Sodium content in processed foods in Argentina: compliance with the national law

摘要: Background: Despite the body of evidence that documents unfavorable effects excessive sodium consumption on blood pressure and cardiovascular health, public health efforts to decrease have been limited a few countries. Argentina is first country in Latin America regulate content processed foods by means national law. The objective this cross-sectional quantitative study provide baseline comparison against reduction targets set law before its entry into force. Methods: Data were collected February 2014 leading supermarket chain located Buenos Aires. Nutrient data from package labels analysed for 1,320 products within 14 food groups during period. To compare concentration levels with established maximum we matched included resulting total 292 products. analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20 software. Results: Food highest median sauces spreads (866.7 mg/100 g), meat (750 g) snack (644 g). Categories appetizers (1,415 sausages (1,050 ready-made meals (940.7 We also found large variability same categories. Products correspond 22.1% (n=292) surveyed foods. From 18 groups, 15 showed values below targets. exceeding 15.1% (n=44) analysis. Conclusions: This determine concentrations standards. Upon completion analysis, achieved most Thus, introduction further reductions existing establishment all relevant product categories not should be considered as next steps process.