Overview
- University of Reading scientists reported that 47% of labeled takeaway items contained more salt than menus declared.
- Laboratory analysis of 39 meals from 23 Reading outlets, using ICP-MS, found several single portions meeting or exceeding the UK’s 6g daily salt guideline.
- Pasta dishes averaged 7.2g salt per serving, with one reaching 11.2g; meat pizzas had the highest salt concentration at 1.6g per 100g.
- Curry dishes showed the widest spread, ranging from 2.3g to 9.4g per portion, while fish-and-chip shop chips were relatively low at about 0.2g per serving.
- Authors note the small, regional sample limits generalizability and urge better measurement and surveillance due to public-health and research implications.