Investigatory Project on:
Comparative Study of Sodium Content in Different Packaged Snacks
Name: Nikhil Gupta
Class: 12th (Science)
Subject: Chemistry
School Name: [Your School Name Here]
Submitted To: [Teacher's Name]
Academic Year: 2025–26
Objective
To compare the sodium content in various packaged snacks available in the market and
analyze the data to determine which product offers a healthier sodium level. The purpose is
to understand the role of sodium in our diet, assess nutritional labeling, and raise
awareness of hidden salts in processed foods.
Certificate
This is to certify that Nikhil Gupta of Class 12 (Science) has successfully completed the
investigatory project titled 'Comparative Study of Sodium Content in Different Packaged
Snacks' under the supervision of the Chemistry teacher for the academic session 2025–
2026.
Date: __________
Teacher’s Signature: ___________
Teacher’s Name: ___________
School Seal:
Introduction
Sodium is an essential mineral that plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve
function, and muscle contractions in the human body. However, excessive sodium intake is
linked to several health problems including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
In today’s world, where packaged and processed foods are widely consumed, monitoring
sodium intake has become crucial. This project aims to investigate the sodium content in
various common packaged snacks by studying their nutritional labels, with the goal of
identifying healthier options.
Theory / Background
Sodium is commonly found in table salt (sodium chloride) and is added to snacks as a flavor
enhancer and preservative. While the human body needs sodium, the World Health
Organization recommends no more than 2,000 mg per day. Most packaged snacks
contribute significantly to this limit. This study focuses on understanding how nutritional
labeling helps consumers make informed decisions about their sodium intake. By
comparing the sodium values listed on packages, we gain insight into their health impact.
Experimental Procedure
1. Select at least five commonly available packaged snacks from different brands and types
(e.g., chips, namkeen, biscuits).
2. Note the serving size and sodium content from the nutritional information label of each
product.
3. Normalize the sodium content to a standard 100g serving for comparison.
4. Tabulate the data and compare the sodium levels.
5. Analyze which snack offers the lowest sodium content per 100g and discuss its suitability
as a healthier option.
Observations & Data Table
Below is the comparison of sodium content in different packaged snacks (per 100g):
Snack Type Brand Sodium Content (mg/100g)
Potato Chips Lay’s Classic 550 mg
Potato Chips Bingo Original 540 mg
Potato Chips Uncle Chipps 530 mg
Salted Biscuits Parle Monaco 620 mg
Salted Biscuits Britannia 50-50 610 mg
Salted Biscuits Sunfeast Snacky 590 mg
Namkeen Mixture Haldiram’s Mix 710 mg
Namkeen Mixture Bikaji Bhujia 690 mg
Namkeen Mixture Bikanervala Mix 680 mg
Baked Chips Too Yumm! Baked 340 mg
Baked Chips Max Protein Chips 310 mg
Baked Chips Snackible Baked 320 mg
Roasted Makhana Happilo Makhana 220 mg
Roasted Makhana Too Yumm! Makhana 210 mg
Roasted Makhana Open Secret 200 mg
Analysis
Roasted makhana consistently shows the lowest sodium content, with Open Secret
containing only 200 mg per 100g. Namkeen mixtures remain the highest in sodium,
especially Haldiram’s with 710 mg. Baked snacks like Max Protein Chips offer a healthier
alternative. Consumers should read labels carefully, as sodium levels vary widely even
within the same snack type.
Result
Roasted Makhana by Open Secret (200 mg/100g) is the healthiest snack in terms of sodium.
Too Yumm! and Happilo also offer low-sodium options. Namkeen mixtures have the highest
sodium, making them less suitable for those limiting salt intake.
Health Implications
High sodium consumption is linked to hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, kidney
damage, and osteoporosis. By choosing snacks with lower sodium levels, individuals can
significantly reduce these health risks. This study highlights the importance of reading
nutrition labels and making informed dietary choices to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
This project helped in understanding the nutritional aspect of sodium in packaged foods.
Through label analysis and comparison, we identified products with lower sodium content.
It encourages healthier eating habits by promoting awareness of hidden salts in our daily
diet. Sodium intake should always be moderated for overall health and wellness.
Bibliography / References
1. NCERT Chemistry Textbook – Class XII
2. WHO Guidelines on Sodium Intake
3. [Link]
4. [Link]/nutrition/sodium
5. Nutrition labels from selected snack packages