Sodium content in packaged foods and beverages in Argentina in 2024 and policy implications

To analyze the sodium content of packaged foods and beverages sold in Argentina in 2024, evaluate changes since 2022, and assess compliance with national regulations and the Updated Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Regional Sodium Reduction Targets.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted using nutrition label data from 3 915 products collected in April-May 2024 in Buenos Aires supermarkets. Two chains were selected among the six major retailers covering 80% of the national market. Sodium levels were compared against limits established by the National Sodium Reduction Law (866 products) and PAHO regional targets (2 630 products). The 2024 data were compared with a 2022 sample of 3 665 products collected using the same methodology.

Categories with the highest median sodium content included meat and fish condiments (4 417 mg/100 g), appetizers (1 873 mg/100 g), luncheon meat and sausages (1 050 mg/100 g), hard cheese (900 mg/100 g), and dressings (788 mg/100 g). Significant sodium reductions occurred in 11 of 66 categories (16.7%) between 2022 and 2024, including condiments (-9 083 mg/100 g) and bread (-167 mg/100 g). Compliance with the National Law was high; only 5.8% of products exceeded limits, mainly hamburger buns (27.8%) and mayonnaise (22%). Compared to the PAHO targets, 44.5% of products exceeded the 2022 thresholds and 52.5% the 2025 thresholds, with the highest noncompliance in fresh pasta (94.3%) and savory snacks (68-77%).

Updating the National Sodium Reduction Law and strengthening policies are essential to further reduce sodium intake and improve health.