Hidden sodium in effervescent food supplements: labelling practices and product composition

Effervescent food supplements contain mineral carbonates and organic acids that enable carbon dioxide release. While sodium content is well established for effervescent medicines, data for food supplements remain limited. Sodium labelling is not mandatory for food supplements in the European Union. Effervescent tablets are consumed as beverages and may be used daily, potentially contributing to total sodium intake relevant for cardiovascular health. The aim of this study was to examine the sodium content and labelling practices of the effervescent food supplements available in Slovenia. A cross-sectional representative sample of 71 effervescent supplements containing vitamins and/or minerals was analysed. Sodium content was quantified using an accredited inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy method. The mean sodium content per dose unit was 253 ± 108 mg. The highest mean levels were observed in products containing vitamins&minerals (N = 18; 314 ± 109 mg), and the lowest in calcium containing products (N = 9; 136 ± 59 mg). Wit43h recommended intakes of up to three dose units per day, sodium exposure may reach 740 mg, corresponding to up to 37% of the EFSA reference intake of 2000 mg/day. Effervescent food supplements can represent a notable and often overlooked source of dietary sodium. • Effervescent supplements can be a hidden source of dietary sodium • Regular use may increase daily sodium intake without consumer awareness • Most products (77%) did not declare their sodium content on the label • Sodium levels vary widely and depend on product formulation • Some products provide up to 37% of the recommended daily sodium intake