Israel Mandates Iodine Fortification in Table Salt

Israel's Ministry of Health is preparing new regulations that will require the mandatory addition of iodine to table salt within two years. The new rules will apply only to table salt intended for home use, excluding coarse salt, Himalayan salt, and flake sea salt like Maldon. Currently, table salt accounts for less than 15% of total salt consumption in Israel, as Israelis tend to prefer coarser varieties.

The ministry has set a recommended iodine concentration of 25 to 45 milligrams per kilogram of salt. Officials estimate this measure will increase daily iodine intake by approximately 0.045 milligrams, fulfilling about 30% of the recommended daily allowance. The Ministry of Health stated that the mandatory iodization will not lead to price increases for table salt, which is government-regulated and currently costs 2.09 shekels per kilogram.

The initiative addresses a growing iodine deficiency among the Israeli population, which poses significant risks, particularly to children and pregnant women. Traditional sources of iodine such as fish, eggs, dairy products, and drinking water have become less effective. The widespread use of desalinated water, which has had its minerals removed by reverse osmosis membranes, has contributed to lower iodine levels. Iodine deficiency can lead to thyroid problems, fatigue, developmental issues, and miscarriages.

Switzerland was the first country to legislate salt iodization, and the practice is now adopted in over 124 countries worldwide.