Salt intake, particularly in processed foods, is of concern to me and my Department especially as salt intake is associated with raised blood pressure. Today's lifestyle for many families means increased dependency on convenience foods which can be high in salt. Given our high rate of heart disease in Ireland, salt intake is an issue I am addressing in the implementation of the cardiovascular health strategy – Building Healthier Hearts.
The healthy eating guidelines, developed by the health promotion unit of my Department, highlight that the diet of the Irish population should be based on fresh foods as far as possible. They also highlight the importance of tasting food before adding seasonings and recommend herbs and spices, including pepper, for flavour enhancement. The guidelines state that "reliance on salt to flavour food is not recommended."