Ingredient
Unrefined Sea Salt
What is Unrefined Sea Salt?
Unrefined sea salt is a natural mineral obtained from evaporating seawater. Unlike table salt, it is less processed, retaining trace minerals and nutrients present in the source water.
It is commonly used as a seasoning and for preserving foods. The presence of naturally occurring minerals like magnesium and calcium can slightly enhance its nutritional value compared to refined salt. However, the health impacts of unrefined sea salt are broadly similar to those of traditional salt — high consumption is linked to increased blood pressure and heart issues.
When you see unrefined sea salt on a label, it typically indicates a product with a preference for less processed ingredients, but it's important to monitor overall salt intake for health reasons.
Commonly found in: protein powders, soups, snack foods, seasonings, canned vegetables
Benefits
- Contains trace minerals that are not found in refined table salt.
Unrefined sea salt is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in foods.
Research shows that while unrefined sea salt contains more minerals than refined salt, the health impact primarily relates to its sodium content, much like regular salt.
Unrefined sea salt is not derived from animals and is suitable for vegan diets.
Sources: Salt Information
Scout's take
Unrefined sea salt — a minimally processed, natural source of sodium and essential trace minerals, and a legitimate whole-food seasoning. Treated as a positive ingredient.
More from Scout's analyses
Ancient unrefined salt with 84+ trace minerals. Not bleached or processed like table salt.
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