In 2014 average salt consumption for adults was 8.0g per day, which has decreased from 8.5g in 2011 and 8.8g in 2005/06.
Dr Alison Tedstone, chief nutritionist at PHE, said: “Our analysis makes clear that there is a steady downward trend in salt consumption. While people are having less salt than 10 years ago, we are still eating a third more than we should.
“Many manufacturers and retailers have significantly reduced the salt levels in everyday foods. However, more needs to be done, especially by restaurants, cafes and takeaways.”
Public Health England reports that too much salt in the diet can raise blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. A reduction in average salt intake from 8g to 6g per day is estimated to prevent over 8000 premature deaths each year and save the NHS over £570 million annually.