Lower-sodium salt can supply less sodium than regular table salt when you use the same weight. Many products replace some sodium chloride with potassium chloride. Check the ingredient list and compare the sodium figures on an equal-weight basis.
If you have kidney disease, have been told to limit potassium or take medicines that can raise potassium, check with your healthcare team before switching to a potassium-based salt substitute. When cooking for several people, check whether it suits everyone who will eat the food.
- Read both sodium and potassium information where declared.
- Compare the same weight and measure what goes into the dish.
- Check whether a potassium-based substitute is appropriate for your household.
- Account for sauces and seasonings as well as table salt.
In this guide
Section 1 of 5
Read what the salt contains
HealthHub distinguishes regular table salt from lower-sodium options, which may replace some sodium chloride with potassium chloride. The amount replaced depends on the product. Check the ingredients, nutrition figures and any caution on the package. HealthHub’s guide to lower-sodium salt
| What you want to know | What to check |
|---|---|
| Does it have less sodium? | Milligrams per gram or per 100 g on a common basis |
| Is potassium used? | Ingredients and any declared potassium amount |
| Is it suitable for the household? | Package cautions and individual healthcare guidance |
| How much goes into dinner? | The amount measured and the number of portions |
| What else contributes sodium? | Stock, sauces and seasoned ingredients |
Section 2 of 5
Calculate the effect on a whole dish
Suppose one salt provides 400 mg of sodium per gram and another 250 mg per gram. Two grams would contribute 800 mg or 500 mg respectively. In four equal portions, that is 200 mg or 125 mg per portion from the salt alone. These figures are illustrative. Use the numbers on your actual product and include other ingredients separately.
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Section 3 of 5
Check potassium before switching
Some health conditions affect the body’s ability to clear potassium. HealthHub advises people with conditions that impair potassium excretion, such as late-stage chronic kidney disease, to seek professional advice before using potassium salt. Ask your clinician or pharmacist if you are unsure whether your medicines or care plan affect this choice. Keep the package available so they can see the exact ingredients.
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Section 4 of 5
Reduce sodium even if you keep your usual salt
Measure the salt you currently add and check the other seasonings in the recipe. Try a smaller amount in a dish you know, or use garlic, ginger, herbs or a little acidity where it fits. If stock, soy sauce or a prepared paste is already in the pan, consider whether you need to add table salt as well. HealthHub’s guide to reducing sodium
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Section 5 of 5
Lower-sodium salt questions
Does lower-sodium mean sodium-free?
Read the sodium amount. A lower amount can still contribute sodium to the dish.
Can I use more because it is lower in sodium?
Using more changes how much sodium you add and can also add potassium. Measure the amount you need.
Is it suitable for everyone?
Check with a healthcare professional if your condition, medicines or care plan affect potassium.