Karnataka launches action plan to cut salt intake by 30% by 2030

Karnataka unveiled a comprehensive state action plan on Tuesday, September 22, aiming to slash population salt intake by 30% by 2030 and encourage healthier dietary habits. The Karnataka State Multisectoral Action Plan targets salt consumption reduction across households, food consumed outside homes, and processed and packaged foods.

To promote healthier dietary choices and bolster dietary counseling within the health system, the plan proposes measures to curb the use of discretionary salt, urge food manufacturers to reduce salt in processed products, and raise awareness about nutritious diets. The initiative aligns Karnataka's initiatives with India's global objective of reducing salt intake by 30% by 2030 and adheres to the World Health Organisation's recommendation of less than five grams of salt per person per day.

Health Minister U.T. Khader inaugurated the plan at a Technical Advisory Group meeting at Vidhana Soudha, alongside former Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and Rajya Sabha member Mansoor Ali Khan. The Technical Advisory Group, chaired by Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences Vice-Chancellor Bhagavan B.C., comprises experts and representatives from various sectors, including health departments, research institutions, academic bodies, and public health organizations.

The minister emphasized the plan's alignment with existing initiatives, such as salt-reduction measures under PM POSHAN, dietary counseling through Gruha Arogya, and non-communicable disease prevention programs. Karnataka has previously implemented policies targeting high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt foods, laying the groundwork for enhancing healthier food environments.