Salt — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Quality salt should be pure white or have a natural color specific to its type, like pink for Himalayan or gray for sea salt. It should be free from any dirt or debris to ensure it is uncontaminated.

Do not use salt that appears clumpy or damp, as this can indicate exposure to moisture, which affects its ability to sprinkle evenly. Salt that has a chemical smell or taste should also be avoided, as it suggests contamination.

Salt should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Keeping it in the pantry helps maintain its texture and prevents clumping. Properly stored, salt can last indefinitely.

Exposure to moisture can cause salt to clump and lose its effectiveness. Avoid storing it near heat sources or in humid environments. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to keep out moisture and maintain its quality.

Salt can last indefinitely when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Proper storage helps maintain its quality and effectiveness.

Leftover salt can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, salt is essential for seasoning, preserving, and enhancing the flavor of dishes. It’s used in everything from soups and sauces to baked goods and marinades. Salt can also be used in pickling and curing meats, as well as in baking to control the fermentation of yeast.

Beyond cooking, salt has numerous household uses. It can be used as a natural abrasive for cleaning surfaces, scrubbing pots and pans, and removing stains. Salt can also be used in homemade beauty treatments, such as mixing it with oil to create an exfoliating body scrub. Additionally, salt can be used in DIY crafts, such as making salt dough ornaments or using it as a natural preservative for flowers. Salt is also effective in natural remedies, such as gargling with salt water to soothe a sore throat or using it in a saline solution for nasal irrigation.