You might not be surprised by the fat and sugar content of your coffee-shop treat. But there is a third and less likely sting for those partial to a scone or a muffin. It might see you consuming as much salt as you would find in a Big Mac.
The revelation comes from a survey of 159 foods and 28 hot drinks served by six of the biggest coffee shop and fast-food chains.
The research was conducted by Consensus Action on Salt and Health after concerns the nation is overdosing on salt, with serious health consequences.
The worst offender was a luxury fruit scone from Caffe Nero, which contained 2.1g of salt, the same as a McDonald’s Big Mac and just over a third of an adult’s recommended maximum for a day.
If the scone was enjoyed with a Caffe Nero Hot Chocolate, which contains 0.33g salt, this would add up to 2.43g – nearly the equivalent of five packs of crisps.
CASH campaign manager Katharine Jenner said: ‘Going out for a coffee and a muffin is a popular calorie-laden treat, but many people don’t realise sweet foods can also contain unnecessary salt.
High levels of salt can leave you feeling uncomfortably bloated and sluggish, symptoms of “water retention”. More seriously, in the long term, salt intake is linked to health problems such as osteoporosis and high blood pressure.’
The salt in a supposedly healthy Low Fat Blueberry Muffin from McDonald’s measured 1.7g. Enlarge
McDonald’s said: ‘We are committed to reducing salt across our menu.’
Caffe Nero was unavailable for comment.
Daily Mail, p41
