On average, an adult in Bangladesh consumes about 9 grams of salt per day, which is nearly double the amount recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
According to experts, approximately 24,000 people die in the country every year due to excessive salt intake.
They said that through coordinated initiatives involving individual awareness alongside food producers and regulatory policymakers, the risk of various non-communicable diseases, including heart disease and stroke, can be significantly reduced.
These observations were made on Thursday at a public awareness seminar organised by the Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, with technical assistance from the National Heart Foundation Hospital and Research Institute, marking World Salt Awareness Week 2026.
Faruq Ahmed, Director General of the National Consumer Rights Protection Department, attended the event as the chief guest.
He said excessive salt consumption has now become a silent public health threat. The overuse of salt in food is unknowingly increasing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and strokes.
He further said that to ensure safe and healthy food, it is essential to clearly state accurate nutritional information on food packaging and effectively enforce it.
“Simultaneously, the government and all relevant parties must work in a coordinated manner to increase public awareness, strengthen food labelling systems, and promote healthy eating habits,” he added.
The seminar was chaired by Md Anwarul Islam Sarkar, Chairman of the Bangladesh Safe Food Authority. Professor Dr Mohammad Shoaib, Member (Food Industry and Production) of the Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, delivered the welcome address.
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