Iodised Salt: A simple solution to prevent iodine deficiency - for a healthy body and mind
What is iodised salt?
Iodised salt is salt enriched with a small, carefully measured amount of iodine - a vital micronutrient that the human body cannot produce on its own. This fortification is widely recognised by global health authorities, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), as one of the most effective ways to prevent iodine deficiency worldwide.
How is iodised salt made?
The process of iodisation involves adding iodine compounds, such as potassium iodate, in liquid form onto the dried salt, following the actual salt production process. This cost-effective method uses established technologies, is safe for human consumption, and does not alter the taste, smell, or appearance of salt. Today, over 120 countries have implemented salt iodisation programmes, making it one of the most successful nutrition interventions globally.
Why is iodine important for the human body?
Iodine is an essential component of thyroid hormones, which are critical for:
- Supporting normal growth and development
- Maintaining a balanced metabolism
- Ensuring healthy brain development, especially during pregnancy and early childhood
Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable population groups. Adequate iodine intake and iodine status before and during pregnancy are crucial. Insufficient iodine intake during pregnancy can impair a child’s brain development, leading to learning difficulties, reduced IQ, and developmental delays.
Why use salt as a carrier for iodine?
In our diets, salt is consumed regularly in small amounts by almost everyone, making it the perfect vehicle for delivering iodine to the entire population - regardless of age, gender, or income. Salt iodisation is:
- Cost-effective – Affordable for both producers and consumers
- Efficient – Uses existing production and distribution systems, making it easy to reach all groups of people
- Safe – Meets strict quality standards and does not affect taste
The European perspective and EUsalt’s commitment
While much progress has been made globally, iodine deficiency and related disorders are still a public health concern in parts of Europe. The WHO and the Iodine Global Network (IGN) emphasise the need for sustained action and better implementation and monitoring of national iodisation programmes.
EUsalt actively advocates for the wider adoption and proper implementation of salt iodisation across Europe. Through policy engagement, public awareness campaigns, and stakeholder collaboration, we work to ensure that iodised salt is recognised as a simple, proven solution for improving public health.
In March 2025, EUsalt co-hosted a breakfast event at the European Parliament with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), public health experts, and industry representatives to discuss the urgent need for stronger iodine nutrition policies in the EU. This was followed by a joint statement with health organisations calling for:
- Harmonised EU-wide approaches to iodised salt
- Support for national monitoring programmes
- Clear communication to consumers about the benefits of iodine
The 2024 WHO & IGN report reaffirms that iodised salt is the most effective public health strategy for preventing iodine deficiency. EUsalt stands ready to support policymakers, industry, and civil society in making universal salt iodisation a reality across Europe.
