Does Salt Go Bad?

Salt preserves itself, so it must be one of the foods without an expiry date: that’s what many consumers think. In fact, that’s true and pure salts and natural salts can be kept indefinitely. According to the Food Information Regulation (LMIV), additive-free types such as sea salt or pure table salt do not have to have a best-before date printed on them. The situation is different as soon as additives are added to the product. Iodine and herbal salt or salt with fluoride, therefore, have an expiry date. If it is exceeded, you do not have to dispose of the products. The shelf life of salt is guaranteed for many years, only the additives can lose their effect and aroma. Since the condiment is usually used very sparingly, you don’t need to build up large supplies anyway. You can also read about how much salt per day is healthy.

Salt cannot run off, but can clump

How long salt can be kept or retains its pourability is also a question of storage. Whether coarse-grained or fine-grained: If it is exposed to too much moisture, it can clump together or even become hard. The reason for this is its hygroscopic, i.e. moisture-binding, properties. That’s why the old trick against tarnished windows in the car works: simply put a bowl of salt in it. What is desired in the vehicle is a nuisance in the kitchen. Therefore, if possible, do not store your salt next to or above the hob, but in a dry place, for example in the kitchen cupboard. Make sure the container or bag is tightly closed. This not only keeps water out but also the aromas in Smoked salt, for example, retain their intense taste. If you have poured the condiment into a suitable container, be sure to label it. There is a risk of confusion with sugar and salt can quickly lead to poisoning for small children. As little as 0.5 to 1 gram of table salt per kilogram of body weight is life-threatening. This means that small children are particularly at risk of consuming too much salt due to their low body weight.

If the seasoning does get lumpy, you can usually loosen it up with a fork and use it for recipes like our salted lemons without hesitation.