Why should the food industry be concerned with generalized statements regarding sodium found in processed foods?
According to Al Kirchner, Ocean’s Flavor CEO, the government, food industry and consumers have been greatly concerned with the sodium content in their foods, and rightly so. “Because of the link between high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney problems, edema, stroke, gastric cancer and osteoporosis that can be caused by high sodium intake, sea salt has become the best choice for flavor and needed minerals,” he said. However, Ocean’s Flavor contends these types of indiscriminate condemnations—claiming no enhanced health benefit to natural sea salt—cause confusion for consumers when the “public interest” would imply comprehensible, current and clear information. Q. What can food processors and the food industry do to make sure accurate, up-to-date and clear information is offered? A. Kirchner encourages the food industry to respond—often and consistently. “Our top-quality customers—the nation’s biggest and best food producers—are diligent and earnest in leading the revolution for a mo
