SALT

Why Salt?

Salt is an essential commodity and a fundamental necessity for the human body, playing a vital role in various biological functions. The importance of salt includes:

1. Regulating Water and Electrolyte Balance

Sodium, found in salt, is one of the body’s most important electrolytes. It helps regulate fluid balance in cells. Without sufficient sodium, the body cannot properly maintain water levels, potentially leading to dehydration or cell swelling.

2. Supporting Nervous and Muscular Function

Sodium and potassium are essential for transmitting nerve signals and proper muscle function. Low salt levels may cause muscle cramps, weakness, extreme fatigue, and even seizures.

3. Maintaining Blood Pressure and Heart Function

Salt helps regulate blood pressure. While excessive consumption may lead to high blood pressure, a lack of salt can result in dangerously low blood pressure, dizziness, and weakness.

4. Aiding Digestion

Chloride in salt is a key component of stomach acid (hydrochloric acid), which helps digest food and absorb nutrients. Salt deficiency can cause digestive issues, loss of appetite, and indigestion.

5. Balancing the Body’s pH Levels

Salt plays a role in maintaining the body’s acid-base (pH) balance, preventing excessive acidity that can cause inflammation and organ dysfunction.

6. Providing Essential Minerals

Natural salt contains not only sodium and chloride but also essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron, which are necessary for cell function, bone strength, and overall health.

7. Enhancing Flavor and Preserving Food

Salt is a natural seasoning that improves the taste of food. It also acts as a natural preservative by preventing bacterial growth and extending food shelf life.

Salt is an irreplaceable and vital substance for the body, playing a key role in fluid balance, nerve function, digestion, and overall health. However, consumption should be balanced to avoid issues like high blood pressure or sodium deficiency (hyponatremia).

Types of Salt and Choosing the Best One

To select the best type of salt, we can compare them based on three main factors, according to research from PubMed and Nature:

1. Purity and Mineral Composition
2. Risk of Contaminants and Impurities
3. Impact on Human Health

1. Sea Salt

Characteristics:

• Obtained by evaporating seawater.
• Rich in natural minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and zinc.
• Has coarser grains and a milder taste compared to refined salt.

⚠ Risks:

• May contain microplastics, especially from polluted regions.
• Possible contamination with heavy metals like lead and mercury in some sources.
• Some sea salts may contain trace amounts of radioactive materials.

Conclusion: Sea salt is beneficial due to its minerals, but it should be sourced from reputable suppliers to minimize contamination risks.

2. miner Salt (Halite)

Characteristics:

• Extracted from underground salt mines (e.g., Himalayan salt, Iranian rock salt from Garmsar).
• One of the purest natural salts, formed millions of years ago with minimal environmental pollution.
• Contains iron, magnesium, and potassium in small amounts.
• Free from microplastics and modern contaminants since it hasn’t been exposed to ocean pollution.

⚠ Risks:

• May naturally contain gypsum and calcium sulfate as impurities.
• Low in iodine, which could lead to thyroid problems if the diet lacks iodine sources.

Conclusion: Rock salt is one of the cleanest salts available and is ideal for those seeking a salt free from modern pollutants.

3. Desert Salt (Salt Pan or Evaporated Salt)

Characteristics:

• Collected from natural salt flats or underground water evaporation (e.g., Iranian deserts, African salt lakes).
• Contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium naturally.
• No contact with polluted ocean waters, making it microplastic-free.

⚠ Risks:

• May contain higher levels of sulfates and carbonates, giving it a slightly bitter taste.
• Quality varies depending on the source, as it may contain sediments or natural impurities.

Conclusion: Desert salt is a natural and relatively pure option, but its mineral composition can vary by region.

Comparison and Best Choice

Which Salt is the Best?

✔ For the purest, least contaminated option → Miner salt (Halite) is the best choice.
✔ For higher mineral content → Sea salt is better, but it should be from a reliable source.
✔ For a natural, untouched local option → Desert salt is a good choice, but its quality may vary.

💡 Suggestion: A balanced approach is to use a mix of different salts to benefit from their various advantages.

Why Choose Miner Salt?

The Purest Natural Salt on Earth!

By choosing rock salt, you benefit from pure, uncontaminated sodium without concerns about radioactive substances or heavy metals!

• Unlike sea salt, which may contain microplastics and heavy metals, rock salt is extracted from underground layers, remaining untouched and free from any environmental pollutants.
• Due to exposure to oceans and industrial pollution, sea salt may contain harmful substances that could affect health in the long run.
• Rock salt has remained underground for millions of years, preserving its purity without exposure to harmful contaminants.

2. The Historical and Natural Value of Rock Salt

A salt that has stood the test of time, free from pollution!

