Chloe Zhang
Sea salt is a staple in kitchens across the globe, used to season and enhance the flavour of our food. However, recent studies have shown that the majority of sea salt brands contain microplastic particles. With plastic pollution in our oceans, it is no surprise that sea salts are contaminated. But are there any sea salts that don't contain plastic? Some brands, such as Vera Salt and Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt, claim to be microplastic-free due to their remote and protected sources. Other options include unrefined sea salt produced by solar evaporation and pure salt without any added anti-caking agents or chemicals. While it may be challenging to completely avoid microplastics in our food, consumers can make informed choices to minimise their consumption.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Percentage of sea salt brands that contain microplastics | 90%-94% |
| Salt types with the least amount of microplastics | Grey Celtic Sea Salt, Redmond Real Salt |
| Salt types with the highest amount of microplastics | Refined salt, mined rock salt, Himalayan salt |
| Impact of microplastics on health | Unknown long-term effects |
| Microplastic-free salt brands | Vera Salt, Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt, Only Salt, Salt of Life, Morton Salt |
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What You'll Learn
Microplastics in sea salt
Microplastics are small particles of plastic, no larger than 5mm, which come from the plastics that pollute our oceans. Over time, these plastics degrade into smaller microplastic particles that enter our food supply through salt, seafood, and other foods. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal: Scientific Reports, 94% of globally tested salt products contained microplastics. Another study found that approximately 90% of all table salt contains microplastics.
The presence of microplastics in sea salt is concerning because it indicates the magnitude of microplastic pollution in the surrounding marine environment. Harvesting technique influences microplastic concentrations in culinary sea salts. Traditionally harvested salts contain fewer microplastics than industrially harvested ones. The median microplastics concentration in 13 European sea salts was 466 ± 152/kg, ranging from 74 to 1155 items kg-1.
The consumption of seafood products is a significant route of exposure to microplastics in humans. Microplastics have been shown to carry hazardous chemicals and microorganisms. They can also cause micro-injuries and release pollutants that were sorbed during their prolonged incubation in the water.
While the long-term effects of microplastics on human health are unknown, it is cause for concern. To reduce exposure to microplastics, some recommend using pure salt that does not contain any anti-caking agents or other added chemicals. However, it is important to note that even refined and mined rock salts have been found to contain microplastics, indicating that they were introduced during processing, packaging, transportation, or after purchase.
Some microplastic-free salt brands include Vera Salt, which is sourced from an ancient spring in Spain, and Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt, which is located 600 meters above sea level and far from any industrial establishments. These salts are harvested by hand using traditional methods and offer plastic-free packaging.
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Plastic-free sea salt brands
It is a sad truth that most sea salt contains microplastics. However, there are a few brands that offer plastic-free sea salt.
One option is Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt, sourced from 600 meters above sea level, far from any industrial establishments. This salt is organic, unrefined, and rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium, making it a perfect option for baking and gourmet meals. Another option with a similar name, Vera Salt, is sourced from an ancient spring in the foothills of Spain, over 2000 feet above sea level. This salt is also rich in natural minerals like calcium, potassium, and magnesium.
If you're looking for a salt with the least amount of microplastics, Grey Celtic Sea Salt and Redmond Real Salt are good options, according to one source. Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Environmental Science & Pollution in July 2022 found that microplastic contamination was higher in terrestrial salts, such as Himalayan pink salt, compared to marine salts. So, opting for a marine salt may be a good choice.
Finally, Only Spring Salt is a plastic-free option sourced from a natural spring deep in the Andes Mountains, untouched by human pollution. This salt is hand-harvested by a traditional Peruvian community and is said to have a fresh flavor.
While it is challenging to avoid microplastics entirely, choosing these plastic-free sea salt brands can be a step towards reducing your plastic consumption and supporting organizations working to tackle the plastic pollution crisis.
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Health implications of microplastics
Microplastics are a typical emerging pollutant, and their potential health hazards have been a significant concern. Humans are exposed to microplastics through oral intake, inhalation, and skin contact. The toxic effects of microplastics in experimental models like cells, organoids, and animals include oxidative stress, DNA damage, organ dysfunction, metabolic disorder, immune response, neurotoxicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Epidemiological evidence also suggests that chronic diseases may be related to microplastic exposure.
Bioaccumulation of plastics in the human body can lead to respiratory disorders like lung cancer, asthma, and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Neurological symptoms such as fatigue and dizziness, inflammatory bowel disease, and disturbances in gut microbiota have also been observed. In vitro studies show that nano- and microplastics induce apoptosis and have cytotoxic effects, with cell damage influenced by particle characteristics like type, size, and charge.
While the health implications of microplastics are concerning, the good news is that there are salt products available that are microplastic-free. For example, Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt is sourced from 600 meters above sea level, far from any industrial establishments, preserving its purity. Vera Salt is another option, sourced from an ancient spring in the foothills of Spain, over 2000 feet above sea level, and packaged in 100% plastic-free packaging.
