Irish people are consuming far too much salt in their food and are increasing the risk of death through cardiovascular disease and stroke, according to a new report.
The report was published by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland this morning.
It reveals that the average Irish adult consumes 10g of salt per day, compared to the recommended dietary allowance of 4g.
The authority is now calling on the public, the food industry and the Government to take pro-active steps and reduce the population's salt intake at least to an average of 6g a day.
The report reveals that while up to 20% of a person's daily salt intake is added in the home at the kitchen table, over half of the daily salt intake is through two food groups - meat and fish, and bread.
The Irish Heart Foundation has welcomed the report. It says one of the easiest and most practical ways to reduce salt intake is to reduce the concentration of salt in processed and convenience foods.
