How Much Salt Is Really in Your Takeaway? Probably More Than You Think.

Key Points:

• A University of Reading study published in PLOS One found that 47% of labeled takeaway foods contain more salt than declared, with some meals exceeding the UK's daily salt limit of 6 grams in a single portion.
• Pasta dishes were the saltiest on average, with some containing up to 11.2 grams of salt, while curries and pizzas also had high salt levels; this discrepancy is due to restaurants estimating salt content without precise measurements.
• Contrary to common belief, fish and chips were among the lowest in salt because salt is typically added by the customer after cooking, highlighting that sauces and preparation methods often hide salt in other dishes.
• Excess salt intake is linked to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, making hidden salt in takeaway meals a significant health concern.
• To reduce salt intake when eating out, consumers are advised to cook at home when possible, request sauces on the side, be cautious of high-salt dishes like pasta and pizza, and treat menu salt figures as rough estimates rather than exact values.