Kosher Salt and Iodine

Question: “I use kosher salt in my cooking. Will my family get sufficient iodine from a little added table salt? What about the salt in convenience products?” —B. Risch, via e-mail

Answer: Kosher salt does not contain any iodine, a critical mineral that supports hormone function and metabolism. But don’t fear—you’d have to live in a food desert to have an iodine-deficient diet. Coarse-grained sea salt, table salt, and seafood contain the nutrient. (A 6-ounce portion of salt-water fish supplies more than 4 times your daily need of 150 micrograms). Many commercial products made with salt (frozen bread dough, for example), eggs, and dairy products are other sources. Also plants can contain the mineral, thanks to iodine-rich soil, so eating a variety of vegetables can contribute to your intakes, too.

See more: Switching to kosher salt can help you lower your overall sodium intake.