Monitoring of iodine supplementation in table salts by ICP-MS and possible health risks of iodine deficiency in Algeria

Abstract

Introduction: Iodine deficiency can cause several diseases in children and adults. Therefore, it is important to monitor iodine supplementation. The present study aimed to evaluate the Iodine levels in table salts consumed in Algeria. Materials and method: A total of 81 salt samples were purchased from different retailers. Iodine levels were determined using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry after digestion procedure. Statistical analysis and data visualization were performed using Rstudio 4.2.2 software. Results and discussion: In total, 11 products mentioned the iodine content in their packaging, 05 products mentioned an iodine level which did not in accordance with the Algerian regulations (50.55–84.25 mg/kg). In addition, iodine content varied in the samples of the same brand, indicating a poor reproducibility in the process of iodination. Additionally, 26 samples were free of iodine and only 03 products respected the recommendation of the World Health Organization regarding iodine content in table salts (20–40 mg/kg). Conclusion: The analysed table salt samples were not compliant to national and/or international regulations, exposing to an iodine deficiency that could impacts negatively consumers’ health. Thus, it is essential to strengthen the quality control of dietary salts and to set up a nutrivigilance system.

Keywords

• Iodine
• Table salt
• Quality control
• Food safety
• Iodine deficiency