What is sea salt?
Sea salt is salt that is obtained from evaporated seawater. Unlike traditional table salt, which is obtained from underground salt deposits, sea salt is a natural source of salt and often still contains trace elements and minerals such as iodine, calcium and magnesium, which distinguish it from ordinary table salt. Depending on which sea the salt comes from, it can also have different colors, from white to gray to pink. Sea salt is often used in the kitchen for cooking and seasoning dishes, but also in the cosmetics industry as an ingredient in skin care products.
How is sea salt obtained?
Sea salt is obtained by the evaporation of sea water. There are different methods to obtain sea salt, but in general the extraction takes place in the following steps:
- Seawater is drained into shallow pools or ponds.
- The water is evaporated by the sun and wind, so the salt settles and begins to crystallize.
- The crystallized salt is then harvested, either by hand or using special machines that skim the salt from the surface.
- The extracted salt is cleaned to remove impurities and moisture and then further processed or sold directly.
It is important to note that the way sea salt is obtained can affect the taste, color, and texture of the salt. For example, sea salt mined in shallow pools may have a coarser texture than sea salt mined in closed pools.
How healthy is sea salt?
Sea salt and regular table salt have essentially the same sodium content per gram, so as with table salt, sea salt consumption should be limited to avoid excessive sodium intake, which can be linked to a number of health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
However, some people prefer sea salt because of its taste and the trace elements and minerals it may contain. Some of the minerals found in sea salt, such as magnesium and calcium, are important for health.
However, it is important to note that the mineral and trace element content in sea salt is very low and therefore it should not be considered a significant source of these nutrients.
Overall, sea salt can be a healthy alternative to table salt when used in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. As with all foods, it is important to pay attention to portion size and total sodium intake to support a healthy diet.
What is the difference between sea salt and regular salt?
Sea salt and regular salt differ mainly in their origin and taste.
Sea salt is obtained by the evaporation of seawater and typically contains a higher concentration of minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium, as well as trace elements such as iodine, iron and zinc. Because of this higher mineral composition, sea salt is often considered more "natural" than traditional salt.
Normal salt, on the other hand, is often obtained from salt mines or salt deposits. It can also be made by evaporating brine, a concentrated solution of salt and water. In contrast to sea salt, it usually contains fewer minerals and trace elements.
Sea salt and normal salt can also differ in taste. Some people prefer the taste of sea salt due to its higher mineral content and lighter grain. Others prefer the taste of regular salt, as it is often perceived as less bitter and less salty.
However, it is important to note that sea salt and regular salt are similar in terms of their chemical structure and their effects on the body. Both types of salt contain sodium chloride, which when consumed in large quantities can lead to high blood pressure and other health problems. It is recommended to reduce overall salt consumption and use alternative spices and herbs to improve the taste of foods.
