Planning and Implementing Salt Iodization at the Operational level

Small scale salt producers

While large scale salt producers now routinely iodize salt, resulting in some 64% of households in Sub-Saharan Africa consuming iodized salt, most salt produced by small scale salt producers is not currently iodized. To achieve the goals of USI, innovative approaches are needed to ensure that a larger proportion of salt is iodized. Small scale producers either need to set up small-batch iodization plants or form collective operations (such as cooperatives) for more centralized iodization and packing.

The benefits of forming a collective include producing higher volumes to take advantage of economies of scale; increased ability to absorb price fluctuations, and cope with market trends; it is possible to extend market access as a group, and it is possible to receive technical support from donors, development agencies, and financial assistance to gear for potential sustainable growth and commercial viability.

Technical support for such ventures can be obtained from the Micronutrient Initiative and other partners. Small scale salt manufacturers, with or without the support of development partners like UNICEF, should contact their local chambers of commerce for assistance in developing a business plan, access local and international sources of funds, branding and monitoring and evaluation of their venture.