Salt intake is still high in Japan. Labeling salt content to the foodstuffs is important to promote salt restriction in the general population. In the present study, we investigated the current status of labeling salt content in the foodstuffs in Japan. Seventeen female volunteers were asked to report the presence or absence of labeling energy, sodium( Na) as well as salt (NaCl) contents in the foodstuffs that they purchased during 30 days in March, 2011. In total, 1579 items were investigated. Labeling energy and sodium contents were present in 80% of the items, while salt content was shown only in 37% of them. Twenty percent of the total items were lack of labeling any nutrient components. The presence of labeling salt content was relatively high in the processed food, and 66% of seasoning product had the labeling of salt content. On the other hand, very few daily dishes or locally produced foodstuffs had the labeling of salt content. In conclusion, current status of labeling salt content in the foodstuffs is insufficient in Japan. Political or social approach to the food industry is required to encourage labeling salt content.

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