Mineral composition of different types of kitchen salts

Abstract

Introduction: There is strong evidence showing an association between high sodium intake and the development of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and other metabolic complications. Although kitchen salt is an ingredient widely used by the population, the scientific literature about the study of its composition is scarce. Therefore, it is extremely important to know the composition of salts that are frequently used in cooking. Objective: To analyze the chemical composition of different types of cooking salts: refined/common, Himalayan pink, marine, and light. Parallel to this, pricing and labels were also analyzed to correlate with the chemical analysis. Method: The determination of minerals was performed by the method 3050-B rev.02 / SMEWW 3111-B and the quantification of metal levels was made by flame atomic absorption spectrometry. Result: Significant differences were observed in the amount of minerals found in salts of the same nature from different brands. The results showed that the Himalayan pink salt had the highest levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and sodium compared to other types of salts (p <0.05). Analyzing pricing and labeling information, prices were significantly different between products, and there was also a lack of information about their chemical composition. Conclusion: Results demonstrate that there are differences in the mineral composition of salts and indicate the need to identify the composition in the labels, thus enabling the population to make a cost-benefit assessment regarding the best type of salt and/or brand through their labels.

Keywords

• cloreto de sódio. micronutrientes. hipertensão.