Chances of suffering from a stroke could be reduced by 24 per cent if salt consumption was halved, said Health Minister Joe Cassar.

He highlighted statistics proving the negative effects excessive salt consumption could have on health at an event commemorating Salt Awareness Week.

The theme of this year’s campaign was the link between salt consumption and heart problems.

Taking too much salt can cause high blood pressure, which in turn may result in a stroke.

The World Health Organisation recommends that no more than five grams, or one teaspoon, of salt daily.

Dr Cassar emphasised the importance of curbing salt intake both in cooking and when buying packaged food.

According to a 2002 survey, 47 per cent of Maltese nearly always add salt to their food while cooking, while 24 per cent almost always add salt after cooking.

This year, the ministry launched the Healthy Weight for Life strategy, in which one initiative proposes reducing the salt content in locally produced food. Dr Cassar said it was important to work closely with local industries, as was done with bakers, to lower the amount of salt in bread. The EU has also pledged to lower the consumption of salt by 16 per cent by the end of the year.

The ministry is working together with the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Department to provide free blood pressure checks and BMI tests in health centres.

They are also organising aerobics programmes to promote physical activity within communities.