Table Salt 101: Nutrition, Benefits, How To Use, Buy, Store | Table Salt: A Complete Guide

What is Table Salt

Table salt, or sodium chloride, is a common seasoning you probably use in your kitchen every day. It’s made up of tiny crystals of sodium and chlorine, and it’s what gives your food that extra flavor kick. You might find it in a salt shaker on your dining table or in the kitchen cupboard.

People have been using salt for ages not just to make food taste better but also to preserve it and in all sorts of other things. Sometimes, they even add iodine to it to make sure we get enough of it for our bodies.

When you sprinkle salt on your food, it’s not just about taste. It can change how the food feels in your mouth and even how long it stays good to eat. But like everything, too much salt isn’t great for you. It can cause health problems like high blood pressure if you have too much of it.

So, while salt adds a lot to our meals, it’s best to use it in moderation.

Other Names of Table Salt

Table salt goes by a few other names you might have heard before. Some folks call it “common salt” or simply “salt.” In scientific circles, it’s often referred to as “sodium chloride” because it’s made up of those two elements. You might also come across terms like “edible salt” or “rock salt,” depending on where it’s sourced from or how it’s processed. But no matter what you call it, it’s that trusty seasoning that adds flavor to your favorite dishes.

Nutritional Value of Table Salt

Here’s the nutritional value of table salt presented in a tabular form:

Nutrient	Amount per 1g (approx.)
Sodium	387 milligrams
Chloride	613 milligrams

Keep in mind that these values are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the brand or type of table salt. Additionally, table salt is typically not a significant source of other nutrients, as it is mainly composed of sodium and chloride ions.

Benefits of Table Salt

• Enhances flavor: When you sprinkle salt on your food, it’s like adding a secret ingredient that brings out all the tasty flavors. It’s like a chef’s magic touch that makes everything more delicious.
• Food preservation: Back in the day, people used salt to keep their food fresh for longer. It’s like a natural preservative that stops nasty bacteria from ruining your favorite snacks. Just think about all those yummy cured meats and pickles!
• Seasoning: Think of salt as your trusty sidekick in the kitchen. It’s there to jazz up your meals, whether it’s a pinch on your scrambled eggs or a sprinkle on your popcorn. It’s like the finishing touch that takes your dishes from good to great.
• Iodine source: Did you know that some salt has iodine added to it? That’s because iodine is super important for keeping your thyroid gland healthy. So, every time you shake that salt shaker, you’re also looking out for your body.
• Texture improvement: Ever notice how adding a bit of salt can change the texture of your food? It’s like a little culinary magic trick. It can make your bread dough stretchier or give your roasted veggies that perfect crunch.
• Hydration and electrolyte balance: Salt isn’t just about flavor—it’s also about keeping your body in balance. It helps make sure you stay hydrated and keeps your electrolytes in check, so you can feel your best.
• Cooking aid: Whether you’re brining chicken or curing salmon, salt has your back in the kitchen. It’s like a versatile tool that helps you cook up all sorts of tasty dishes.

So next time you reach for the salt, remember all the amazing things it does for your food—and for you!

Varieties of Table Salt

Here are some varieties of table salt you might come across:

• Regular table salt: This is your standard, everyday salt that you find in most kitchens. It’s finely ground and often has iodine added to it for extra nutrition.
• Sea salt: Made by evaporating seawater, sea salt often has a coarser texture and may contain trace minerals that give it a slightly different flavor compared to regular table salt.
• Himalayan pink salt: Mined from ancient salt deposits in the Himalayan mountains, this salt has a distinctive pink hue due to its mineral content. It’s often used as a finishing salt for its unique flavor and appearance.
• Kosher salt: Named for its use in koshering meat, this salt has larger grains compared to regular table salt. It’s commonly used in cooking and has a milder flavor.
• Flavored salt: Some salts are infused with herbs, spices, or other flavorings to add an extra punch to your dishes. You might find varieties like garlic salt, smoked salt, or truffle salt.

Each type of salt has its own unique characteristics and can add a different dimension to your cooking, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite!

What Does Table Salt Taste Like

Table salt has a distinct taste that’s both familiar and essential in cooking. When you taste it on its own, it’s salty, of course, but there’s more to it than just that. It’s a combination of flavors that can be described as savory and slightly mineral-like. Depending on whether it’s iodized or not, you might also detect a subtle hint of iodine.

In food, salt not only adds its own flavor but also enhances the overall taste of dishes by balancing other flavors and bringing out their best qualities. It’s like the conductor in an orchestra, making sure all the flavors harmonize perfectly. So, while salt might seem simple, its taste plays a crucial role in making your meals delicious and satisfying.

How Table Salt is Made

Table salt is typically made through two primary methods: mining and evaporation.

