Cargill To Unveil New Method To Reduce Sodium In Foods, Beverages

Cargill will present new SaltWise sodium reduction system at the Institute of Food Technologist (IFT) Food Expo, July 18-20 in Chicago. The company claims that the new sodium reduction system is a combination of ingredients that provides a salty taste while reducing sodium content from 25% to 50%, and also providing food manufacturers with the functionality of salt.

The company will also unveil a reduced sodium tortilla made with the new sodium reduction system.

According to Janice Johnson, food applications leader for Cargill Salt, SaltWise sodium reduction system addresses two major technical challenges that food and beverage manufacturers face: the first challenge is reducing the sodium content without affecting the taste; the second challenge is maintaining the texture, functionality and shelf-stability that salt provides.

Mr Johnson noted that the SaltWise sodium reduction system takes a holistic approach to sodium reduction.

She added: With the SaltWise sodium reduction system, manufacturers have a new way to change how people think about reduced-salt foods. The tortilla we're showcasing at IFT is just one example of how we can help our customers innovate to develop successful, great-tasting products with less sodium.

Carlos Rodriguez, marketing manager for Cargill Salt, said: Sodium, which is mostly obtained through salt, is one of many essential nutrients that our bodies need to function properly.

As with many foods we like, salt is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle that includes exercise. However, according to the government's health study, consumers are ingesting sodium levels above the daily maximum amount recommended by the current 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

Cargill is an international producer and marketer of food, agricultural, financial and industrial products and services. The privately held company employs 138,000 people in 67 countries.