Thesis Title:
How to increase the use and acceptability of low-sodium salts: a mixed-methods implementation and policy study.
Thesis Abstract:
This doctoral research examines how the UK can increase the safe, acceptable and equitable use of low-sodium salt substitutes (LSSS) as part of wider salt-reduction policy. Excess salt intake is a major contributor to raised blood pressure and cardiovascular disease. Progress in UK salt reduction through reformulation of recipes has stalled but LSSS, which partially replace sodium chloride with potassium chloride, offer a promising complementary strategy. Their population impact depends on policy alignment, product availability, affordability, public understanding, business acceptability and implementation routes across the food system.
Using systems-thinking and translational research approaches, the project will map the UK LSSS landscape through policy and academic activity analysis, a product survey, public surveys and interviews with food businesses. It will test potential mechanisms to increase use and acceptability, including pilot studies to explore procurement, fiscal, and out-of-home food policy levers. Finally, the research will model the potential health and economic impact of wider LSSS adoption using UK dietary, demographic, health and cost data, in collaboration with The George Institute for Global Health in Sydney. The findings aim to inform UK policy and implementation and contribute to global salt-reduction efforts.
Primary Supervisor:
Dr Kawther Hashem