1. Mining: Some table salt is harvested from salt mines. These mines are formed from ancient seabeds that have long since dried up. Miners extract the salt by drilling into the earth and breaking it apart to access the salt deposits. The salt is then crushed into smaller pieces and refined to remove impurities.
2. Evaporation: Another common method involves extracting salt from seawater through evaporation. Seawater is collected and pumped into large shallow ponds called salt pans. The sun and wind work together to evaporate the water, leaving behind salt crystals. These crystals are then collected, washed, and processed to produce table salt. Sometimes, additional refining steps are taken to ensure the salt is pure and free of contaminants.

In both methods, the salt may undergo further processing, such as grinding to achieve the desired particle size and adding iodine for nutritional purposes. Once processed, the salt is ready to be packaged and distributed for use in kitchens around the world.

How To Use Table Salt

Using table salt is as simple as sprinkling it on your food, but there are many ways to incorporate it into your cooking:

1. Seasoning: Sprinkle a pinch of salt over your cooked dishes to enhance their flavor. It can be added to soups, stews, salads, vegetables, meats, and even desserts like cookies and caramel.
2. Boiling water: Add salt to the water when boiling pasta, rice, or potatoes. This seasons the food as it cooks, enhancing its taste.
3. Baking: Salt is a key ingredient in many baked goods, such as bread, cookies, and cakes. It helps to balance flavors and strengthen gluten in dough, improving texture.
4. Brining: Brining involves soaking meat, poultry, or fish in a saltwater solution before cooking. This helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.
5. Curing: Salt can be used to cure foods like bacon, ham, and fish. It draws out moisture from the food, preserving it and adding flavor.
6. Cleaning: Salt can be used as a natural abrasive cleaner for scrubbing pots and pans or removing stains from surfaces.

Remember to use salt in moderation, as excessive consumption can have negative health effects. A little goes a long way in enhancing the flavor of your dishes!

Substitute for Table Salt

If you’re looking for a substitute for table salt, there are several options depending on your dietary needs and preferences:

1. Sea salt: Sea salt is harvested from evaporated seawater and comes in various textures, from fine to coarse. It typically contains trace minerals that can add subtle flavors to your dishes.
2. Himalayan pink salt: Mined from ancient salt deposits, Himalayan pink salt has a distinct pink hue due to its mineral content. It has a mild flavor and can be used as a finishing salt for its unique appearance.
3. Low-sodium salt: If you’re watching your sodium intake, low-sodium or “lite” salt blends are available. These products often contain a mixture of sodium chloride and potassium chloride, which can help reduce sodium levels while still providing a salty taste.
4. Herbs and spices: Instead of relying solely on salt for flavor, experiment with herbs and spices to enhance the taste of your dishes. Options like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and various dried herbs can add depth and complexity to your cooking without increasing sodium intake.
5. Lemon or vinegar: Acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar can brighten flavors and add tanginess to your dishes, reducing the need for salt.

When substituting salt in recipes, it’s essential to adjust the amount based on the saltiness of the alternative you’re using. Start with a smaller amount and taste as you go to achieve the desired flavor balance.

Where to Buy Table Salt

You can find table salt in a variety of places, making it incredibly accessible:

1. Grocery stores: Most grocery stores carry table salt in the condiment aisle. You’ll find it alongside other spices and seasonings.
2. Supermarkets: Larger supermarkets often have a wide selection of table salt, including different brands and varieties like iodized, sea salt, and kosher salt.
3. Convenience stores: Many convenience stores stock basic kitchen essentials, including table salt, for your convenience.
4. Bulk food stores: If you prefer to buy in larger quantities, bulk food stores or warehouse clubs may offer table salt in bulk packaging.
5. Online retailers: You can purchase table salt from various online retailers, including grocery delivery services, specialty food stores, and e-commerce platforms.
6. Farmers’ markets: Some farmers’ markets or specialty food markets may carry artisanal or gourmet varieties of table salt for those looking for unique options.

No matter where you choose to shop, table salt is a staple ingredient that’s readily available for purchase.

How To Store Table Salt

Storing table salt properly can help maintain its quality and prevent clumping or moisture absorption. Here are some tips:

1. Keep it dry: Moisture can cause table salt to clump, so store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. A pantry or cupboard away from sources of heat and humidity, such as the stove or dishwasher, is ideal.
2. Use a salt cellar or dispenser: For easy access and serving, consider transferring your table salt to a salt cellar or dispenser with a lid. This helps protect it from moisture in the air while keeping it easily accessible for cooking and seasoning.
3. Avoid exposure to air: Air exposure can also lead to clumping and degradation of salt quality. Keep the container tightly sealed when not in use to prevent air from getting in.
4. Use desiccants: If you live in a humid climate or struggle with moisture in your pantry, you can add desiccants, such as silica gel packs, to help absorb excess moisture and keep the salt dry.
5. Check for contaminants: Make sure to use clean, dry utensils when scooping salt to avoid introducing contaminants that could affect its quality.

By following these storage tips, you can ensure that your table salt stays fresh and ready to use whenever you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)