• Miner salt has been formed over millions of years in regions such as Iran (Garmsar), Pakistan (Himalayan salt), and parts of Europe, retaining its valuable minerals over time.
• Because it forms deep underground, rock salt is generally free from environmental pollutants such as microplastics and heavy metals. Studies by the GSP confirm that Himalayan salt has a high percentage of sodium chloride, with impurity levels well below the standards set by the FDA and WHO.
• Unlike desert salt, which may be affected by weather conditions and surface deposits, rock salt is extracted from deep within the earth, ensuring its purity.

3. Nutritional Benefits of Rock Salt

The salt your body truly needs!

• Unlike refined table salt, which is often stripped of beneficial minerals, rock salt naturally contains iron, potassium, magnesium, and other essential nutrients.
• While sea salt may contain beneficial minerals, it can also be contaminated with radioactive substances and microplastics.
• Desert salt, depending on its source, may have high sulfate levels and impurities, affecting its taste and quality.

Rock salt provides more essential minerals while remaining completely natural and uncontaminated.
Because it forms deep underground, rock salt is shielded from environmental pollutants.
A gift from nature, preserved just for you!

Key Differences – Comparison Table

Rock Salt – A Safe, Healthy, and Pollution-Free Choice!

Why Do Professional Chefs and Nutritionists Prefer Rock Salt?

• Many top chefs and nutrition experts recommend miner salt over sea and desert salts because:
  ✅ It has a natural, mild flavor.
  ✅ Due to its high purity, it suits all types of dishes.
  ✅ Rock salt is even used in medical and pharmaceutical industries due to its purity and lack of contaminants.

Choose Miner Salt for a Healthier, More Natural Lifestyle!

Sea Salt

Sea salt is generally considered safe for consumption, but its composition depends on the harvesting location and processing methods. Scientifically, sea salt may contain impurities such as heavy metals (e.g., lead and mercury), microplastics, and even radioactive elements.

Possibility of Radioactive Elements in Sea Salt

Certain sea salt harvesting areas may be affected by natural or human-made pollution, especially near nuclear power plants or mining regions. Radioactive elements such as Radium-226, Radium-228, Potassium-40, and Uranium naturally exist in seawater. According to standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the permissible level of natural radiation in food, including salt, must remain below a specified threshold. Scientific studies (from reliable sources such as PubMed or WHO reports) confirm that the radioactive levels in sea salt generally fall within a safe range. However, if salt is harvested from highly polluted areas, the concentration of these elements could be higher.

Comparison with Refined Salt

Refined industrial salt is usually free of the potential impurities found in sea salt, but it contains additives such as iodine and anti-caking agents (e.g., silicates). In contrast, sea salt naturally contains more beneficial minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which are essential for the body.

How to Ensure the Safety of Sea Salt?

• Check the source: Salts harvested from low-pollution areas are safer.
• Look for standard testing: Reputable brands conduct tests to detect contaminants.
• Control consumption: Regardless of the type, moderate salt intake (whether sea salt or refined salt) is recommended.

Sea salt is generally not harmful, but it may contain trace amounts of radioactive elements. If purchased from reputable and regulated sources, it poses no significant risk.

How Dangerous is Sea Salt for Human Consumption?

Sea salt is considered safe, but some potential risks depend on its source, consumption level, and the presence of contaminants. Based on scientific articles and geological studies, the possible risks of consuming sea salt include:

1. Potential Contamination with Radioactive Elements

Sea salt may contain trace amounts of radioactive isotopes such as Potassium-40, Radium-226, Radium-228, and Uranium. However:

• The amounts are usually minimal and not enough to pose a health threat.
• Scientific reviews indicate that radiation levels from sea salt are below the permissible limits set by health organizations like WHO and FDA.
• If harvested from polluted areas (e.g., near nuclear power plants or industrial zones), these elements may be present in higher concentrations.

🚨 Risk Level: Low, unless sourced from contaminated regions.

2. Heavy Metal Contamination (Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, and Arsenic)

Studies show that some sea salt sources may contain small amounts of heavy metals, which, if consumed over long periods, could pose health risks. These contaminants can enter seawater through industrial pollution and human activities. According to European Commission regulations (EU Regulation 1881/2006) and the FDA, acceptable levels of lead, mercury, and cadmium in food, including salt, must remain below a certain threshold to ensure consumer safety.

⚠️ Risk Level: Generally low, but higher in unrefined and cheaper sea salts.

3. Presence of Microplastics in Sea Salt

One of the recent concerns is the presence of microplastics in sea salt. Research indicates that sea salts harvested from certain regions contain tiny plastic particles originating from human waste. A 2018 study published in Environmental Science & Technology and WHO research found that sea salts from highly polluted coastal areas had the highest levels of microplastic contamination. However, the exact health impact of these particles remains unclear.

