Few innovations in low/no/ reduced-sodium products

DESPITE increased awareness on the health implications of high sodium in the diet, innovations with “low/no/reducedsodium” claims have seen some decline. Launches of such products fell 5% in 2010- 2011, appearing on just 2% of total food launches in 2011, reported Mintel.

“Manufacturers struggled to find workable salt substitutes, forcing many to rapidly pull them from the market, explained global food and drink analyst Chris Brockman. “Efforts are being made to offer consumers alternatives to sodium. However, existing salt replacements have not caught the imagination of consumers. Consumers are concerned about salt intake, but are not willing to compromise on taste." Europe remains the most active region in terms of new product launches carrying low/no/reduced-sodium claims.