Salt primarily consists of sodium chloride (NaCl), but it also contains various other minerals depending on its source and processing method. The types of minerals commonly present in salt include:
- Sodium (Na) and Chloride (Cl) : The main components of salt, making up the bulk of its composition
- Calcium (Ca) : Present in small amounts, important for physiological processes
- Magnesium (Mg) : Found in sea salt and rock salt, contributes to flavor and nutritional value
- Potassium (K) : Another essential mineral often found in minor quantities in salt
- Iron (Fe) : Trace amounts can give some salts, like Himalayan salt, a distinctive color
- Cobalt (Co), Copper (Cu), Selenium (Se), Zinc (Zn) : Trace minerals that may be present and contribute to metabolic functions
- Sulphates (SO4) : Present in some salts, especially those derived from seawater evaporation
- Manganese (Mn) : Found in trace amounts in some natural salts
These minerals vary depending on the salt's origin-sea salt, rock salt, or mined salt-and the method of harvesting or processing. For example, sea salt typically contains a broader spectrum of minerals compared to highly refined table salt, which is mostly pure sodium chloride with added iodine and anti- caking agents
. In summary, while sodium chloride is the primary mineral in salt, natural salts contain a variety of essential trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, and others that contribute to their nutritional and sensory properties
