What is the difference between table salt and sea salt?

Image by andreas160578 from Pixabay

Question from Kiera Timpson

Table salt and sea salt have the same chemical composition, but different processing methods give them a slightly different taste and texture. Sea salt is produced by evaporating the water from seawater or saltwater lakes, leaving behind salt but also small amounts of minerals such as magnesium, calcium and potassium, which can affect flavour. The large

salt crystals give it a relatively coarse texture. Table salt, on the other hand, is typically mined from salt deposits. It is washed, purified and stripped of any contaminants. Additives are then added to prevent it from clumping. Iodised salt also contains extra potassium iodide.


Answered by Alexandra Cheung for Brain Dump in How It Works issue 140.

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