Britons have cut their salt consumption in the last decade – but not by enough, according to public health experts.
The reduction in salt intake is 9% – from 8.8 grams a day in 2005 to 8 grams a day, according to the findings of Public Health England’s latest survey.
The agency says adults should consume no more than 6 grams of salt daily.
The findings come from samples provided by 689 adults in 2014.
Chief nutritionist Dr Alison Tedstone said: “Our analysis makes clear that there is a steady downward trend in salt consumption. While people are having less salt than 10 years ago, we are still eating a third more than we should."
She added: "The majority of the salt we eat is in everyday foods so it’s important to check labels and choose lower salt options.
"Many manufacturers and retailers have significantly reduced the salt levels in everyday foods. However, more needs to be done, especially by restaurants, cafes and takeaways.”
But the campaign group Campaign for Action on Salt and Health said there had been little improvement since 2011 – when daily salt levels stood at 8.1 grams a day. Public Health England says the 2011 level was 8.5.
A spokesman said: "Unhealthy food supplied by the food industry is now the biggest cause of death and ill health in the UK. CASH calls for the government to immediately set up an independent agency responsible for nutrition to stop adding large and unnecessary amounts of salt, fat and sugar to our food."
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