• A 2018 study found that Asian sea salts had the highest microplastic contamination.
• These contaminants originate from plastic bottles, fishing nets, and marine debris.
• While their impact on human health is not fully understood, early research suggests excessive microplastic ingestion may lead to digestive issues and metabolic disorders.

⚠️ Risk Level: Unknown but potentially harmful with excessive consumption.

4. High Sodium Content and Its Effect on Blood Pressure

Like all types of salt, sea salt has a high sodium content. Excessive sodium intake can contribute to:

• High blood pressure
• Increased risk of heart disease
• Kidney problems

According to WHO recommendations, daily salt intake should not exceed 5 grams (about one teaspoon) to reduce the risk of hypertension and heart disease.

⚠️ Risk Level: Not exclusive to sea salt—applies to all salt types.

Is Consuming Sea Salt Dangerous?

Low risk: Sea salt poses no serious health risk when consumed in normal amounts.
⚠️ Potential risks: Possible contamination with heavy metals, microplastics, and trace radioactive elements from certain sources.
🔍 Safe approach: Purchase sea salt from reputable brands that conduct quality control tests.

Moderate consumption of sea salt is safe for most individuals, but overuse—especially from unknown sources—should be avoided.

Proper Storage of Salt: Maintaining Its Quality and Purity

Salt, due to its mineral nature, does not spoil. However, if not stored correctly, it may absorb moisture, clump together, or become contaminated. To preserve the purity, quality, and taste of salt, follow these essential guidelines:

1. Preventing Moisture Absorption

• Store in an Airtight Container: Salt is highly hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. If exposed to humidity, it can clump and harden. The best way to store it is in glass, plastic, or metal containers with a tight-sealing lid.
• Use Moisture Absorbers: To prevent clumping, place a few grains of dry rice inside the container to absorb excess moisture.
• Keep Away from Humid Areas: Avoid storing salt near the stove, sink, or refrigerator, as these areas tend to have high moisture levels.

2. Preventing Contamination and Maintaining Purity

• Keep Away from Chemicals and Strong Aromas: Salt absorbs surrounding odors and flavors. Do not store it near strong-smelling spices, detergents, or other chemicals.
• Use a Dry Spoon: Always use a clean, dry spoon to scoop salt, preventing moisture from entering the container.
• Use Dedicated Storage Containers: If using salt grinders (e.g., sea salt or rock salt grinders), ensure they remain dry and clean.

3. Storage Based on Salt Type

• Sea Salt and Mineral Salt: These salts contain additional minerals and are more hygroscopic, requiring storage in a dry, dark place.
• Iodized Salt: More sensitive to light and moisture, iodized salt should be stored in opaque containers in a cool, dry place to prevent iodine evaporation.

4. Best Containers for Storing Salt

✔ Glass: An ideal choice that preserves salt’s purity and prevents odor and moisture absorption.
✔ Ceramic: A good option if it has a tightly sealed lid.
✔ Stainless Steel: Durable and hygienic, but must be tightly sealed.
🚫 Avoid Low-Quality Plastic or Paper Containers: These materials may absorb moisture and odors, affecting the salt’s quality.

5. Ideal Temperature for Salt Storage

✔ Room Temperature (15–25°C / 59–77°F): The best temperature for salt storage.
✔ Keep Away from Direct Sunlight: Light exposure can reduce iodine content in iodized salt, so it is best stored in a dark place.

Potential Issues Caused by Moisture Exposure

If salt absorbs moisture, several problems may arise:

• Clumping: Moisture causes salt to stick together and harden, making it difficult to use.
• Reduced Purity: Water absorption may dissolve certain minerals, altering the salt’s composition.
• Mold or Contamination: While salt itself is not an ideal environment for bacteria, combining it with moisture and other substances may lead to white or dark spots.
• Reduced Shelf Life of Iodized Salt: Moisture can cause iodine to evaporate, diminishing its benefits.

To prevent these issues, always store salt in a sealed container, away from moisture, in a cool and dry environment.

Summary

✅ Store in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.
✅ Keep in a cool, dry place.
✅ Avoid using a wet spoon.
✅ Keep away from chemicals, strong odors, and humid areas like kitchens.

By following these storage guidelines, you can preserve salt indefinitely without compromising its quality and purity.

Nutritional Value of Blue and Pink Salt: A Comparison

Pink Salt vs. Blue Salt: Differences, Benefits, and Nutritional Value

Pink salt and blue salt are two rare types of mineral salts known for their unique mineral compositions and distinctive colors. Unlike refined white salt, these natural salts contain a variety of trace minerals, enhancing their nutritional value and giving them unique properties.

