Overview
- Published January 21, 2026 in PLOS One, researchers analyzed 39 meals from 23 Reading outlets using ICP-MS to verify sodium content.
- Of labeled items, 47% contained more salt than menus declared.
- Several single portions surpassed the UK adult guideline of 6 g of salt per day, with pasta dishes averaging 7.2 g and one reaching 11.2 g.
- Sodium levels varied by dish: meat pizzas had the highest concentration at 1.6 g per 100 g, curries ranged from 2.3 to 9.4 g per dish, and fish-and-chip shop chips were low because salt is added after cooking on request.
- The authors advise treating menu figures as rough guides and highlight implications for consumer advice and nutrition research given salt’s established health risks.