One of the degenerative diseases, namely obesity, is also one of the nutritional problems in Indonesia. Obesity is also one of the Triple Burden of Malnutrition, the main nutritional problems in Indonesia besides wasting and micronutrient deficiencies. Seeing this condition, PT AJINOMOTO INDONESIA (Ajinomoto) as a cooking seasoning company in Indonesia that is very concerned with nutritional problems has organized a webinar as an effort to educate the public so that they can implement a healthy lifestyle.

On the webinar: “Is Obesity Caused by Umami Seasoning or Excess Calories?” which was held on September 6, 2022. On this webinar also present nutritionist expert dr. Arti Indira, MGz, SpGK, FINEM who explained scientific facts related to degenerative diseases such as obesity and hypertension, as well as strategies to reduce salt intake by using Umami seasoning such as monosodium glutamate (MSG).

According to dr. Arti Indira, the consumption of Umami seasoning such as MSG cannot be said to be the main cause of obesity, because until now there has been no research or scientific journal to prove it.

“The cause of obesity itself is very complex, aka multifactorial. Obesity cannot be caused by one factor alone. The causes of obesity are closely related to food intake, physical activity, genetics and the environment. So far there are no studies that emphasize that obesity is caused by seasonings such as MSG,” said dr. Arti

“One of the biggest causes of obesity is overeating. Therefore, the diet must be improved, by regulating daily food containing nutrients in the type and amount according to the body's needs by taking into account the principle of daily food diversity. In addition to eating nutritious foods, it is recommended that people have to reduce their consumption of salt in their diets to avoid obesity. The ideal standard of salt use is less than 5 grams,” she continued.

Agree with dr. Arti, Katarina Larasati – Public Relations Manager of PT AJINOMOTO INDONESIA, said that Ajinomoto is currently promoting the Smart Salt campaign which is in line with the recommendation of the Indonesian Ministry of Health regarding reducing the intake of Sugar, Salt, Fat (GGL) in daily consumption.

“Through the Smart Salt campaign, Ajinomoto wants to educate the public about the importance of a low-salt diet and invite Indonesian families to live healthier lives by reducing the intake or use of salt in food processing, but we can still be able to get a high taste in our food. This campaign is also a testament to Ajinomoto's commitment to continue creating positive contributions to society, by improving the welfare and health of Indonesian families through high quality products and services. To view the details of the Smart Salt menu, it can be accessed through our Dapur Umami website: https://www.dapurumami.com/page/bijak-garam ," said Katarina.

PT AJINOMOTO INDONESIA is committed to continuing to make a positive contribution to society, by improving the welfare and health of Indonesian families through high quality products and services that focus on delicacy and health.