Evaporated Sea Salt
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What it is
Evaporated sea salt is a natural salt produced by evaporating seawater, typically through sun and wind exposure. It is primarily composed of sodium chloride, along with trace amounts of other minerals naturally present in seawater, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium.
Why it's used
Manufacturers add evaporated sea salt to foods primarily as a flavor enhancer, bringing out the taste of other ingredients. It also functions as a preservative, helping to extend the shelf life of products by inhibiting microbial growth. It is commonly found in a wide range of packaged foods, including baked goods, cereals, and snack foods.
Health notes
In the United States, salt (sodium chloride) is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Sodium is an essential nutrient, vital for fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. However, high intake of sodium can be a concern, with the FDA's Daily Value for sodium set at 2,300 mg. While JECFA has evaluated sodium chloride, its primary health implications relate to overall sodium intake, which, if excessive, is linked to increased blood pressure in some individuals.
Allergen info
Evaporated sea salt is not a major allergen and is not derived from any of the nine major FDA allergens.