Iodised salt

File:Global iodized salt logo.jpg

Iodised Salt

Iodised salt, also known as iodized salt, is table salt mixed with a minute amount of various iodine-containing salts. The ingestion of iodine prevents iodine deficiency, which affects about two billion people worldwide and is the leading preventable cause of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Iodised salt is used to help reduce the incidence of iodine deficiency in humans.

• History

The practice of adding iodine to salt began in the early 20th century. In 1924, the United States began adding iodine to salt to combat the widespread problem of goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland caused by iodine deficiency. This public health initiative was successful in significantly reducing the incidence of goiter and other iodine deficiency disorders.

• Chemistry

Iodised salt is typically produced by adding potassium iodate (KIO₃) or potassium iodide (KI) to table salt (sodium chloride, NaCl). The amount of iodine added is small, typically around 20 to 40 mg of iodine per kilogram of salt. This concentration is sufficient to provide the recommended daily intake of iodine for most individuals.

• Health Benefits

Iodine is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Adequate iodine intake is crucial for:

• Preventing Goiter: Iodine deficiency can lead to the development of goiter.
• Preventing Intellectual Disabilities: Iodine deficiency during pregnancy can lead to cretinism, a condition characterized by severe intellectual disability and developmental delays.
• Supporting Metabolic Health: Thyroid hormones play a key role in regulating metabolic processes.

• Public Health Impact

The introduction of iodised salt has been one of the most successful public health interventions. It has led to a significant reduction in the prevalence of iodine deficiency disorders worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) and other health organizations recommend universal salt iodization as a strategy to eliminate iodine deficiency.

• Controversies and Challenges

While iodised salt has been effective in reducing iodine deficiency, there are challenges and controversies associated with its use:

• Overconsumption of Salt: Public health campaigns often focus on reducing salt intake to prevent hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Balancing iodine intake with reduced salt consumption is a challenge.
• Iodine Sensitivity: Some individuals may be sensitive to iodine and could experience adverse effects from excessive iodine intake.
• Stability of Iodine: Iodine can be volatile and may evaporate from salt over time, especially in humid conditions, reducing its effectiveness.

• Alternatives and Supplements

In addition to iodised salt, iodine can be obtained from other dietary sources such as seafood, dairy products, and iodine-fortified foods. In regions where iodised salt is not available, iodine supplements may be used to prevent deficiency.

Also see

• Iodine deficiency
• Thyroid hormone
• Goiter
• Salt
• Public health

Message

No content specified