The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has issued an important warning to the public about foods with hidden salt. According to the ministry, many people in the UAE are consuming unhealthy amounts of salt without even realizing it—because the salt is hidden in common everyday foods.
This warning is part of a national campaign to reduce salt intake and protect public health. The ministry aims to raise awareness about the dangers of high salt consumption, which is a major cause of health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
What Are Foods With Hidden Salt?
Foods with hidden salt are items that may not taste salty but still contain high amounts of sodium. These foods are often processed or packaged and are part of many people’s regular diets.
Some of the most common examples include:
- Bread and bakery products
- Breakfast cereals
- Canned soups
- Sauces and salad dressings
- Frozen ready-to-eat meals
- Cheese and processed meats
- Potato chips and snacks
These foods may seem harmless, but they can significantly increase your daily salt intake. The ministry advises people to read food labels carefully and check sodium content before purchasing or consuming packaged products.
Why Too Much Salt Is a Silent Threat
Eating too much salt increases the amount of sodium in your body, which can lead to serious health issues. Health experts call salt a “silent killer” because the effects are not always felt right away, but over time, it can lead to life-threatening diseases.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), adults should not consume more than 5 grams of salt per day, which is about one teaspoon. However, many people in the UAE consume nearly double that amount—mostly from foods with hidden salt.
UAE’s National Strategy to Reduce Salt Intake
The Ministry of Health is not just warning people—it is taking real steps to solve the problem. As part of its national health strategy, the UAE government is working on several key actions:
- Educating the public through awareness campaigns
- Asking food manufacturers to reduce salt content in packaged goods
- Promoting clear food labeling to show salt levels
- Encouraging restaurants to offer low-salt options
This national strategy is in line with the UAE’s goal to reduce non-communicable diseases and improve the overall health of its citizens.
What Can You Do to Avoid Foods With Hidden Salt?
If you’re worried about salt in your diet, here are a few easy things you can do:
- Read food labels: Always check the sodium content, especially in packaged foods.
- Choose fresh food: Cook meals at home using fresh ingredients instead of processed items.
- Use herbs and spices: Add flavor with natural seasonings instead of salt.
- Avoid salty snacks: Replace chips and crackers with fruits, nuts, or yogurt.
- Ask when eating out: Request low-sodium options when dining at restaurants.
By making small changes, you can lower your salt intake and protect your health in the long run.
Children and Salt: A Growing Concern
The ministry has also highlighted the issue of hidden salt in children’s diets. Many popular kids’ snacks and ready meals are high in sodium. Over time, this can affect their blood pressure and increase the risk of obesity.
Parents are being urged to pay extra attention to their children’s food choices. Experts recommend giving kids more fresh fruits and vegetables, preparing home-cooked meals, and reducing their intake of salty snacks and fast food.
The Food Industry’s Role in Fighting Hidden Salt
Reducing foods with hidden salt is not only a consumer responsibility—it’s also something food companies must take seriously. The UAE government has been working with food producers and retailers to encourage reformulation of products with high salt levels.
Some brands in the UAE have already responded by:
- Lowering salt levels in popular items
- Printing clearer labels on packages
- Promoting their “low sodium” ranges
The ministry says this is a positive sign, but more needs to be done to make healthy choices easier for consumers.
What Experts Say About the Hidden Salt Problem
Health professionals in the UAE support the ministry’s campaign. Many doctors believe that better awareness and education are key to reducing salt-related illnesses.
Nutritionist Dr. Rasha Al Suwaidi says:
“People are often surprised to learn where their salt is coming from. It’s not always from the salt shaker. Bread, sauces, and even desserts can contain hidden sodium. The key is to stay informed and read labels.”
A Wake-Up Call for Everyone
The warning from the UAE Ministry is a wake-up call for residents to rethink their daily food choices. Whether you’re shopping for groceries or eating at a restaurant, it’s important to be aware of foods with hidden salt.
You don’t have to cut salt completely from your diet. Salt is necessary for the body—but only in small amounts. The real danger lies in consuming too much without knowing, especially through processed and packaged food.
Next Steps in the UAE’s Salt Awareness Drive
This latest warning is part of a larger movement to create a healthier nation. The Ministry of Health plans to roll out more public awareness campaigns in schools, malls, and on social media. The goal is to make people think twice before choosing salty foods and to empower them with knowledge.
In the coming months, residents can expect:
- New workshops and events in community centers
- More healthy food options in school cafeterias
- Public service announcements on TV and online
- Collaborations with influencers to spread the message
Final Thoughts: Small Choices Make a Big Difference
The issue of foods with hidden salt may not seem serious at first, but it can lead to big health problems over time. The UAE government is taking strong steps to inform and protect the public, but real change starts with each of us.
Next time you go shopping or plan a meal, take a moment to think about the salt you might not see. With better choices and more awareness, everyone in the UAE can lead a healthier, longer life.
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