The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly has passed a resolution on open display of salt in all food establishments across the city.
In a statement issues by the Assembly, Friday, March 13, 2026, it noted that
the resolution was approved during the Assembly’s December 18, 2025 sitting, which targeted a common practice in restaurants, chop bars, and other food outlets where salt is often placed on tables, encouraging overconsumption beyond what is used in food preparation.
According to the Assembly, this move aims to reduce excessive salt consumption and curb rising rates of hypertension among residents.
The resolution follows a study conducted on 156 food establishments in the metropolis, which revealed 62% of of food sellers openly display salt on tables or counters, adding that Chop bars recorded the highest.
”The policy decision is informed by new local evidence. In 2025, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly commissioned an observational study of 156 food service establishments.
”The study found that 62% of establishments openly display salt on tables or counters, enabling customers to add extra salt to meals already prepared with salt.
“Chop bars recorded the highest prevalence of this practice,” the statement disclosed.
The study also revealed that none of the assessed establishments displayed health advisories on salt consumption, highlighting a missed opportunity to promote healthier choices and raise awareness about the risks associated with excessive salt intake.
KMA further highlighted that the resolution will be implemented this year with activities including public education, campaigns, engagement with food service operators and integration of salt- reduction requirements into environmental health inspections.
The assembly explained that, these steps will ensure both adherence and sustained behavior change.
Source: Christabel Opare
