KMA bans open display of salt in eateries to curb hypertension
The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) has passed a resolution banning the open display of salt in food establishments across the city in a bid to reduce excessive salt consumption and tackle rising cases of hypertension among residents.Herbs & Spices
In a statement issued on Friday, March 13, the Assembly said the decision was approved during its sitting on December 18, 2025, and targets a common practice in restaurants, chop bars and other eateries where salt is often placed on dining tables for customers to add to their meals.
According to the KMA, the practice encourages people to consume more salt than necessary, even after meals have already been prepared with salt during cooking.
The resolution follows an observational study conducted in 156 food service establishments across the metropolis. The study revealed that 62% of the establishments openly displayed salt on tables or counters, allowing customers to add extra salt to their food, and that chop bars recorded the highest prevalence of the practice.
The Assembly further noted that none of the establishments assessed displayed health advisories on salt consumption, describing it as a missed opportunity to educate the public on the health risks associated with excessive salt intake.
“Hypertension is no longer a distant health concern; it is affecting families and productive lives across Kumasi. By addressing everyday risk factors such as the routine availability of salt on dining tables, we are taking a practical and preventive step to protect the health of our residents.Restaurants
“This resolution reflects our resolve to create healthier food environments for all,” the statement said.
The KMA stated that implementation of the resolution will commence this year, with plans to roll out public education campaigns, engage food service operators, and incorporate salt-reduction measures into routine environmental health inspections.
The Assembly said the interventions are aimed at ensuring compliance among food vendors while promoting sustained behavioural change to support healthier lifestyles.
Source: citinewsroom.com