According to the material, sodium is described as 3400 mg per day and was once a strong preservative but is now a common spice. Which option correctly reflects this description?

• A. 100 mg per day; used to season only at the table
• B. 3400 mg per day; used to be a strong preservative, now common spice
• C. 5000 mg per day; never used as a preservative
• D. 0 mg per day; sodium is not present in foods

Answer: (B)

Sodium is described as a daily amount of 3400 mg and its role shifting from a strong preservative to a common spice today. The best choice reflects both pieces of information: it states 3400 mg per day and notes that sodium was once a powerful preservative but is now mainly used to flavor foods. This aligns with the material’s point that sodium’s historical use was largely for preservation, while its current everyday function is as a seasoning or flavor enhancer. The other statements conflict with either the stated daily amount or the historical use, which is why they aren’t correct.