Changing the salt used in food could prevent millions of deaths worldwide, according to research published in Nature Health. The alternative replaces some sodium chloride (ordinary salt) with potassium chloride.

But this is not a swap everyone should make without checking first.

What the Research Found

Researchers modelled the effects of replacing regular salt with a blend containing 75% sodium chloride and 25% potassium chloride.

They estimated that a worldwide switch could prevent approximately 2.96 million deaths annually from cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease. That scenario includes salt in processed and restaurant foods, as well as home cooking. These are projections, not deaths already prevented.

The researchers’ institution estimates about 6,761 deaths could be prevented annually in South Africa under the full-replacement scenario. The outcome would depend on implementation and the model’s assumptions. 

Why Use Potassium-Enriched Salt?

Reducing sodium helps lower blood pressure. Potassium-containing substitutes let you reduce sodium while keeping a salty flavour.

WHO conditionally recommends these substitutes for suitable adults who choose to use table salt. Its guidance draws on clinical trials showing reductions in blood pressure.

It is still important to use less salt overall. A substitute is not permission to add more.

Who Should Check Before Switching?

Too much potassium in the blood can be dangerous, particularly when the body cannot remove it effectively.

Do not switch without professional advice if you:

• Have kidney disease or have been advised to limit potassium.
• Take potassium supplements.
• Take medicines that can raise potassium, including potassium-sparing diuretics.

WHO’s recommendation excludes people with impaired potassium excretion. It also does not extend to pregnant women or children. Consider everyone eating a shared meal before changing the household salt. 

If you take regular medication or are unsure about your kidney health, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether the product is suitable. Keep taking prescribed treatment.

Practical Changes You Can Make

Whether or not a substitute suits you, reducing sodium remains useful.

• Check the ingredients: Look for potassium chloride when identifying a potassium-enriched product.
• Compare sodium labels: Compare similar foods using the same quantity, usually per 100 g.
• Use herbs and spices: Build flavour without automatically adding salt.
• Watch sauces and seasonings: Stock cubes, instant products and commercial sauces can contribute sodium.
• Taste before adding: Keep the salt shaker off the table.
• Check for iodine: WHO recommends that salt consumed should be iodised. 

WHO recommends adults consume less than 5 g of salt daily from all sources, equivalent to less than 2 g of sodium. This includes salt already present in food, not just what you add.

The Bottom Line

A potassium-enriched substitute may be useful for suitable adults. Before buying one, check its ingredients and whether it fits your health needs and medication.

Using less salt and choosing lower-sodium foods remain practical options when a substitute is unsuitable.