Iodized salt quality

Table 85.2 Iodized salt quality from national surveillance surveys...

Because of reports of severe hyperthyroidism after the introduction of iodized salt in two severely iodine-deficient African counties (Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of the Congo), a multicenter study has been conducted in seven countries in the region to evaluate whether the occurrence of iodine-induced hyperthyroidism after the introduction of iodized salt was a generalized phenomenon or corresponded to specific local circumstances in the two affected countries (46). Iodine deficiency had been successfully eliminated in all of the areas investigated and the prevalence of goiter had fallen markedly. However, it was clear that some areas were now exposed to iodine excess as a result of poor monitoring of the quality of iodized salt and of the iodine intake of the population. In these areas, iodine-induced hyperthyroidism occurred only when iodized salt had been recently introduced. 

Regular monitoring of iodi2ed salt quality and population iodine status is important to ensure that salt iodization is effective in the prevention and control of iodine deficiency, and that it does not expose susceptible groups to levels of iodine intake that are too high. 

Monopolized salt production and supply network by major government investment to improve the production capacity and quality of salt and recentralize the production, transportation and marketing of iodized salt. 

Make quality iodized salt available for consumption by the whole of the Tibetan population ... 

Introduce quality assurance systems for iodized salt ... 

These successes have also required political will to develop and enforce appropriate regulations, and a commitment to ensure that iodized salt remains accessible and available at an affordable price for all consumers. With these conditions in place, public and private actors have been able to work together to leverage expertise, spread any potential financial risks and improve the quality of iodized salt (Nelson 2007). 

Thirdly, engaging small-scale producers in rural areas living within the most deficient populations is vital. The formation of business alliances and associations, particularly among small-scale producers, is one way to strengthen quality and improve sales. Collectively, these associations may purchase potassium iodate and package iodized salt at a more efficient scale. Technical assistance and equipment from public and private partners would assure a quality product reaches a larger number of people. 

The quality of iodized salt is crucial for optimal iodine nutrition... 

I have three questions. First, magnesium oxide is added to salt in France. Do you know whether the addition of this compound may modify the preservation of iodide added to salt My second question concerns the quality of iodized salt when it is stored for long periods, in particular in terms of homogeneity My third question concerns the problem of deiodination of salt in relation to humidity and high temperatures. This point is important for tropical countries. 

Two methods of salt iodization are currently imployed 1. dry, and 2. drip feed addition of iodine compound solution over salt crystals travelling on an conveyor. The request for iodized salt for 1990 was 1.400.000 tones but actual production was twice as low 794.000 tones. Actually, the amount of iodized salt production in 1989-1990 was on the level of 1962. All iodized salt is packaged and transported directly to the customer according to the state plan. Beginning from April, 1992 the price for salt in Russia is not controlled by the state. 1 kg of household salt (fine quality) in Moscow costs about 5 rubles... 

The difficulties in the production and quality maintenance of iodized salt for the millions who are iodine deficient, especially in Asia, were vividly demonstrated in India, where there was a breakdown in supply. These difficulties led to the adoption of universal salt iodization (USI) for India and subsequently for many other countries. This policy includes legislation to provide for compulsory iodization of all salt for human and animal consumption, and this legislation makes it illegal for noniodized salt to be available for human or animal consumption. 

Implementation requires the complete involvement of the salt industry. Special measures, such as negotiations for monitoring and quality control of imported iodized salt, will be required. It will also be necessary to ensure that iodized salt delivery systems reach all affected populations. 

Small producers pose an even greater challenge to educate, because their subsistence operations with small turnovers and modest profits leave little room for additional expenses such as iodization. In addition, their salt is invariably of inferior quality, making iodization less effective. Despite these potential barriers, they should share in the iodine-related information flow and have exposure to educational activities that may improve their iodine knowledge and positively influence their attitude and perspective of iodine nutrition and iodization of salt. 

In 1975, the second national inquiry was conducted which diagnosed the occurrence of goiter in 14.1% of a sample of more than 400000 schoolchildren. Despite the problem that existed, salt iodization was suspended in the period from 1974 to 1982, although two decrees were issued Decree No. 75.687, of 6 May 1975, which established quality and standardization criteria to mark salt for human consumption, and Decree No. 80.563, of 20 October 1977, which regulated the quality and formulation of salt for animal consumption. 

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