Sodium 101

Not sure about the different salts, or how to best store your table salt? Here’s your 101 with all you need to know

What is Sodium? A critical electrolyte for good health found in processed foods as well as table salt.

How to Buy: mostly in paperboard containers as well as glass containers for the unrefined varieties.

How to Read the Label: Sodium is in nearly every canned or packaged food product, so check the per-serving amount, particularly in breads, canned vegetables, beans, and soups; deli and lunch meats; processed cheeses; frozen prepared foods, including pizzas, and savory snacks like pretzels and potato chips. Yeast breads and dairy can contain high amounts of sodium.

Choices: Granulated iodized is the most common; kosher rock, or sea salts have a milder flavor, and many come from France or the Himalayas, and range from dull white to dark gray or pink; colors are due to trace minerals.

How to Use: Sparingly! Sprinkle salt lightly as a finishing and season instead with fresh or dried herbs, garlic and onions, or chili to perk up your foods. Always taste your food before you salt it!

How to Store: in a cool dry cupboard away from heat or light.

Health Benefits: We all need salt, but less than 2,300 mg or 1,500 mg per day depending on what the Dr. has ordered!

Smarter Shopping: Instead of a salt shaker, use a tiny spoon so you can visualize the amount used.

Click here for more info on sodium.

For more 101s download our Smarter Shopping App