Salt - What is it?

What is Salt?

Salt is a naturally occurring mineral commonly used as a seasoning and preservative in food, chemicals manufacture, detergents, and water treatment products. Salt is essential for human health and is a component of many bodily functions, including regulating fluid balance and supporting nerve and muscle function.

Typically sourced from either underground mines, salt is extracted by drilling or blasting the rock and then crushing it into small pieces. In sea salt production, seawater is collected and evaporated to leave behind the salt crystals. The salt is then cleaned, refined, and packaged for use. In addition to traditional methods of salt production, there are also newer technologies. These methods include vacuum salt production, which involves evaporating the brine under a vacuum to produce high-purity salt crystals. Regardless of the route, salt production requires careful attention to ensure the purity and quality of the final product.

Salt is a versatile ingredient used in multiple applications and products. In the food industry, salt is used as a seasoning to enhance the flavour of various dishes. It is also used as a preservative to extend the shelf life of processed foods such as cured meats, pickles, and snacks. Beyond food, Salt applications include chemicals, detergents, and water treatment products.

Outside of the food and chemical industries, salt is within a variety of other applications. For example, it is a de-icer on roads and pavements, glass and ceramics production and the tanning industry for leather processing. With its many uses and applications, salt is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in our daily lives.