Salt warnings on menus prompt diners to rethink high-salt meal choices, study finds

The latest research published in The Lancet Public Health has shed light on the effectiveness of salt warning labels on restaurant menus in influencing consumer behavior towards healthier choices. Led by Dr. Rebecca Evans at the University of Liverpool, the study conducted online and real-world randomized controlled trials to evaluate the impact of menu labeling as a public health strategy.

The study, titled “Salt warning labels in the out-of-home food sector: online and real-world randomized controlled trials,” marks the first of its kind in the UK and provides valuable insights into the potential of menu labeling in curbing excessive salt intake. Dr. Evans emphasized the importance of such interventions in improving population health, especially given the detrimental effects of high salt consumption on diet-related diseases.

Key findings from the study revealed that salt warning labels effectively discouraged the selection of high-salt items, increased awareness of salt content when ordering, and significantly reduced the amount of salt ordered per meal. Both online and real-world trials demonstrated consistent results, indicating the scalability and inclusivity of this intervention across different demographics.

The study also highlighted strong public support for implementing salt warning labels on menus, with two-thirds of participants endorsing the idea as a government policy. Despite the lack of mandatory nutrient warning policies in UK restaurants, there is a growing consensus among consumers and experts regarding the need for transparent menu labeling to promote healthier food choices.

The research team collaborated with institutions like Liverpool John Moores University, Bath Spa University, and the University of California, Davis to design and analyze the study. Their collective efforts underscore the importance of regulating the out-of-home food sector to prioritize public health and reduce the burden of preventable diseases associated with excessive salt intake.

Overall, the study adds to the growing body of international evidence supporting the effectiveness of simple and cost-effective menu labeling interventions in encouraging healthier food choices and reducing population-level salt intake. With increasing awareness and advocacy for menu labeling policies, governments and businesses in the food sector are urged to prioritize public health and implement strategies that align with national nutrition goals.

For more information, you can access the full study titled “Salt warning labels in the out-of-home food sector: online and real-world randomized controlled trials” in The Lancet Public Health (2025) [DOI: 10.1016/S2468-2667(25)00143-4]. This groundbreaking research is a step towards promoting informed consumer choices and shaping healthier food environments for the future.