Innovative regulatory approaches to reduce sodium consumption: could a cap-and-trade system work?

Nutr Rev. 2008 May;66(5):280-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2008.00033.x.

Abstract

Many regulatory and professional organizations are calling for strict new regulations to reduce sodium consumption on a population basis. New regulations on sodium may have significant public health and economic impacts. This article explores five regulatory options to reduce sodium consumption: 1) maintaining the status quo, 2) improving risk communication and information, 3) revoking generally regarded as safe status of sodium and regulating its use in food products, 4) establishing a sodium tax, and 5) establishing a market-based, cap-and-trade system for sodium that builds on similar approaches in environmental regulatory policy. Cap-and-trade may be a promising regulatory option for sodium and other ingredients.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Commerce / standards*
  • Humans
  • Legislation, Food*
  • Nutrition Policy*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Risk Factors
  • Sodium, Dietary / administration & dosage*
  • Sodium, Dietary / adverse effects*
  • United States

Substances

  • Sodium, Dietary