Salt in nature, culture and wellbeing
The World Health Organization recommends, whenever possible, the use of iodised salt, as iodine is essential for healthy brain development in the foetus and for proper thyroid function.
Salt has been present in human life for centuries — not only as a seasoning, but as a natural element deeply connected to health, preservation and culture.
🧂 TABLE SALT
Table salt is mainly derived from salt mines. It is composed almost entirely of sodium chloride (95–99%) and is usually iodised to prevent iodine deficiency, following international health guidelines.
Due to its refining process, it loses most of its natural trace minerals, although iodine is added artificially in laboratory conditions.
🌊 SEA SALT (FLOOR OF THE SEA / CÉLTICA SALT)
Sea salt is obtained through the natural evaporation of seawater. It is less processed and contains trace elements such as iodine, potassium, iron, and zinc.
However, due to modern ocean pollution, it may contain traces of heavy metals depending on its origin.
Within this category, two salts stand out for their traditional production methods and mineral profile:
🌿 FLEUR DE SEL
Harvested manually from the surface of salt pans, fleur de sel is considered one of the most prized salts in haute cuisine.
It contains less sodium than refined salt (around 15% less) and naturally preserves iodine and trace minerals.
Its delicate texture and clean flavour make it highly appreciated by chefs.
🌫 CÉLTICA SALT (GRAY SALT)
Also known as grey salt, Celtic salt is traditionally harvested and sun-dried, retaining natural moisture.
It is rich in minerals naturally found in the human body and is often associated with wellness practices due to its mineral balance and artisanal origin.
🌸 PINK HIMALAYAN SALT
Mined mainly in Pakistan, this salt is known for its high purity and characteristic pink colour, caused by its natural iron content.
It also contains small amounts of magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
Beyond cooking, it is widely used in wellness and spa treatments due to its aesthetic and mineral properties.
⚫ BLACK HIMALAYAN SALT (KALA NAMAK)
Originating from India, this volcanic salt contains iron, sulfur, and magnesium, giving it its distinctive dark colour and a flavour reminiscent of egg.
It is commonly used in vegan cuisine as a natural egg substitute and is also valued in traditional wellness practices.
🧂 KOSHER SALT
Traditionally used in Jewish cuisine, kosher salt is produced under religious guidelines ensuring purity and absence of additives.
Its coarse texture makes it ideal for seasoning and food preparation.
🌋 HAWAIIAN SALT (BLACK & RED)
Black Hawaiian salt is combined with volcanic charcoal, giving it detoxifying properties in traditional wellness beliefs.
Red Hawaiian salt contains volcanic clay (Alaea), rich in iron, and is often associated with vitality and blood health in natural traditions.
🎋 BAMBOO SALT (KOREA)
One of the most unique salts in the world, bamboo salt is produced by filling bamboo stems with sea salt, sealing them with clay, and roasting them repeatedly at high temperatures.
This process removes impurities and creates a mineral-rich salt traditionally used in both gastronomy and holistic wellness.
🌊 MALDON SALT
Harvested in the Blackwater Estuary in England, Maldon salt is produced using traditional artisanal methods dating back centuries.
Its delicate crystal flakes provide a unique texture and are widely used by chefs for finishing meats, vegetables, and grilled dishes.
🌿 FINAL NOTE
Salt is more than a mineral.
It is history, preservation, culture — and a connection between the sea and human life.
At Otantus, salt is part of our identity, our landscape, and the story that surrounds us.