Additionally, some varieties of salt have been scientifically tested to contain lower amounts of microplastics. These include pure salts that do not contain anti-caking agents or other added chemicals. When purchasing salt, it is best to choose those with simple ingredients listed as just "salt" or "sea salt."
While it is challenging to avoid microplastics entirely, reducing plastic consumption and supporting organizations working to tackle plastic pollution can help mitigate the problem.
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Anti-caking agents in salt
Salt is a staple ingredient in many cuisines worldwide, and its production involves various techniques to ensure it remains usable and effective. One crucial aspect of salt production is the use of anti-caking agents, which prevent salt granules from clumping together and ensure the salt remains free-flowing, making it easier to measure, store, and use.
Anti-caking agents are additives that work by absorbing moisture, reducing the surface area of the particles, or coating the particles to prevent them from sticking together. Some common anti-caking agents used in salt production include silicates (e.g., silicon dioxide, calcium silicate), carbonates (e.g., calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate), and others such as iron ammonium citrate and yellow prussiate of soda.
There has been some concern over the use of certain anti-caking agents, such as sodium and potassium ferrocyanide, due to the presence of cyanide, a known toxin. Additionally, the use of aluminum in anti-caking agents has been flagged as a potential concern for individuals with impaired renal function. Natural alternatives to chemical anti-caking agents exist, such as talc and grains like rice, although more research is needed to ensure their safety.
When it comes to sea salt specifically, it is important to note that studies have found that a significant percentage of sea salt brands worldwide contain microplastic particles. A 2019 study published in the Journal: Scientific Reports, for example, found that 94% of globally tested salt products contained microplastics. However, there are some sea salt options available that are marketed as being free from microplastics, such as Vera Salt from Spain and Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt. Additionally, some sources suggest that unrefined sea salt produced by solar evaporation may be less likely to contain microplastics.
To avoid anti-caking agents in salt, it is recommended to inspect the ingredients list and choose a product that contains only "salt" or "sea salt" without any additional additives. Himalayan salt and Redmond Natural Trace Mineral salt, for example, are mentioned as options that do not contain additives.
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Environmental impact of plastic pollution
Plastic pollution has become a ubiquitous issue, with landscapes littered by plastic packaging observed in many parts of the world. It is a persistent pollutant, taking anywhere from 100 to 1000 years or more to decompose, during which time it fragments into smaller pieces of plastic known as microplastics. These microplastics are found everywhere on the planet, from the Antarctic tundra to the depths of the sea, and have even been detected in human organs, including the liver, kidneys, and placenta. The environmental impact of plastic pollution is far-reaching, with plastic waste particularly affecting the oceans and the biodiversity of their ecosystems.
Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to marine life, with over 1500 species of marine and terrestrial organisms known to ingest plastic, leading to potential suffocation or entanglement. The introduction of plastic into the food chain has raised concerns about the health of both wildlife and humans. Carcinogenic chemicals in plastics can leach into tap water, potentially causing various health disorders, including developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune issues. The full extent of the health risks associated with microplastics is still being studied.
The sources of plastic pollution are diverse and widespread. Single-use plastic products and packaging materials account for approximately 50% of all plastics produced, and their improper disposal contributes significantly to environmental pollution. Population centres generate the most litter, and illegal dumping and overflowing containment structures further exacerbate the problem. The persistence of plastic pollution in the environment is due to its non-biodegradability, with synthetic plastics designed specifically to resist natural decay processes.
While it is challenging to avoid microplastics entirely, some salt varieties have been found to contain lower levels of microplastics. These include unrefined sea salt produced by solar evaporation and mined rock salt. Additionally, specific brands like Vera Salt and Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt claim to be microplastic-free, with the latter providing a microplastic analysis report to support its claim. However, it is important to note that reducing overall plastic consumption and supporting organizations tackling the plastic pollution crisis are more effective strategies in mitigating the problem.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are a few sea salts that claim to be microplastic-free. These include Vera Salt, Mayi Delice Natural Spring Salt, and Only Salt. However, it's important to note that the presence of microplastics in salt is a widespread issue, and it can be challenging to find salt that is completely free of plastic contamination.
Microplastics form chemical bonds with toxins floating in seawater, which is the source of most sea salt. The plastic pollution in the water breaks down into tiny particles that are then harvested along with the salt.
The health risks of consuming microplastics are still being studied, and the long-term effects are not yet fully understood. However, it is a cause for concern, as microplastics have been found in the organs and brains of other species.
To reduce your microplastic consumption from sea salt, you can look for salt varieties that have been scientifically tested to contain lower amounts of microplastics. Pure salt, which does not contain any anti-caking agents or added chemicals, is a better option. Additionally, reducing your overall plastic consumption and supporting organizations working to tackle plastic pollution can help mitigate the problem.
