Low Sodium

The term "low sodium" describes a food product that contains a small amount of sodium, a mineral found naturally in foods and often added as salt. It is a nutritional claim made on food labels, rather than an ingredient itself. This claim indicates that the food has been formulated or processed to contain less sodium.

Manufacturers use the "low sodium" claim to market products to consumers who are looking to reduce their sodium intake for health reasons. It highlights a specific nutritional characteristic of the food, such as in processed meats, canned goods, sauces, and snack foods, where sodium content can often be high.

The FDA defines "low sodium" for food labeling purposes as containing 140 milligrams (mg) or less of sodium per serving. The FDA Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg. Consuming too much sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, which is a risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Reducing sodium intake is a common dietary recommendation for overall health.