Pure Salt

Pure salt, also known as sodium chloride, is a mineral compound made of sodium and chloride. It is primarily obtained through the evaporation of seawater or by mining from underground salt deposits.

Manufacturers add salt to foods mainly as a flavor enhancer, as it can bring out and balance other tastes. It also functions as a preservative by drawing out moisture, which helps inhibit the growth of microbes. Salt is a common ingredient in a wide variety of processed foods, including baked goods, snacks, and prepared meals.

Salt is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While sodium is an essential nutrient for human health, a high intake of sodium is associated with increased blood pressure in some people. The FDA's Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 milligrams per day. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated salt and, as an essential nutrient, did not set a specific acceptable daily intake.