A stark new warning has been issued to residents across the UAE after a national nutrition survey revealed that nearly 96 per cent of people consume more salt than recommended, putting millions at higher risk of heart disease, strokes and other long-term health complications.
According to the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s National Nutrition Survey 2024–2025, most adults exceed the World Health Organisation’s recommended daily limit of less than 5 grams of salt, often without realising it. Health experts say excessive sodium intake has quietly become one of the country’s most serious public health concerns.
Salt, they warn, is no longer just what people sprinkle on meals — it is deeply embedded in everyday foods such as bread, bakery items, sauces and processed products, making it easy to consume dangerous amounts unintentionally.
Government explores action, food reformulation on the table
Health authorities are now exploring strategies to help families reduce salt intake nationwide. While a salt tax similar to the sugar tax is considered unlikely at this stage, officials are looking at food reformulation, encouraging manufacturers to lower sodium levels in commonly consumed products by setting clear thresholds.
Experts say this approach could quietly but effectively improve public health by making everyday foods safer without requiring major lifestyle changes.
Why too much salt is dangerous
Medical professionals stress that high salt consumption is closely linked to high blood pressure, one of the leading causes of heart attacks and strokes.
“Excess sodium causes the body to retain water, increasing blood pressure and placing strain on the heart and kidneys,” said Dr Doaa Zaki, specialist in family medicine at Medcare Medical Centre in Mirdif, Dubai.
“Over time, this can lead to serious cardiovascular complications. The challenge is that high blood pressure often develops without symptoms, so many people are unaware of the damage until it’s too late.”
She added that regularly eaten foods such as bread and processed items can quietly push sodium intake far beyond safe levels, even when individual portions seem small.
Simple steps can make a big difference
Doctors say reducing salt intake does not require extreme diets. Small, practical changes can significantly lower health risks.
“Choosing fresh, minimally processed foods, reading nutrition labels carefully and reducing frequent consumption of fast food can help families regain control over their salt intake,” Dr Zaki said.
She also recommended replacing salt with herbs, spices and natural flavourings during cooking, a shift that allows taste buds to adapt while preserving flavour.
“These simple changes, combined with regular exercise and routine health screenings, can greatly improve long-term health outcomes,” she added.
Wider dietary concerns highlighted
The survey also uncovered broader dietary challenges. It found that 56 per cent of adults consume excessive fat, while 27 per cent drink sweetened soft drinks every day.
Child health figures were equally concerning, showing that 16 per cent of children aged six to 17 are obese, along with 2 per cent of children under five — reinforcing the need for early dietary intervention.
Hidden salt in ‘healthy’ foods
Health experts warn that salt often hides in foods marketed as healthy, including wholegrain bread and vegan meals.
A report by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that bread products, cold cuts, pizza and poultry are among the biggest contributors to sodium intake. Just 10 common food categories account for nearly half of the recommended daily sodium limit.
Foods high in hidden salt
- Processed meats such as cold cuts, bacon and sausages
- Bread and bakery products, including wholegrain varieties
- Soups and canned foods preserved with sodium
- Condiments and sauces like ketchup, soy sauce and dressings
- Cheese, especially cheddar, feta and processed varieties
- Frozen and packaged meals
- Breakfast cereals, crisps, crackers and pretzels
How to reduce hidden salt
- Check labels and choose “low sodium” or “no added salt” options
- Rinse canned foods like beans and vegetables before use
- Cook fresh using herbs, spices, garlic and citrus instead of salt
As the UAE intensifies its focus on preventive healthcare, doctors say cutting salt is one of the simplest — yet most powerful — steps residents can take to protect their hearts and improve long-term wellbeing.
