Cutting Back on Salt? Here Are 8 Alternatives That Actually Taste Good

Nu-Salt can be used just like regular salt, though some may find larger quantities are required to get a salty taste. However, its potassium content may not be ideal for everyone. “It is important to note that salt substitutes containing potassium chloride are not recommended for people with kidney, heart, or liver disease, or for those taking potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE inhibitors, as it can lead to dangerously high potassium levels in the blood,” cautions Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDN, preventive cardiology dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator.

Like Nu-Salt, MySALT Substitute Original uses potassium chloride to impart a salty flavor. Most find that MySALT Substitute very closely mimics table salt, both in texture and in flavor. It comes in shakers and packets, and contains a good dose of potassium. For those who may miss garlic salt or want something to evoke the taste of movie theater popcorn, the company also offers flavored versions like Cajun, garlic, pizza, butter, and herb garden.

Those concerned with their potassium intake will want to do their due diligence before using this seasoning. Though it’s worth noting that it has significantly less potassium than most other potassium-based salt substitutes, it’s more expensive than regular ol’ table salt. Still, as a substitute, it has a nice variety of options for those worried about missing out on flavor.

Like other salt substitutes on our list, NoSalt Original relies on potassium chloride to deliver that familiar salty taste, minus the sodium. It’s probably one of the most recognizable names in the salt substitute world and tends to be easy to find in most grocery stores. Many people find it satisfies their salt craving fairly well, especially when used in cooking or on top of savory dishes.

That said, potassium chloride can sometimes leave a slightly bitter or metallic aftertaste, especially when used in large amounts. And, like other potassium-based substitutes, NoSalt isn’t ideal for those who need to watch their potassium intake. Still, for anyone looking to cut back on sodium without sacrificing flavor entirely, NoSalt remains a solid option.

Morton is a household name when it comes to salt, so it’s no surprise that its Salt Substitute is a go-to for many people trying to cut back on their sodium intake. Like other potassium-based substitutes, it delivers a salty flavor without any actual sodium. However, many find that Morton’s formula is a bit milder and less metallic than some other options, making it a solid choice if you’re just starting to adjust your palate.

Morton’s Salt Substitute doesn’t offer much variety when it comes to flavors or alternate formats — you’ll just find the standard shaker here. And, it bears repeating, folks with kidney conditions or anyone advised to limit potassium should check with a doctor before using it regularly. Still, for the average sodium-conscious home cook, it’s a simple, budget-friendly way to shake up your seasoning options.

Dash Original (the company dropped the “Mrs.” from its name in 2020) isn’t trying to taste like salt, but…that’s kind of the point. Instead of trying to mimic salt’s flavor, this blend of herbs and spices adds flavor without sodium and with only a very tiny amount of potassium. It’s a great option for people who can’t have either but still want to enjoy some added flavor on their veggies or proteins. Dr. Sathyamoorthy notes that seasoning blends like Dash can “provide a lot of flavors without the sodium content.”

The flavor leans zesty and savory, with ingredients like garlic, onion, pepper, and citrus. While it may not satisfy a salt craving directly, it does a great job enhancing the flavors of various dishes. If you’re looking to cook more heart-healthy meals or just need a reliable salt-free blend, Dash is a classic pantry staple worth keeping on your radar. 

Bragg Nutritional Yeast isn’t technically a salt substitute, but its umami-rich, cheesy flavor makes it a favorite for people cutting back on sodium. Vegans have long been aware of nutritional yeast’s ability to mimic parmesan flavor in recipes, but the benefits go beyond the hit of flavor it provides. It’s naturally low in sodium and is loaded with B vitamins, including B12, protein, and iron, making it a popular addition to vegan and heart-healthy diets alike.

Sprinkle it on popcorn, pasta, roasted veggies, or even salads for a hit of savory depth without the salt. While it doesn’t imitate the taste of salt itself, it delivers a satisfying flavor punch that can keep you from reaching for the salt shaker. Just note: the unique taste of the original flavor can be polarizing, so start with a light hand.

The flavor is milder than other seaweeds and works well sprinkled over salads, grains, soups, or avocado toast. That said, the taste may be a bit too oceanic for some, and it comes with a higher price tag than most pantry staples. But if you're looking for a minimally processed, mineral-rich alternative to salt, dulse flakes are worth a try.

It works especially well on roasted vegetables, in stir-fries, or sprinkled over eggs. Just keep in mind that since it does contain salt, it may not be suitable for all sodium-restricted diets, but if you’re looking to boost flavor while reducing your salt intake, it’s a delicious shortcut.