Radioactivity levels and health risks associated with Himalayan salt consumption

Abstract

Table salt commonly refers to a refined salt containing primarily sodium chloride. During the refining process, salt is often treated with chemicals to remove all impurities and also to achieve the desired color and structure of the final product. Himalayan salt is usually less processed than regular refined table salt and may contain trace nutrients and minerals which are assumed to provide various health benefits. However, some of these impurities (such as radionuclides and heavy metals) may also lead to potentially harmful effects. This study was conducted to investigate specific activities of natural radionuclides in five different samples of Himalayan salt available in Serbian markets. Average specific activities ± standard deviations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were 1.4 ± 0.2, 0.5 ± 0.3, and 113 ± 48 Bq kg-1, respectively. The annual effective doses from radionuclides and radiological risks were estimated. The results indicate that Himalayan salt consumption is radiologically safe in all age groups.