Iodised salt

Iodised salt (also spelled iodized salt) is table salt mixed with a minute amount of various iodine-containing salts. The ingestion of iodine prevents iodine deficiency. Worldwide, iodine deficiency affects about two billion people and is the leading preventable cause of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Iodised salt is used to help reduce these deficiencies.

History

Stamp of Indonesia promoting iodised salt

The practice of adding iodine to salt began in the early 20th century. The first country to implement a nationwide iodisation program was Switzerland in 1922. The United States followed in 1924, and many other countries have since adopted similar measures.

Production

A packet of iodized salt

Iodised salt is produced by spraying regular salt with a potassium iodate or potassium iodide solution. The amount of iodine added is small, typically around 20 to 40 mg of iodine per kilogram of salt. This process ensures that the iodine is evenly distributed throughout the salt.

Health Benefits

Iodine is an essential nutrient for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including goiter, hypothyroidism, and developmental delays in children. Iodised salt is an effective way to ensure adequate iodine intake in the diet.

Global Usage

Share of households consuming iodized salt

The use of iodised salt is widespread, with many countries mandating its use to combat iodine deficiency. However, the level of consumption varies globally, with some regions still experiencing significant iodine deficiency.

Variants

Iodised salt with fluoride and folic acid

In addition to iodine, some iodised salts also contain other additives such as fluoride and folic acid. These variants are designed to address multiple nutritional deficiencies simultaneously.

Related Pages

• Iodine deficiency
• Thyroid hormone
• Goiter
• Salt
• Nutrition