In view of the importance for epidemiological studies, the objective was to develop instrument to assess consumption of foods high in sodium. Applied 24-hour recall (R24) in 50 individuals ≥18 years of both sexes to identify foods and preparations consumed. For elaboration of food frequency questionnaire of foods with high sodium content (QFA-ATS), selected foods with a quantity of sodium (Na) ≥ 400mg per 100g/ml of food. The initial list consisted of 44 items, distributed in six food groups. In a pilot study, applied the initial QFA-ATS to 32 hypertensive individuals ≥40 years of age, randomly selected from a population-based probabilistic study sample. Restructuring of the QFA-ATS to include foods that contribute to sodium intake, as they represent the usual consumption of the target-population. QFA-ATS is semi-quantitative type, composed of 55 items, distributed in seven food groups. Defined standard portion of each item from the table of measures referred to for food consumed in Brazil. Established four options for the amount consumed, and determined eight categories of intake frequency. Applied descriptive statistics to estimate sodium intake. Observed inadequate sodium intake in the healthy population (76%) and in those with hypertension (84.4%). In the pilot study, the initial QFA-ATS showed that 40.4% of the sodium intake comes from foods with high sodium content. The QFA-ATS met the methodological aspects for sodium quantification. Studies for validation and reproducibility of this instrument are in progress.