The Myth of Shared Identity
The most common point of confusion for consumers is the name itself. The brand 'Real Salt' is a specific product name for an unrefined salt mined by the company Redmond in Utah, USA. Pink Himalayan salt, on the other hand, is a general type of rock salt harvested from the Punjab region of Pakistan, near the Himalayan foothills. The notion that pink Himalayan salt is a type of Real Salt is a misunderstanding of this key commercial and geographical difference. Both are ancient, unrefined sea salts, but their source is different, which leads to subtle variations in taste and composition.
Origins: Pakistan vs. Utah
Pink Himalayan Salt
This salt's origins trace back over 500 million years to an ancient sea that evaporated, leaving behind expansive mineral deposits. These deposits were sealed by intense pressure and tectonic activity, becoming hermetically protected under layers of rock within the Salt Range mountains in modern-day Pakistan. Hand-mined from the Khewra Salt Mine, one of the oldest and largest in the world, the product is minimally processed, preserving its natural state.
- Location: Khewra Salt Mine in the Punjab region of Pakistan.
- Method: Traditionally hand-mined using room and pillar techniques.
- Purity: Protected by layers of rock from modern-day pollutants.
Real Salt
Real Salt is also an ancient sea salt, but its history is uniquely American. It comes from an ancient, underground salt deposit located in Redmond, Utah, which was once covered by the Sundance Sea. Like its Pakistani counterpart, this deposit was protected for millions of years by volcanic ash and clay, keeping it free from modern contamination. The salt is mined sustainably by the company Redmond, which emphasizes ethical labor and environmental practices.
- Location: Redmond, Utah, USA.
- Method: Sustainably mined from an underground deposit.
- Purity: Protected from pollutants by natural geological layers.
Mineral Composition: A Closer Look
Both salts are primarily sodium chloride but contain a host of other trace minerals that contribute to their color and flavor. The iconic pink hue in both is largely due to the presence of iron oxide. While advocates for both salts tout their rich mineral content, it is important to note that the quantities of these trace elements are very small and unlikely to provide significant nutritional benefits.
Comparing Himalayan and Real Salt
| Feature | Pink Himalayan Salt | Real Salt |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Punjab region, Pakistan | Redmond, Utah, USA |
| Primary Mineral | Sodium Chloride (approx. 96-99%) | Sodium Chloride (approx. 98%) |
| Trace Minerals | Over 80 trace minerals including iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium. | Over 60 trace minerals including iron, calcium, and potassium. |
| Color Source | Iron oxide and other minerals | Iron oxide and other minerals |
| Flavor | Earthier flavor profile. | Slightly sweeter flavor profile. |
Flavor Profile Differences
For most cooks, the slight differences in flavor are a matter of preference. Side-by-side taste tests have revealed that Real Salt tends to be a bit sweeter, while pink Himalayan salt possesses a more pronounced earthy flavor. These subtle variations stem from the slightly different mineral compositions locked away in their respective ancient deposits. The larger crystal size often associated with these unrefined salts also provides a distinct textural crunch when used as a finishing salt.
Culinary Uses and Preferences
Both salts are incredibly versatile and can be used interchangeably in most culinary applications. Their aesthetic appeal, especially in coarse form, makes them popular finishing salts for dishes like roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and salads. The choice between them often comes down to personal taste preference and perhaps a consideration of origin.
- Finishing Salt: Sprinkle coarse-ground crystals over finished dishes for texture and flavor.
- Brining and Cooking: Both fine- and coarse-ground versions can be used in marinades and for general cooking.
- Cooking Blocks: Large blocks of pink Himalayan salt are used as cooking surfaces for grilling and searing.
Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Beyond flavor and minerals, some consumers consider the environmental and ethical impact of their salt. Because Real Salt is mined in the USA, it has a shorter travel distance for North American consumers, reducing the associated carbon footprint. The company Redmond also highlights its sustainable mining practices and ethical labor policies. While Himalayan salt is often mined using traditional methods, the environmental and labor practices can vary by supplier. For those who prioritize a locally sourced product with verified sustainability credentials, Real Salt may be the preferred option.
Conclusion
In summary, pink Himalayan salt is definitively not Real Salt. They are distinct, unrefined salts from different ancient sea deposits in different parts of the world. While their core composition is similar, their unique geographical origins result in subtle differences in mineral traces and flavor. The idea that one is universally 'better' is largely a marketing claim, as the nutritional differences are insignificant due to the tiny mineral quantities. Ultimately, the choice between them comes down to personal taste, desired texture, and your priorities regarding sourcing and sustainability. You can find more information about Real Salt's specific sourcing and production at Redmond.life.
