What about salt substitutes? Are they safe and as tasty as salt?

According to the Consumer Reports on Health (July, 2010), not all of them are safe for everyone.  Products such as No Salt Original and Nu-Salt contain potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride. Potassium has many health benefits, but most people get enough of it from the foods they eat.  Additional potassium can be dangerous for people with kidney disease or those who take certain drugs for heart disease, high blood pressure, or liver disease.  Therefore, the publication recommends consulting a doctor before using a salt substitute. Moreover, it points out, salt substitutes with potassium chloride have a bitter taste. All things considered, it’s probably better to add flavor to your food by adding herbs and spices.

Source(s)

The Consumer Reports on Health  "Tip of the month: I'm trying to cut back on salt. Is it worth trying a salt substitute?" July 2010, p.12.