Nestlé applauds release of draft voluntary sodium reduction goals
World's largest food and beverage company welcomes US FDA's sodium guidance for industry
Nestlé welcomes the voluntary sodium reduction guidelines issued by the US Food and Drug Administration.
These guidelines establish specific goals and aim to support the voluntary, co-ordinated and gradual reduction of sodium across the food supply, including restaurants and food service providers in addition to food manufacturers. In May 2016, Nestlé announced its support for the FDA's pending guidelines and introduced the company's efforts to further reduce sodium.
Nestlé agrees with the FDA that broad adoption of the agency's voluntary recommendations by the food industry can create a meaningful reduction in population sodium intake over time and help consumer taste preferences adjust.
Nestlé has endorsed global targets aligned with the World Health Organization, aimed at helping people consume no more than 2000mg of sodium per day. Given the company's ongoing efforts to improve its portfolio, Nestlé is confident it will be able to fulfil the spirit of the FDA's message within the timeframe proposed. Nestlé looks forward to commenting on the recommendations and hopes this will drive a broader industry dialogue.
According to Paul Grimwood, Chairman and CEO, Nestlé USA: 'Nestlé has been on a journey to reduce sodium across its food portfolio for more than a decade, and with 97% of US households buying Nestlé brands, we have a tremendous opportunity to make an impact on Americans' diets. But one company can't change the whole system. Broad adoption of these recommendations by members of industry will result in an even greater public health impact.'
Nestlé is diligently implementing its sodium reduction efforts to ensure its renovated foods and beverages deliver a stronger nutritional profile without compromising taste.
Recipes are tested with consumer panels and at least 60 out of 100 of participants must prefer the Nestlé products compared with those of our competitors to ensure acceptance. Between 2005 and 2012, the company reduced sodium by 5950 tons or 22.7% in its food portfolio. Since 2013, Nestlé has further reduced sodium content by 970 tons compared with 2012 levels, or 8% towards our objective of a 10% reduction by the end of 2016.
In line with its commitment to Good Food, Good Life, Nestlé aims to lead industry efforts to help ensure people have access to the foods, beverages and information they need to make choices consistent with the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This includes Nestlé Portion Guidance, a voluntary initiative designed to bridge international dietary recommendations (in the form of food guides) and nutrition labelling regulations.