The rate of salt intake in Iran is twice the globally recommended amount, said Dr. Zahra Abdollahi, head of the Nutrition Improvement Department at the Health Ministry. “According to research conducted by the ministry, per capita intake of sugar is 38%, bread and rice 5%, and oil 20% more than the recommended amounts,” she said at a scientific conference in Shahrood, Semnan Province, Borna News Agency reported. That is while per capita intake of vegetables or fruits is 25%, dairy products 25%, grains 30%, and eggs 20%, less than the prescribed levels. The rate of non-communicable diseases, all caused or exacerbated by excessive intake of salt, sugar, and oil, is skyrocketing, she said, urging people to take up healthy diets and lifestyles.
