Table Salt

Table Salt

Table salt, also known as Sodium Chloride, is a crystalline mineral substance that is used primarily as a seasoning in food. It is one of the oldest and most ubiquitous food seasonings, and salting is an important method of food preservation.

History

The history of table salt dates back to ancient times. It has been used by humans for thousands of years, both as a method of preserving food and as a flavor enhancer. The word "salary" was derived from the word "salt". Salt was highly valued and its production was legally restricted in ancient times, so it was historically used as a method of trade and currency.

Production

Table salt is produced by evaporation of seawater or by mining rock salt. Rock salt can be directly ground and used as table salt, but it can also be refined to remove other minerals. The refining process also adds anti-caking agents to prevent clumping.

Uses

Table salt is primarily used as a flavor enhancer in food. It is also used in cooking, baking, and food preservation. In addition, it has several non-food uses, such as in soap making, dyeing, and as a cleaning agent.

Health Effects

While table salt is necessary for human life, overconsumption can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure and heart disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults consume less than 5 grams of salt per day.

See Also

• Sea Salt
• Himalayan Salt
• Salt in History
• Health Effects of Salt