Salt
What is Salt?
Salt, chemically known as sodium chloride (NaCl), is a mineral compound essential for life. It is primarily obtained through the evaporation of seawater or brine from underground deposits, or by mining rock salt. After extraction, it is typically cleaned, crushed, and sometimes refined.
Is Salt vegan?
Salt is not animal-derived. Products that contain it can still include other animal-derived ingredients, so check the full ingredient list.
Is Salt a major allergen?
Not a major allergen.
What is Salt used for?
Salt is widely used in food manufacturing as a flavor enhancer, making foods taste better and more savory.
Is Salt safe?
Salt is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Why it's used
Salt is widely used in food manufacturing as a flavor enhancer, making foods taste better and more savory. It also acts as a preservative by drawing out moisture and inhibiting the growth of bacteria and molds, extending the shelf life of many products. It is found in almost all processed foods, including snacks, baked goods, cured meats, and canned vegetables.
Health notes
Salt is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While sodium is an essential nutrient, high intake of sodium is associated with increased blood pressure in some individuals. The FDA's Daily Value for sodium is 2,300 mg per day. JECFA (the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives) has evaluated sodium chloride.
Allergen info
Not a major allergen.
Foods that contain Salt
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