NDP urges Conservatives to support Sodium Reduction Strategy

NDP Health Critic Libby Davies (Vancouver East) is urging the Conservative government to support Bill C-460 to implement a strategy to lower sodium levels in prepackaged foods.

“ The Sodium Reduction Strategy is an effective way to reduce chronic disease and save thousands of Canadian lives, not to mention billions in health care costs,” said Davies. “ I encourage the Conservatives to consider the benefits for all Canadians and implement this fully formed initiative.”

Canada is facing an epidemic of sodium-related diseases due to the high sodium content of prepackaged foods. Bill C-460 seeks to reduce sodium levels in prepackaged food by implementing the Sodium Reduction Strategy for Canada, released in 2010 by the Sodium Working Group. The strategy includes phasing in lower sodium levels in foods and simple, standardised labelling for prepackaged foods.

“This practical plan will result in healthier Canadians today and for generations to come,” said deputy Health critic Djaouida Sellah (Saint-Bruno – Saint-Hubert)Saint-Bruno—Saint-Hubert. “Canadians have been asking for this legislation for years and it’s time for the Conservatives to support this initiative.”