Health experts at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences have issued a critical advisory regarding the increasing public consumption of unrefined “colored” and “sea salts,” warning that these products pose a significant threat to public health—particularly for pregnant women and children.Iodine is a vital micronutrient essential for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which regulate the growth and development of the body’s organs, specifically the nervous and muscular systems. Experts caution that the deficiency of this critical element, especially during fetal development and early childhood, can lead to irreversible neurological and physical consequences, including reduced IQ, severe mental retardation, impaired growth, and hearing or speech disorders.

Rising Concerns and National Health Data

Findings from the 6th National Nutritional Iodine Survey indicate that iodine levels among high-risk groups have reached a critical warning threshold. Data shows the median urinary iodine concentration among pregnant women in Iran is 128 µg/L. This figure underscores the urgent necessity of prioritizing iodine-rich nutrition during pregnancy, lactation, and the first three years of life—a window of development where even minor iodine deficiencies can significantly impact a child’s future academic performance and overall health.

The Dangers of Unregulated Alternatives

Recently, misinformation campaigns on social media have promoted the use of “colored salts” (such as pink salt) and “sea salts” as superior alternatives to refined iodized salt. These products, often imported illicitly or extracted and processed through rudimentary methods, lack health permits and official standard certifications.Specialized analyses reveal that these advertised salts are not only devoid of sufficient iodine but often contain hazardous levels of toxic heavy metals, including:

• Lead
• Mercury
• Cadmium
• Arsenic

Consumption of these unstandardized products by pregnant women is directly linked to serious health risks, including congenital hypothyroidism, impaired fetal neurodevelopment, and an increased risk of miscarriage.

Professional Recommendation

Health and nutrition experts emphasize that, contrary to social media claims, there are no medical benefits to using colored or sea salts. Refined iodized salt remains the only safe, effective, and scientifically validated method to ensure adequate iodine intake and prevent the “silent crisis” of iodine deficiency in the next generation.Families are strongly urged to exercise vigilance and prioritize standardized, medically approved products to safeguard their health and that of their children.