Understanding Redmond Real Salt and its Natural Mineral Content
Redmond Real Salt is a popular unrefined salt, revered for its natural mineral content and distinct flavor. Mined from an ancient sea salt deposit in Central Utah, it has remained protected from modern pollutants by layers of volcanic ash. Unlike highly processed table salt, which is stripped of most of its trace minerals and often bleached, Real Salt is simply harvested and packaged, allowing it to retain the full spectrum of minerals nature provided. Among these more than 60 trace minerals is a small, naturally occurring amount of iodine.
Natural vs. Added Iodine: A Key Distinction
The most important detail to understand about the iodine in Redmond Real Salt is that it is naturally occurring, not added. This is a crucial distinction from conventional iodized table salt. When salt is refined to create the bright white crystals found in most shakers, the naturally present minerals, including any trace iodine, are removed. Salt manufacturers then add a stabilizing compound like potassium iodide to fortify the product and prevent iodine deficiency in the population. Redmond, however, chooses to leave its salt in its pure, unrefined state. This means no anti-caking agents, no bleaching, and no artificial fortification with iodine.
The Role of Naturally Occurring Iodine
While Redmond Real Salt contains natural iodine, it is not a primary dietary source. For instance, a 1/4 teaspoon serving provides about 18-23 micrograms of naturally-occurring iodine, which is just over 10% of the Institute of Medicine's recommended daily allowance of 150 micrograms. The FDA mandates that Redmond state on its packaging that the salt is not a source of iodide, which is a common source of confusion. This label does not mean the salt contains zero iodine, but rather that the amount present does not qualify it as an artificially fortified source. For individuals concerned about meeting their daily iodine needs, relying solely on Redmond Real Salt is not recommended.
Iodine and Thyroid Health
Iodine is an essential micronutrient vital for proper thyroid function, which regulates metabolism and development. Historically, adding iodine to salt was a widespread public health measure to combat endemic iodine deficiency, particularly in regions far from coastal areas. This intervention helped to dramatically reduce cases of goiter and other thyroid-related issues. However, with the rise of unrefined salt alternatives like Redmond Real Salt and the increased consumption of processed foods (which often use non-iodized salt), it's important to consider alternative sources of iodine.
Alternative Dietary Sources of Iodine
For those who use Redmond Real Salt for its rich mineral profile and superior taste but need to ensure adequate iodine intake, a variety of other foods can easily fill the gap. Excellent dietary sources of iodine include:
- Seaweed, such as kelp, nori, kombu, and wakame
- Fish and shellfish, including cod, tuna, shrimp, and oysters
- Dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese
- Eggs
- Iodine supplements or fortified multivitamins, especially for pregnant or breastfeeding women
- Some bread and grains, though levels can vary widely
Comparison: Redmond Real Salt vs. Iodized Table Salt
| Feature | Redmond Real Salt | Iodized Table Salt |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Ancient, protected sea bed in Central Utah | Harvested from seawater or rock salt, then heavily processed |
| Processing | Unrefined, minimally processed | Highly refined, bleached, and heat-processed |
| Iodine Content | Naturally occurring trace amounts (18-23 mcg per 1/4 tsp) | Fortified with added iodine for specific RDA levels |
| Minerals | Contains over 60 natural trace minerals | Stripped of most natural minerals, containing primarily sodium chloride |
| Additives | Contains no additives, anti-caking agents, or dextrose | Often contains anti-caking agents to prevent clumping |
| Taste | Subtly sweet and rich flavor due to minerals | Purely salty taste |
Is One Salt Better Than the Other?
There is no single "best" salt for everyone; the choice depends on dietary needs and preferences. For those prioritizing a natural, unprocessed product with a complex flavor profile and a wide range of minerals, Redmond Real Salt is an excellent choice. However, those with a specific concern for iodine intake, or who live in an iodine-deficient region and have limited access to other sources, may need to use fortified table salt or supplement their diet. The key is to be aware of the differences and make an informed decision based on your personal health needs. As with any dietary component, moderation is recommended for overall health.
Conclusion
In summary, does redmond real salt have iodine in it? Yes, it contains trace amounts of naturally occurring iodine from its ancient mineral source. However, it is not artificially fortified with iodine like conventional iodized table salt. Therefore, Redmond Real Salt should not be considered a reliable source for meeting the full daily recommended iodine intake. Consumers who use this unrefined mineral salt should ensure they are obtaining adequate iodine from other food sources such as seafood, dairy, or supplements to support proper thyroid function. By understanding the distinction between natural and added iodine, you can make the best choice for your dietary needs while still enjoying the rich mineral benefits of Redmond Real Salt.
Visit the Redmond Life website for more information on their salt
