A recent nationwide survey has shed light on the state of iodized salt consumption across India. The probe, which aimed to measure the proportion of households using iodized salt, found that Tamil Nadu had the lowest rate of consumption.
The comprehensive survey was coordinated by Nutrition International, a Canadian non-profit organization, in partnership with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and the Indian Coalition for the Control of Iodine Deficiency Disorders (ICCIDD). It marks the first of its kind, conducting an all-India study of the iodine content in samples of cooking salt directly from households.
Key Findings from the Survey
The study’s scope was extensive, encompassing a total of 21,406 households all over India. The results indicated that 76.3% of Indian homes consumed adequately iodized salt, defined as salt containing at least 15 parts per million of iodine.
However, some regions fared worse than others. The five least performing states were Tamil Nadu (61.9%), Andhra Pradesh (63.9%), Rajasthan (65.5%), Odisha (65.8%), and Jharkhand (68.8%). On a positive note, North-Eastern states reported better iodized salt consumption as compared to the rest of India.
| State | Percent of households consuming adequately iodized salt |
|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | 61.9% |
| Andhra Pradesh | 63.9% |
| Rajasthan | 65.5% |
| Odisha | 65.8% |
| Jharkhand | 68.8% |
Recommendations from the Study
Arising from this study were key recommendations encouraging the maintenance of current iodine levels and further improvements where needed. It was proposed that State and Central governments should collaborate closely to address existing gaps, examining issues on a state-by-state basis with the goal of producing adequately iodized salt.
Understanding Iodine and its Importance
Iodine is an essential micro-nutrient crucial for optimal mental and physical development in humans. A deficiency in iodine can lead to a series of disabilities and disorders such as goitre, hypothyroidism, cretinism, abortion, still-births, mental retardation, and psychomotor defects.
In light of these potential health risks, India introduced mandatory iodine fortification of salt for human consumption in 1992. In 2011, the Supreme Court reinforced this initiative mandating universal iodization for the control of iodine deficiencies.
Innovative Approaches to Tackle Iodine Deficiency
In addition to fortifying salt, some innovative methods have been introduced to combat iodine deficiency. For instance, Jeevan Bindi, an iodine patch designed like a regular bindi, was initiated to help one lakh tribal women in northwest Maharashtra. This creative strategy was implemented as it was observed that these tribal women did not consume iodized salt.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024