A TREND for adding salt to coffee poses a serious health risk, say experts.
The move is fuelled by a belief that adding salt makes the brew sweeter and is a good way to cut down on sugar.
Psychologist Dr Eleanor Bryant said: “Salt enhances flavours, particularly by moderating the perception of the bitter notes in caffeine, which in turn can sometimes make coffee taste sweeter.
“While some Brits may believe adding salt is beneficial, because swapping it for a sweetener helps reduce sugar intake, there is no scientific evidence to support any health benefits of adding salt to coffee.
“In fact, regularly increasing your salt intake in this way could be harmful, particularly for people who drink multiple cups a day.”
Dr Bryant, of the University of Bradford, said how people take their coffee was down to genetics.
She said: “It can be influenced by dominant and recessive genes related to taste perception.
“You’re either born more inclined to like bitter flavours or not.
“Many of us learn to like bitter flavours, but those who adjust their coffee instead, are essentially adding a ‘flavour nudge’ to make it more enjoyable for their palate.”
Coffee machine maker Philips added: “Complicated orders are nothing new but this latest craze suggests coffee-lovers are taking alterations to new extremes.”
