Health professionals and advocates have cautioned that high sodium consumption is the primary risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular issues, leading to an increase in stroke incidents and exacerbating other non-communicable illnesses.
The specialists also voiced worries that shoppers do not have access to clear and accurate nutritional data regarding sodium to help manage their consumption across various food types, especially since numerous packaged food items surpass safe sodium limits for human intake.
They urged the Nigerian government to speed up the implementation of transparent front-of-pack warning labels to assist consumers in making informed food choices.
The request was issued during a media roundtable in Abuja, where the Network for Health Equity and Development (NHED), in collaboration with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator and Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, gathered journalists to review the National Sodium Reduction Guidelines and the dangers associated with high-salt diets.
“Elevated sodium levels in the blood increase blood pressure and worsen cardiovascular conditions,” stated Dr. Joseph Ekiyor, an emergency room doctor and health researcher.
Dr. Ekiyor explained that the appeal is not for the total removal of salt from diets, but rather for a more moderate approach to consumption. “We’re not suggesting to steer clear of it entirely.” Salt is crucial for the body, but decrease the amount you’re consuming now.
His stance is supported by information from the World Health Organization, WHO, which suggests that approximately 1.6 million lives could be preserved worldwide annually if sodium consumption were decreased by at least 30 percent.
“Packaged and commercially made foods, ranging from bread to drinks, frequently have concealed sodium.” Beer includes sodium additives such as sodium benzoate. “People must be aware of this,” Ekiyor emphasized.
Food scientist John Tehinse argued for sodium reduction and front-of-pack warning labels, stating that the government should be responsible for providing this information to the public.
“The answer begins with policy, supported by political determination,” he stated. “Sustained awareness is essential, and the media has an important part to fulfill.”
He pointed out that producers are now required to function within safe boundaries and provide front-of-pack warning labels to educate Nigerians about the nutrient composition of food items, enabling them to quickly recognize products high in sugar and salt.
Tehinse, a participant in the Nigerian Sodium Reduction Technical Working Group, mentioned that the goal is to cut down salt in processed foods by 15 percent by 2026 and by 30 percent by 2030.
“We have recognized 34 key food categories and are collaborating with industries to modify products to decrease salt levels.” We examined the local dietary practices, particularly focusing on bread, bacon, and processed meats that are commonly consumed by Nigerians. “We’re not suggesting you stop consuming them, but be mindful,” Tehinse stated.
Reiterating the warning, Dr. Emmanuel Sokpo, the Country Director of NHED, cautioned that the Nigerian food landscape is filled with hidden dangers.
“The media should highlight these issues, not only for awareness but to advocate for solutions that safeguard the health of Nigerians,” he stated. Joy Amafah, the country coordinator for the Global Health Advocacy Incubator, highlighted the importance of policy intervention to tackle deficiencies in nutrition profile modeling, front-of-pack warning labels, and sodium reduction approaches.
She mentioned that Nigeria’s increase in sodium-related illnesses started when, as a result of modernisation, numerous individuals transitioned from traditional, nutrient-dense diets to ultra-processed foods, leading to a rising incidence of non-communicable diseases.
“We are currently ingesting a greater number of items with low nutritional worth and elevated levels of salt, sugar, and trans fats, propelled by intense advertising.” “The media needs to reveal this,” she stated.
