Scientists have reported an excess of salt in popular takeaway dishes

Popular takeaway dishes often contain more salt than stated on the menu, and in some cases exceed the daily intake rate in one meal. This is the conclusion reached by scientists at the University of Reading. This was reported on January 21 in a study published in the journal PLOS One.

The authors analyzed 39 takeaway dishes purchased in 23 Reading establishments, including large chain restaurants and independent outlets. According to the results, 47% of the dishes with the indicated salt level actually contained more salt than was stated. The most frequent discrepancies were recorded in pasta dishes, pizza and curry.

However, not all restaurants indicated the salt content on the menu. In some cases, a portion from independent establishments contained more than 10 g of salt, while the recommended daily allowance for an adult is 6 g.

The head of the study, Professor Gunther Kuehnle of the University of Reading, noted that the exact indication of salt in the menu is difficult due to differences in formulation, ingredients and portion size. According to him, without laboratory measurements, the values in the menu are often indicative, and the consumer cannot actually know how much salt is added to the dish.

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The study also showed significant differences between the categories of dishes. Meat pizzas had the highest salt concentration, with an average of 1.6 g per 100 g of product. Pastas proved to be the leaders in terms of salt per serving — an average of 7.2 g, and in one case the figure reached 11.2 g. In curry dishes, the salt level ranged from 2.3 to 9.4 g.

The authors emphasize that, despite the reduction of salt in industrial products, eating out remains a significant source of excess consumption. The World Health Organization estimates that excess salt is associated with 1.8 million deaths worldwide each year.

Medical Xpress magazine reported on December 4 that scientists have linked sleep quality to intestinal health. It is noted that the gut microbiome plays an important role in regulating sleep quality, mood, and overall well-being. When it is in balance and in a healthy state, sleep tends to get better, and if disturbed, a person often experiences insomnia, restless nights, and poor sleep cycles.

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