Sodium chloride, commonly known as salt, can be a naturally occurring mineral or added to foods or can serve as a nutrient or to add taste.

Sodium Chloride

Found In

Sodium chloride is authorized for use in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.

Generally recognized as safe for intended uses. (GRAS)

In 2024, FDA expanded its 2021 voluntary sodium reduction targets in foods.

In 2019, dietary reference intakes for sodium were assessed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

In 1993, FDA supported a health claim for lower sodium and reduced risk of hypertension.

In 1979, health aspects of sodium chloride as a food ingredient were evaluated.

FDA describes (a, b) nutrition facts labeling requirements.

Recommended in moderation.

In 2019, EFSA set dietary reference values for both sodium and chloride.

In 2008, Europe embarked on its salt/sodium reduction initiative.

Safe for intended uses.

In 2012, WHO issued its guidelines on sodium in the general population.

Recommended in moderation.

In 2019, dietary reference intakes for sodium were assessed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

This page was last updated on 6/30/2025.