Microplastic Contamination: A Growing Concern
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, smaller than 5mm, that result from the degradation of plastic waste in the environment. Their widespread presence in oceans, lakes, and even the air means they are frequently incorporated into salt derived from these sources. This is particularly true for sea salt, which is produced by evaporating seawater that is increasingly contaminated by plastic pollution. A landmark 2018 study found that over 90% of the salt brands tested contained microplastics, with levels correlating strongly with plastic emissions in the source regions. This has led many health-conscious consumers to question the purity of their salt and seek alternatives.
Where to Find Salt with Minimal or No Microplastics
While achieving a complete absence of microplastics in any product is challenging in today's world, some salts are significantly less likely to be contaminated due to their origin and processing. The cleanest options generally come from sources protected from modern pollution.
Spring Salt: Sourced from ancient underground aquifers or deep mountain springs, this salt is harvested from water that has not been exposed to contemporary plastic pollution. The water, rich in natural minerals, is naturally evaporated to produce the salt. Brands like Vera Salt and Only Salt have built their reputation on this pristine sourcing, with third-party testing confirming their products are free of microplastics.
Ancient Rock Salt: Mined from underground deposits created millions of years ago, rock salts like Redmond Real Salt and some types of blue salt are naturally shielded from modern environmental contaminants. The Utah-based Redmond Real Salt, for instance, comes from an ancient seabed in a prehistoric environment untouched by recent pollution. Some rock salts like Himalayan pink salt, however, may still show some contamination, potentially introduced during processing and packaging.
Filtered Sea Salt: A few innovative sea salt producers are addressing the microplastic problem head-on through advanced filtration. Jacobsen Salt Co., which sources its salt from the Oregon Coast, publicly claims to filter out microplastic particles using fine micron filters. This offers a promising solution for those who prefer the flavor of sea salt but are concerned about contaminants.
Choosing a Microplastic-Free Salt Brand
To make an informed choice, consumers should prioritize transparency and sourcing methods. Looking for specific certifications and testing can provide assurance.
- Seek Third-Party Testing: The most reliable way to confirm a salt's purity is to find brands that publicly post their third-party lab test results. These tests verify the absence or levels of microplastics and heavy metals.
- Investigate Sourcing: Researching where and how the salt is harvested is crucial. Salts from ancient, protected deposits or carefully filtered sources are generally safer than those from open, modern oceans.
- Consider Packaging: Contamination can also occur during packaging. Look for salts packaged in non-plastic materials like cardboard, glass jars, or compostable potato starch bags.
- Prioritize Less Refined Salts: Heavily processed table salts often undergo refining that can strip away minerals and may involve anti-caking agents that can be a source of contaminants. Opting for minimally processed salts with transparent production practices is a better approach.
Comparative Table: Microplastic Contamination in Different Salts
| Salt Type | Source | Microplastic Risk | Trace Minerals | Processing Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Salt | Ancient underground springs, Spain/Andes | Very Low/None (Tested) | High (Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium) | Hand-harvested, sun-bleached, minimal |
| Ancient Rock Salt (e.g., Redmond) | Ancient, protected seabed deposits, Utah | Very Low | High (60+ minerals) | Mined from protected environment, minimal |
| Filtered Sea Salt (e.g., Jacobsen) | Modern oceans with filtration | Very Low (After filtration) | Present, but can vary by location | Filtered during evaporation to remove particles |
| Himalayan Pink Salt | Khewra Salt Mine, Pakistan | Moderate to High | Contains trace minerals | Mined, but processing/packaging can introduce microplastics |
| Standard Sea Salt | Modern, open oceans | Highest Risk | Varies by source region | Evaporated seawater, risk correlated with marine pollution |
| Refined Table Salt | Various sources, often processed | Variable Risk (May involve chemical washing) | Stripped of most minerals | Heavily processed, often with anti-caking additives |
How to Reduce Your Microplastic Exposure
Beyond choosing a cleaner salt, reducing overall microplastic consumption is a broader goal for better health. Tiny plastic particles are ubiquitous, found in bottled water, processed foods, and even airborne dust.
- Avoid Single-Use Plastics: Reduce your use of plastic bottles, food containers, and disposable cutlery to limit your contribution to environmental plastic pollution.
- Filter Your Water: Use a certified water filter, such as a reverse osmosis system, to remove microplastics from your tap water.
- Choose Better Kitchenware: Opt for glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food storage instead of plastic, especially when reheating food.
- Support Sustainable Brands: Make purchasing decisions that favor companies prioritizing sustainable, plastic-free production and packaging.
Conclusion
For those seeking salt with virtually no microplastics, options derived from protected underground sources are the most reliable. Spring salts and ancient rock salts from specific, tested brands provide the greatest assurance of purity, with some manufacturers of sea salt also employing high-tech filtration. While it's nearly impossible to eliminate microplastic exposure entirely, a proactive approach to sourcing your salt and other food items is a crucial step toward minimizing your intake of these pervasive contaminants.
Resources and Further Reading
- Microplastic Contamination in Salt: Environmental Science & Technology journal article showing high prevalence in global salt brands.
- Health Concerns of Microplastics: Information from the EWG detailing sources and reduction strategies.
