Discrepancy in salt content on food labels

The New Zealand Food Safety Authority commissioned the Environmental and Science Research study of the random testing for label compliance, in order to determine the amount of salt obtained by New Zealanders from processed foods. This was carried out as a part of a transtasman project to fight iodine deficiency. Preventable brain damage in children and goiter are caused by deficiency of iodine.

Decreasing salt consumption and the popularity of rock and sea salts have resulted in marked decrease of iodised salt intake. Transtasman food regulator Food Standards Australia New Zealand intends to require iodised salt to be used in baked cereal products.

Responding to the test results, Green Party spokeswoman Sue Kedgley said: "Look, if it was 2 per cent over, who would care? But 50 per cent over? How can it be so wrong?"

Source: Medindia
GYT