Does all Morton salt have iodine? The truth behind the label

November 9, 2025 •

4 min read

Since 1924, when Morton first began selling iodized salt to address a widespread health issue, many have come to assume that all of their products contain this vital nutrient. The truth is more nuanced, and the answer to 'Does all Morton salt have iodine?' depends entirely on the specific product you purchase.

Quick Summary

Not all Morton salt products are iodized; several varieties, including kosher salt and some sea salts, are intentionally sold without added iodine. This depends on the specific product, and consumers should always check the packaging to verify. Iodized salt helps prevent iodine deficiency, but non-iodized options cater to specific cooking needs and dietary preferences.

Key Points

Not all Morton salt is iodized: Morton offers both iodized and non-iodized versions of various products, including its well-known table salt.
Kosher salt is non-iodized: Morton Coarse Kosher Salt is intentionally non-iodized, which is preferred for certain culinary uses like brining.
Sea salt can be either: Morton produces both natural (non-iodized) and iodized sea salt; the packaging specifies which is which.
Check the label: The most reliable way to determine if a specific Morton product contains iodine is to read the ingredient statement and claims on the packaging.
Iodine has a health purpose: The addition of iodine is a public health initiative to prevent iodine deficiency disorders, which can affect thyroid function and development.
Additive differences: Iodized table salt contains stabilizers (like dextrose) to preserve the iodine, which is not present in non-iodized varieties like kosher salt.

Not All Morton Salts Contain Iodine

It is a common misconception that all salt produced by the Morton company is iodized. While Morton is famous for its iodized table salt, it offers a wide range of products, many of which are non-iodized to suit specific culinary and dietary needs. The key difference lies in checking the label, as products with added iodine are clearly marked.

For example, Morton's famous table salt is available in both iodized and non-iodized versions, allowing consumers to choose based on their needs. In contrast, products like Morton Coarse Kosher Salt and Morton Fine Sea Salt are specifically marketed as non-iodized.

The Purpose of Added Iodine in Salt

Iodine is an essential micronutrient that is critical for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, which in turn regulates metabolism, growth, and development. The practice of adding iodine to table salt was introduced in the 1920s to combat widespread iodine deficiency disorders, such as goiter.

Before fortification, iodine deficiency was a major public health problem in certain regions, particularly inland areas where the soil contained low levels of natural iodine. By iodizing salt, which is a staple ingredient in most diets, health authorities found an effective and low-cost way to deliver this essential mineral to the general population.

Today, iodized salt remains a crucial tool for preventing iodine deficiency, particularly for at-risk groups such as pregnant women, those on vegan diets, or people living in iodine-poor regions. However, those who already get sufficient iodine from other dietary sources (like seafood, dairy, and eggs) or those with specific medical conditions may prefer non-iodized options.

Identifying Iodized and Non-Iodized Morton Salts

When purchasing Morton products, you must pay attention to the packaging to determine if it contains added iodine. This is not a matter of brand consistency but of product type and labeling.

Here are some common Morton salt types and their iodine status:

Morton Iodized Table Salt: This is the classic product and is clearly labeled as iodized. It contains iodide to support thyroid function.
Morton Table Salt (Plain): Also available and explicitly labeled as "Plain," this version does not contain added iodine.
Morton Kosher Salt: A favorite of many chefs for its coarse flake crystals, Morton Kosher Salt is a non-iodized product. The non-iodized nature is important for certain applications like brining and pickling.
Morton Sea Salt: Morton offers both natural (non-iodized) and iodized versions of its sea salt. The natural variety is advertised as additive-free, while the iodized version is marked for its iodine content.
Morton Canning & Pickling Salt: This is a non-iodized salt designed for canning and pickling to prevent cloudiness in preserves.

Why are some salts non-iodized?

There are several reasons why non-iodized salt is preferred for certain uses:

Culinary applications: For some chefs, the additives in iodized salt (like dextrose, which is added to stabilize the iodine) can subtly alter the flavor or appearance of foods. Non-iodized salts are often preferred for baking, brining, and pickling.
Dietary preference: Individuals with adequate iodine intake from other foods, or those with thyroid conditions sensitive to iodine, may opt for non-iodized varieties.
Purity for specific processes: For applications like water softening or making bath salts, additives are undesirable.

Comparison Table: Morton Salt Varieties


Feature	Morton Iodized Table Salt	Morton Coarse Kosher Salt	Morton Fine Sea Salt (Non-Iodized)
Iodine Content	Contains added iodine (potassium iodide)	Non-iodized	Non-iodized
Texture	Fine, uniform crystals	Coarse, flakey crystals	Fine crystals
Best For	All-purpose cooking, baking, and seasoning	Brining, grilling, rubs, and finishing	Baking, soups, sauces, and marinades
Additives	Contains anti-caking agent and dextrose	Contains a water-soluble anti-caking agent	Contains anti-caking agent (typically calcium silicate)
Source	Inland deposits	Inland deposits (compaction process)	Evaporation from the Great Salt Lake

The Importance of Reading the Label

As seen in the comparison, assuming all Morton salt is iodized can lead to inaccuracies in both cooking and nutrition. If you rely on salt for your daily iodine intake, choosing an explicitly labeled iodized product is essential. However, if you are selecting a salt for a specific recipe that requires a non-iodized variety, checking the label will prevent you from accidentally introducing an unwanted additive or flavor profile. For general health questions about iodine intake, it is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional.

Conclusion: A Matter of Choice

In conclusion, it is a definitive myth that all Morton salt has iodine. Morton is a brand that offers a variety of products to serve different purposes, with some containing added iodine and others remaining non-iodized. The availability of both options gives consumers the flexibility to choose the right salt for their culinary needs and dietary health. To make the correct choice, simply read the product label, which clearly states whether or not iodine has been added. This simple act ensures you get the product that aligns with your cooking application or nutritional goals. For further information, visit the official Morton Salt website at mortonsalt.com/faq/.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Morton Kosher Salt is specifically non-iodized. This is one of the key differences between it and Morton's standard iodized table salt.

You can tell if a Morton salt product has iodine by reading the label on the packaging. Iodized products will clearly state 'This salt supplies iodide, a necessary nutrient,' while non-iodized products will not.

People use non-iodized salt for specific culinary purposes, such as canning, pickling, or baking, where the trace amounts of additives in iodized salt can slightly alter the result. Some chefs also prefer its flavor profile.

If you consume other rich dietary sources of iodine, such as seafood and dairy, you may not need iodized salt to meet your daily intake requirements. A healthcare professional can provide personalized advice on your iodine needs.

Morton offers both iodized and natural (non-iodized) sea salt products. You must check the packaging to confirm the iodine content.

Some research suggests that iodine content in salt can decrease with exposure to heat, light, and moisture, especially during prolonged cooking. To maximize iodine intake, it is best to add iodized salt closer to the end of cooking or at the table.

No, neither is inherently healthier than the other, as both contain similar sodium levels. The choice depends on your specific iodine intake goals and culinary preferences. Both should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.