1. Pink Salt (Himalayan Pink Salt or Iranian Pink Salt – Garmsar)

✅ Source: Typically sourced from the Himalayan salt mines in Pakistan and the salt mines of Garmsar, Iran.
✅ Reason for Pink Color: The presence of trace amounts of iron (Fe) gives the salt its pink-orange hue.

✅ Nutritional Value (per 100g):

✅ Benefits and Advantages:
🔹 Rich in trace minerals like iron, potassium, and magnesium.
🔹 Milder and more natural taste compared to regular table salt.
🔹 Helps regulate blood pressure and nerve function.
🔹 Used in therapeutic baths and spa treatments due to its detoxifying properties.

✅ Best Uses:
✔ Culinary use (especially in healthy and diet-friendly meals).
✔ Suitable for salt grinders and mills.
✔ Used in therapeutic baths and skin treatments.

2. Blue Salt (Persian Blue Salt – Iranian Blue Salt)

✅ Source: Persian blue salt is mined from the rare salt deposits in Semnan, Iran, making it one of the rarest salts in the world.
✅ Reason for Blue Color: The blue color of Iranian salt is due to color centers, which are created by structural defects and the trapping of electrons in the halite crystal lattice, similar to what occurs in smoky quartz and fluorite.

✅ Nutritional Value (per 100g):

✅ Benefits and Advantages:
🔹 High in potassium, aiding muscle function and nerve health.
🔹 Has a unique, slightly stronger, and more complex taste than other salts.
🔹 Extremely rare and valuable due to its limited sources and difficult extraction process.

✅ Best Uses:
✔ Culinary use (especially for gourmet and high-end dishes).
✔ Preferred in luxury restaurants and professional cooking.
✔ Used as a decorative element due to its stunning blue crystalline appearance.

Comparison of Pink Salt and Blue Salt

Conclusion: Which Salt is Better?

✔ If you want a mineral-rich salt with a natural, mild taste, pink salt is a great choice.
✔ If you’re looking for a luxurious, rare salt with a high potassium content, blue salt is the best option.

Both salts are pure, natural, and free from chemical additives, offering greater nutritional benefits than refined table salt. The choice depends on your personal preference, taste, and usage needs.

Comparison of Himalayan Pink Salt (Pakistan) vs. Iranian Pink Salt (Garmsar)

Himalayan salt (from Pakistan) and Garmsar salt (from Iran) are both types of rock salt mined from natural salt deposits. However, they differ in their origin, mineral composition, color, taste, and benefits.

1. General Comparison: Himalayan Salt vs. Garmsar Salt

Key Differences in Quality and Mineral Content

✅ Himalayan Salt:
✔ Usually has a more uniform pink color, ranging from pale to deep pink.
✔ Contains higher amounts of iron, giving it a distinct pink hue.
✔ Well-marketed and widely used worldwide.
✔ Features larger, clearer crystals compared to Garmsar salt.

✅ Garmsar Salt (Iranian Pink Salt):
✔ More color variations (pink, red, white, and even orange).
✔ Contains higher calcium content, beneficial for bone health.
✔ Purity is generally higher and less processed than Himalayan salt.
✔ Mined in Iran and offers better affordability compared to Himalayan salt.

Nutritional Comparison: Himalayan Salt vs. Garmsar Salt (per 100g)

✔ Garmsar salt has more calcium and magnesium, while Himalayan salt contains more iron.

Which Salt is Better?

✔ If you’re looking for a globally recognized pink salt with a consistent pink color, Himalayan salt is a great option.
✔ If you prefer a more mineral-rich, purer, and cost-effective alternative, Iranian pink salt from Garmsar is the better choice.

Final Verdict:

Both salts offer excellent quality and the differences mainly lie in mineral content, appearance, and marketing. If nutrition and affordability matter to you, Iranian Garmsar salt is a fantastic choice with great benefits!

International Code for Himalayan Salt and Iranian Pink Salt

In the salt industry, each type of mineral salt has international standard codes or HS (Harmonized System) codes, which are used for import, export, and product identification.

Himalayan Salt (Pakistan) Code:

📌 HS Code: 25010010
📌 Definition: Natural, unrefined salt extracted from the Himalayan mines in Pakistan.

Iranian Pink Salt (Garmsar) Code:

📌 HS Code: 25010010 (same as Himalayan salt, but with Iran as the country of origin in export documents)
📌 Definition: Natural mineral salt extracted from the Garmsar mines in Iran.

Important Note:

The HS code for mineral salt is generally the same (25010010) worldwide. However, the country of origin stated in export documents determines whether the salt is from Pakistan, Iran, or other countries.