The deal is that the FDA can require reduced sodium in processed foods but they can not take the salt shaker out of a person's hand. IDK about reduced sodium bacon. Processed meats that I use for cooking - ham hocks, tasso, andouille I expect the salt and compensate by not adding any or very little at the end of the cooking process - after tasting. I use Better than Bouillon Base instead of boxed/canned broth. It is high in sodium so I rarely add any salt. I am not a big fan of seasoning mixes. Most are salt based. I want more control. Salt is a tough one. I like my salt and have to be careful not to get heavy handed with it. We both take meds for HBP so a little less salt would be beneficial. One thing I do find a little over salted is deli meat - especially the pre-packed kind. Even the sliced to order can be over salted. Depends on the brand.
No fact - just a supposition - I think people like those on this forum who enjoy cooking are more prone to cooking with fresh products and less processed foods - more control over the sodium content.
Do you ever look into the shopping carts of folks paying with Food Stamps? Very little, if any fresh foods - mostly boxed, canned and pre-packaged. Lots of junk food and snack items. The County Extension Office used to offer free seminars geared to food stamp recipients on how to shop for and prepare healthy, economic meals. The program was dropped due to lack of interest.
Sorry - off topic.