The Nigerian government plans to formulate a policy to reduce sodium content in the national food chain and also determine the development of mandatory sodium limits in processed foods.
The Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Daju Kachollom, said this during the inauguration and inception workshop of the National Sodium Reduction Technical Working Group in Abuja on Tuesday.
Sodium which is an essential nutrient for maintenance of body plasma volume, acid-base balance, transmission of nerve impulse and normal cell function is however a source of concern as the dietary sodium consumption which is dependent on cultural and dietary habits of citizens has led to over consumption.
The W.H.O. recommends a reduction of intake of sodium by 30% by the year 2025, but current findings reveal that an average adult consumes much sodium per day, which is higher than the WHO recommendation.
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The meeting of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare officials, together with development partners is targeted at formulating policies and reviewing national strategies with the aim of creating a conducive environment for citizens to consume adequate quantities of safe and nutritious foods with appropriate salt content and improve dietary habits.
The Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Daju Kachollom, agreed that reducing salt intake is one of the most effective measures to improve health and minimize the burden of non-communicable diseases in the country.
The technical working group has been mandated to ensure that Industries, small and medium sized food products enterprises and local food vendors are closely monitored and sensitized to ensure compliance with clearly defined national food safety standards.
(Editor: Ken Eseni)
