Results on sources of sodium intake in diets of elderly populations were reviewed and accompanied by an examination of previously unreported results on dietary sources of sodium. Results from NFCS, NHANES I, NHANES II and this study showed average sodium intake levels (excluding discretionary salt) were in the range of 2,00 to 2,900 mg/day. Assessment of data from three sources strongly indicated that grain products were the major source of sodium in elderly individuals' diets. Meats and mixed protein dishes and milk and milk products were identified as two other food categories contributing large portions of sodium to diets. Individuals who were identified as having had greater than average daily sodium consumption intakes had the same principal food sources of sodium. Their increased sodium intakes were attributed to increased intake of all foods and to heavier usage of condiments, sauces and dips, and salted snack foods.