A campaign to encourage people to reduce their salt intake is to be held by the Health Department. Similar campaigns are beingheld across the EU.

The Health Department explained that excessive salt intake contributed to a range of chronic diseases, including high blood pressure – a common condition in Malta.

High salt intake is also associated with obesity, oestoporosis, asthma and stomach cancer.

A Health Interview Survey had shown that 47 percent of respondents said they added salt while cooking, while 24 percent added it to food while eating.

It was important that salt intake was reduced both by the food industry and at home, the Health Department said.

Officials said publicity material will be mailed across Malta and they would alsobe working with industry to reuce salt consumption.