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Salt Reduction in Thailand

November 2017

Overview

Low Salt Thailand Network

Excessive salt consumption kills an estimated 2.5 million people worldwide. WHO recommends consumption of less than 5 grams of salt per day in order to improve population health.

Thais consume an average of 10.8 grams of salt per day (over 4,000 milligrams of sodium). This rate is more than double the recommended daily amount of salt. The main sources of salt derive from salt added during cooking, packaged food, and street food.

In line with global targets to reduce the prevalence of raised blood pressure by 25% by 2025, Thailand has set ambitious goals in order to achieve a 30% reduction in population intake of salt/sodium. The Ministry of Public Health has recently implemented the 2016-2025 Salt and Sodium Reduction Policy. The action plan focuses on labelling, legislation, product reformulation, and research initiatives that encourage the production and consumption of foods with reduced sodium content, and prioritize consumer education to ensure effective implementation.