SALT CONTENT IN FOOD

Early day motion 773, tabled 25 February 2003 by David Tredinnick (Conservative). Signed by 53 members.

That this House notes that much of the food aimed at children has increased in salt content in the last 25 years; further notes that the salt content in crisps has almost doubled since 1978, from an average of 540mg per 100g to 1050mg per 100g in 2003; expresses concern that most people, including children, consume about twice the maximum recommended daily intake of salt; observes that babies do not have the capacity to process large quantities of salt which may result in kidney, liver and brain damage; acknowledges that eating high levels of salt is linked to high blood pressure, which is the main cause of strokes, hypertension and a major factor in heart attacks; recognises that it is very difficult to cut back on salt because it is hidden in everyday products such as bread, canned soup and baked beans; believes that lowering the average population salt intake would confer significant public health benefits by contributing to a reduction in the burden of cardiovascular disease; and urges the Government to take steps to bring about a reduction in salt content in food.

Signatures by party: Labour 26, Liberal Democrat 9, Conservative 7, Labour/Co-operative 4, Scottish National Party 3, Plaid Cymru 2, UUP 2.