Himalayan pink salt has gained popularity as a “healthier” alternative to table salt, with claims of unique health benefits due to its mineral content and purported natural origins. But is it as beneficial as it’s marketed to be? Dr Piyush Mishra, General Physician & Immunisation Officer, North East District, New Delhi offers insights into the actual health value of Himalayan pink salt and whether it’s worth the extra attention and cost. Scroll down to learn its benefits and my experience of trying SnackPure which boasts the inclusion of pink salt in its snack range.
What Is Himalayan Pink Salt?
Dr Piyush Mishra said that Himalayan pink salt is harvested from ancient salt deposits found in the Himalayan mountain region, primarily in Pakistan. Its pink colour comes from trace minerals, particularly iron oxide. This type of salt is less processed compared to table salt and is often advertised as containing 80-90 different minerals, though the amounts of these minerals are quite minimal.
Does it Have More Nutritional Value?
“Himalayan pink salt does contain trace minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, which are essential for the body,” Dr Mishra explains. “However, the amounts of these minerals are so small that they do not make a significant difference in daily intake. Most people get their essential minerals from a balanced diet, and relying on Himalayan salt for minerals would not be effective.”
Studies indicate that while Himalayan salt has trace elements, the mineral content is unlikely to provide a substantial health advantage. Common minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium are found in higher amounts in other foods, making the additional cost of Himalayan salt more a matter of taste preference than nutritional necessity.
Beliefs About Himalayan Pink Salt
A common belief is that Himalayan pink salt is better for blood pressure than table salt because it’s less refined and contains less sodium. However, Dr Mishra points out that the sodium content in Himalayan salt is only slightly lower than that in table salt.
Potential Health Risks
While generally safe for consumption, Himalayan salt can be problematic if people rely on it exclusively for essential minerals or overconsume it due to the belief that it’s “healthier” than other salts. Dr Mishra cautions, “Salt, no matter the type, should be consumed in moderation. Overconsumption of any salt increases the risk of hypertension, kidney strain, and other health complications.”
Is It Worth The Hype?
“From a health perspective, there’s little evidence to support that Himalayan salt (benefits of himalayan salt) is superior to regular table salt,” Dr Mishra concludes. “For most people, standard iodized salt provides essential iodine, which is often missing in pink salt. While it can add variety and appeal to meals, it’s not necessary for health, and the hype around its health benefits is somewhat overstated.”
My Experience With SnackPure
Ahead of Diwali, I ordered a range of snacks from SnackPure that boasts a range of healthy snacks and nuts. I ordered soy sticks, Oat chips (Cream & Onion), Wheat Crunch Flakes, Crunchy Cream & Onion Makhana Roasted in Himalayan Pink Salt, and Chatpata Chaat Cashews. I enjoyed the taste of the snacks enriched with Himalayan salt. The best was that the snacks had no maida, preservatives, no palm oil, and were trans fat-free. I found them as the best alternative to oily snacks for diwali. Though the price of the snacks was high.
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Price
- Soya Sticks (Peri Peri) -Rs 160
- Crunchy Cream & Onion Makhana Roasted in Himalayan Pink Salt- Rs 199
- Oat chips (Cream & Onion)- Rs 170
- Wheat Crunch Flakes- Rs 115
- Chatpata Chaat Cashews- Rs 380
Pros
- No Maida
- No Preservatives
- Trans Fat-Free
- No Palm Oil
- Healthy Alternative
- Kids friendly
- Ideal for gifting
- Aesthetic Packaging
Cons
The price of the snacks was quite high and the quantity was comparatively less.
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Final Verdict
While Himalayan pink salt can be a pleasing addition to your kitchen, it’s essential to keep expectations realistic. However, you can try SnackPure snacks as they are enriched with Himalayan pink salt and are good alternatives to unhealthy snacks available in the market.
Image Courtesy: Freepik
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