Conformity evaluation of different salts for human consumption marketed in the city of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

Introduction: Salt is an ideal way of adding iodine, an essential mineral for human development. Its importance and the frequency of its consumption are considered a public health issue. Objective: To evaluate the conformity of 12 salts, marketed in the city of Rio de Janeiro, refined, thick and marine. Method: The physicochemical analyses were performed in triplicate according to the Adolfo Lutz Institute methodology and its results compared with Decree n° 75697, 1975, which establishes the Standards of Identity and Product Quality. Microscopic evaluation followed methodology AOAC n° 945.80, 2016 and analysis of labelling, the RDC nº 259/2002, nº 28/2000, n° 360/2003, nº 45/2010, nº 46/2010, nº 986/1969, nº 27/2010, nº 23/2013 and the Portaria nº 540/1997. Results: It was identified that five samples of refined salt presented humidity conditions above that established by the legislation (> 0.20%). It was also reported that a sample of refined salt analyzed presented chloride content (> 98.92%) and a concentration of calcium (< 0.10%) and magnesium (< 0.10%) ions outside the recommended by law. In tests to identify iodine, two salts were below that recommended by RDC nº 23/2013 (15 to 45 mg/kg). Also it was observed that six samples obtained a higher than expected result of total insoluble in water (> 0.10%; > 0.20%) and through microscopic evaluation the presence of dirt was evidenced in most salts. Conclusions: The quality of salt for consumption should be regularly assessed to ensure the human right to adequate food.