Saltfree

Saltfree is a term used to describe products, diets, and processes that are free from added salt (sodium chloride) or markedly reduced in sodium content. The usage spans food labeling, nutrition guidance, and consumer goods. Because saltiness is primarily determined by sodium, saltfree products aim to minimize taste and health concerns associated with sodium intake. The term is not a single standardized designation, and its meaning can vary by jurisdiction and product category.

In food labeling, salt-free is commonly used for marketing, but regulatory definitions vary. In the United States, the FDA defines sodium-free as containing 5 mg or less sodium per serving; salt-free is often treated as synonymous but is not a formal label; no salt added means no salt was added during processing, though the product may contain naturally occurring sodium. Consumers should check the Nutrition Facts panel for actual sodium content.

Health context: Saltfree products are often recommended for people managing hypertension, heart disease, or kidney disease, or for general populations seeking to limit sodium intake. Nutritionists emphasize that even saltfree products can contain other minerals that affect taste or health, and that overall diet matters.

Other uses include salt-free water conditioning technologies that reduce or eliminate the need for sodium-based regeneration, and culinary approaches such as using salt substitutes or herbs to maintain flavor while avoiding added salt.