Earthquake hits Switzerland overnight; Bern community locks horns over cowbells; Swiss salt consumption remains too high

News For 4 June 2024

An earthquake measuring 4.3 on the Richter scale occurred at 2:34 am near Sihltal in canton Schwyz, 20 km from Zurich. It could be felt throughout Switzerland, the Swiss Seismological Service (SED) announced. "Approximately 130 reports were received in the first half hour after the quake," SED said. No casualties or major damage have been reported so far.

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In the Bern municipality of Aarwangen, some residents protested against the nightly ringing of cowbells in the nearby pastures. As a result of this discontent, the so-called 'bell initiative’, seeking to uphold the tradition, was launched and signed by over 1,000 residents, SRF public broadcaster reported on Monday. “Aarwangen should embrace bell ringing as a tradition," said Andreas Baumann, who spearheaded the ‘keep the bels’ initiative. “These bells are part of the Swiss DNA." The issue will be voted on at the upcoming municipal assembly on June 17th.

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Salt can cause high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease, and strokes. The World Health Organisation recommends no more than 5 grams a day. A study published this week shows Swiss men eat nearly double that, and Swiss women nearly 50% more. Around 90% of those surveyed said that they never or rarely add salt to food. This means they are getting most of their salt via processed foods. One ready-made meal can be enough to exceed the limit. Another problem is insufficient potassium consumption. Several studies have shown that high potassium intake is associated with lower blood pressure, and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Ideally, an individual should consume more potassium than sodium. Potassium levels are especially high in fruits and vegetables.