Some Chinese takeaway meals contain as much salt as five Big Macs

Do you know how much salt you consume on a daily basis? If you’re a fan of Chinese takeaway meals, it could be far more than you ever imagined, according to a campaign group.

For their research, Action on Salt analysed more than 150 Chinese takeaway dishes from both restaurants and supermarkets. They found that most contained way too much salt – almost half the average person’s recommended daily amount of salt (6g) in some cases.

When it comes to the saltiest meals, dishes like beef in black bean sauce topped the list. If a person adds a portion of egg fried rice, their salt intake could rise by as much as 5.3g in one meal.

In fact, one portion of beef in black bean sauce and a side of vegetable noodles was found to contain as much salt as five Big Macs.

While it’s vastly more difficult with Chinese takeaway food, Action on Salt recommends people check the nutritional information on supermarket bought food to see how much salt it contains.

The campaign group says that many Chinese takeaway meals should carry health warnings because of the amount of salt they contain.

Too much salt can lead to increased blood pressure, which can in turn increase a person’s risk of heart attack and stroke.

Public Health England (PHE) has been encouraging the food industry to reduce the amount of salt found in food.

Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist for PHE, said: "A loaf of bread has 40% less than it used to.

"However, some products are still too high in salt and we know this can be reduced further.

"We've been very clear with the food industry on the importance of meeting the 2017 salt targets.

"We'll report on their progress this year and on any necessary advice to government on the next steps."

So, the next time you reach to grab your favourite Chinese takeaway meal from the supermarket, just have a quick read of the nutritional information. What you discover might just make you choose something else instead.