FFYWB - Brighten the Flavor

Food for Your Well-Being (FFYWB) is a nutrition and wellness education series from Bon Appétit Management Company that supports your well-being, whether you’re working or learning onsite or at home. Read the tips, watch the videos, and try the recipes for all FFYWB topics.

BRIGHTEN THE FLAVOR

Salt ー it does the body good, but only in small amounts, and many Americans consume too much. Learn how to brighten the flavor of foods with less salt, and without sacrificing flavor.

Here are a few tips to harmonize with spices to use less salt without sacrificing flavor:

• Use less salt for a healthy heart. The average person consumes nearly twice the sodium as the maximum daily recommendation of 2,300 milligrams. Reduce the amount of salt you add to foods gradually to allow your taste to adjust.
• Consume mostly whole foods. To lower sodium intake, consume mostly whole foods and fewer processed and prepackaged items. Foods naturally lower in sodium — such as fruits and vegetables — also have potassium, which can offset sodium effects.
• Build flavor without adding salt. Enliven dishes with fresh herbs, spices, and citrus during and after cooking. Cooking methods such as roasting, braising, and grilling also build flavor.
• A little goes a long way. Certain foods are high in sodium and should be used sparingly. This includes processed sauces, cheese, pickles, olives, and condiments.

Struggling to brighten the flavor of foods with less salt? Check out our simple swaps to reduce sodium: