NAFDAC warns Nigerians about rising hypertension linked to high salt intake from processed foods

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has expressed concerns regarding excessive sodium consumption in Nigeria and its connection to the growing prevalence of hypertension, stroke, and other non-communicable diseases.

At a stakeholders’ meeting discussing the draft “Reduction of Sodium in Pre-Packaged Foods Regulations 2026,” Director-General Mojisola Adeyeye highlighted high salt consumption as a significant and preventable health hazard.

She referenced a World Health Organization guideline recommending reduced sodium intake as an effective strategy to lower premature deaths from lifestyle-related illnesses.

NAFDAC representative Eva Edwards noted that Nigerians currently consume about 10 grams of salt daily, nearly twice the WHO’s recommended maximum of 5 grams, with national averages ranging from 2.85 to 10 grams.

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Experts from the University of Abuja’s Cardiovascular Unit cautioned that excessive sodium intake is closely associated with hypertension, kidney failure, heart disease, and stroke, with non-communicable diseases now accounting for roughly 29% of deaths in Nigeria.

NAFDAC attributed this trend to the increased consumption of processed and packaged foods, particularly in urban areas.

In response, the agency has proposed regulations to establish sodium limits for specific foods, enhance labeling clarity, and encourage gradual reformulation by manufacturers. The initiative starts with a 15% sodium reduction, aiming to meet the WHO target of a 30% global decrease by 2030.

Civil society organizations, including Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa and Network for Health Equity and Development, have endorsed this initiative, calling for prompt action.

Adeyeye emphasized the need for collaboration from both the industry and consumers, stating that stakeholder feedback will be considered before the draft is submitted for approval and publication.