The role of potassium intake in the development and treatment of hypertension was less clear. As noted above, primitive cultures studied epidemiologically had low sodium intakes associated with low prevalence and incidence of hypertension but these cultures also consumed higher levels of potassium. It has been suggested that the ratio of sodium to potassium may be the most important determinant of blood pressure. Hygienic intervention to increase potassium intake in free-living populations was the least studied of the procedures used in the HPT. Potassium intakes > l00 mEq could be achieved without the use of dietary supplements if individuals consumed large quantities of fruits and vegetables. This natural intake could also be increased by use of potassium-based baking powder and seasonings.