Celtic Salt vs. Regular Salt

Celtic Salt vs. Regular Salt: What Sets Them Apart?

Introduction

Salt is a staple in every household, giving flavor to food, storing it, and helping certain functions across the body. But salt should not be viewed as a uniform product. Though regular table salt is popularly used, varieties of naturally available salts exist, with Celtic salt (sel gris) becoming famous for its health benefits and rich mineral composition. This write-up will erratically dwell on the prominent differences between Celtic salt and regular salt to give you a reason to switch. 

1. Origin and Harvesting Process

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt is harvested from the coastal regions of Brittany, France, following traditional practices that have existed for over 2000 years. It is a natural process, whereby Celtic salt is harvested manually: saline water from the earth basins along the coastline is collected and emptied into salines by means of mild wooden tools without any heavy modern machinery. This seawater is retained for evaporating naturally under the sun and wind, and salt is harvested from piles. This salt, which is mildly wet and gray, is commonly referred to as sel gris (French for "gray salt").

The natural seawater also contains many minerals and trace elements such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, and iodine in organic salts; thus, Celtic salt has a mineral-rich profile.

Regular salt

Regular table salt is generally mined from underground salt deposits found in a salt mine, and then further processed. The salt is cleaned, refined, purified, and treated with anti-caking agents. The excess removal of minerals during salt processing is what gives table salt a very fine and white appearance. The lack of mineral content in table salt is, therefore, a hallmark. 

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2. Mineral Content and Health Benefits

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt has high mineral concentrations, which, to some degree, explains the merits accorded to it. It contains a lot of trace minerals that are vital for many body functions. These minerals include:

Magnesium: It helps muscle contraction, does nerve transmission, and keeps the bones healthy.

Calcium: Required for proper bone health and muscle function.

Potassium: Good for regulating fluid balance in the body and able to maintain healthy blood pressure.

Iodine: This iodine occurs naturally in Celtic salt---an important component for the regulation of thyroid hormones.

Due to its unprocessed nature, Celtic salt matches the mineral content's natural forms, which are more readily absorbed by the body than synthetic-added forms.

Regular salt

On the contrary, table salt is sodium chloride (NaCl) with very little of any other minerals. Generally speaking, table salt is then iodized, meaning iodine is added in order to prevent iodine deficiency. Iodine is, however, typically the only mineral added. 

3. Taste and The Texture

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt has one of its very striking features: it is moist. Having some of the dampness carried over from the seawater, it feels just slightly damp, and the larger crystals are generally coarser than table salt. It is termed earthy, mineraly, and subtle as compared to the biting nature of regular salt. For this reason, it lends itself to salting all sorts of dishes, be it meat, veggies, or even desserts that will allow its distinct flavor to shine.

Regular salt

It is dry, fine and uniform; with a clean-sharp taste. Since it dissolves quickly due to its fine texture, it may taste overwhelming when used generously. On the other hand, it is far less flavorful than Celtic salt and suitable to be used as seasoning during the cooking process and not for a finishing touch.

4. Processing and Additives

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt is simply obtained with little or no processing. Consequently, unlike many salts, it has no additives or preservatives. It has an environmentally friendly manner of harvesting it through sustainable means that respects the natural ecology of the salt ponds. Being naturally moisture-bearing, no anti-caking agent is needed.

Regular Salt

Almost all table salt undergoes substantial refining, including washing, bleaching, and chemical treatments to remove impurities. Pure sodium chloride is thus produced, devoid of any natural minerals or other beneficial compounds. Furthermore, it may contain anti-caking agents (for example, calcium silicate or sodium alumino-silicate) to stop clumping and trace elements (like iodine) to support populations in preventing iodine deficiency. 

5. Environmental Impact

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt is environmentally considered more in line with nature because harvesting employs traditional sustainable methods without harming any part of the ecosystem in the surrounding area. The process of natural evaporation allows for solar and wind power without any chemical treatment or modern machinery involved.

Regular Salt

The deep mining and industrial production of regular salt create a greater impact, especially if the mining atmosphere is large and disruptive to the local landscape and ecosystem. The refining process produces chemical additives that are also very bad for the environment.

6. Cost and Availability

Celtic Salt

Celtic salt is more expensive than regular salt due to its traditional harvesting methods and higher mineral content. It is often sold as a gourmet salt and is available at specialty food stores, health food stores, or online retailers. Although it may be more expensive, many people find its benefits worth the additional cost.

Regular Salt

Table salt is typically the least expensive choice and is widely accessible. It is a staple in nearly every household, and its low price makes it accessible for common use. However, its lack of minerals and degree of processing may make it less desirable for those looking for a more natural, health-conscious option. 

Celtic Salt buying link is given below: (usa,canada,uk)

CLICK HERE

Celtic Salt buying link is given below: (india)

CLICK HERE

Conclusion: Celtic Salt vs. Regular Salt

The decision between Celtic salt and regular salt largely depends on your taste preferences, health considerations, and budget. If you are looking for a salt that retains beneficial minerals, has a more complex flavor, and has been minimally processed, Celtic salt may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you need a low-cost, basic seasoning option for everyday cooking, regular table salt may be sufficient. 

For those focused on health, choosing Celtic salt instead of regular salt can help you incorporate a wider range of trace minerals into your diet, supporting everything from hydration to muscle function. If you enjoy gourmet cooking or want to experiment with different flavors, the unique taste and texture of Celtic salt will enhance your culinary creations.