|
Knowledge and Awareness Related to Salt in Food among Malaysian Young Adults
|
|
| Author:
|
K.J. MARYAM, N. NANI, A.R. RAHMAN
|
| Abstract:
|
High salt intake increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. Salt reduction efforts include intervention in social awareness and knowledge to the present culture, food choices and availability. The objective of this study was to do a survey on young adults on their awareness and knowledge about salt. A survey with sample size of 310 participants aged between 19-40 years old were done. All participants were asked to answer a set of validated questionnaires on Awareness on Salt (sodium) Intake Questionnaire (ASQ) which was developed based on knowledge, attitude and behaviour (KAB) on salt intake and health. It consisted of nine questions about knowledge and awareness about salt in health and salt intake, the use of food label and the use of table salt in meal. Most of the participants were aware that excess salt could cause adverse effect on health. Two third did not have any idea of the recommended intake of salt per day. More than one third did not know their own personal salt intake but a quarter thought their consumption was less than maximum recommended. 68% did not check or affected by the content of salt in the ingredients and information on salt on the food labels for processed foods and any food while purchasing. In conclusion, awareness and attitude towards reducing salt intake are low despite good knowledge on salt and health. More interventions and consumer education are needed to educate the public on the importance of salt reduction in foods.
|
| Keyword:
|
Salt, World Health Organisation (WHO), Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs).
|
| EOI:
|
-
|
| DOI:
|
https://doi.org/10.31838/ijpr/2020.12.04.155
|
| Download:
|
Request For Article
|
|
|