Reasons to Fortify

Ten reasons to fortify salt

1. Salt is an ideal vehicles to achieve a predictable, affordable level of added nutrients into the diet. Salt is consumed by virtually everyone and in a narrow range of 6-12 g/day. Nutrients like iodine and iron, if added according to recommended levels, will thus be consumed in predictable, safe amounts by the population on a regular basis.
   
   
2. Salt Fortification is Safe. Because salt consumption is predictable, appropriately fortified salt cannot provide an overdose of nutrients.
   
   
3. Fortification is an established public health measure. Fortification of salt with iodine is an established and proven public health measure with widespread support by the medical profession and the salt industry. Universal Salt Iodization is a global priority. Double fortification of salt - adding iron to iodized salt - is increasingly recognized as a viable and powerful public health intervention to address deficiencies of this vital nutrient as well.
   
   
4. The technology is readily available. Salt has been iodated for 80 years, in many countries all over the world, so the concept, technology and sustainability are well established.
   
   
5. Salt Iodization at the plant is relatively inexpensive and affordable. It will have limited impact on the cost of salt to the consumer; yet the public will eventually pay for it with a small, overall price increase.
   
   
6. It is simple and easy to control. Fortification at salt plants is fairly simple and easy to control and regulate.
   
   
7. Equipment and procedures are available. The equipment, design and quality control procedures for salt iodization have all been developed and are readily available. Due to heavy competition, equipment is available at reasonable prices.
   
   
8. Potassium Iodate or iodite is readily available at competitive prices. In most countries Potassium Iodate is preferred due to its greater stability.
   
   
9. Technical support is available from a variety of organizations. Several international organizations, including the Micronutrient Initiative, ICCIDD, and the Iodine Network, can provide technical, promotional and financial support.
   
   
10. The benefits of salt iodization are clear: children are protected from the major form of preventable mental retardation, they grow better, learn more and become productive members of society.