Scores of workers order a readymade green salad for lunch everyday because they believe that it is healthier than a Big Mac or a Mars Bar. However in many cases their healthy choice is anything but healthy and they would be better off ordering a regular greasy burger.

In the middle of a booming market for takeaway salads, a new survey of those from supermarkets has discovered that many contain more than half the recommended daily intake of salt. The research was conducted by Consensus Action on Salt and they found that only six of the salads which they tested contained less salt than a pack of crisps whereas one out of ten contained more salt than a Big Mac.

“People can’t just pick up a salad and assume it is good for them. They can be high in calories — especially those with pasta and creamy sauces,” said Angela Dowden, a registered nutritionist who has studied salt content in the food. She adds that many of the salads don’t even contain one portion of your vital five a day.