In recent years, growing concerns about microplastic contamination have extended beyond our oceans to reach our dinner tables through an unexpected source: sea salt.
With studies showing that over 90% of table salts contain microplastics, choosing the right salt for your kitchen has become more important than ever.
This post will help you understand the microplastic problem in salt and identify the safest options for your family.
What Are Microplastics and Why Should You Care?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in length that have become ubiquitous in our oceans.
These particles come from various sources, including degrading plastic waste, fishing industry threads, packaging products, health products, and synthetic textiles.
When seawater is evaporated to produce salt, these microscopic particles can end up in the final product.
The concern isn’t just aesthetic – these particles can leach chemicals into our salt and, consequently, into our bodies.
Research has shown that when ingested, microplastics can potentially penetrate the junctions between intestinal cells and enter our bloodstream.
Given that our internal body surface area is approximately 30-45 square meters, the exposure to these heated plastic particles at body temperature presents a significant health consideration.
How Microplastics End Up in Sea Salt

Traditional sea salt production involves evaporating seawater in concentration ponds, a process that can take up to two years in some locations.
While this method has been used for centuries, modern ocean pollution has introduced a new problem: as the water evaporates, it leaves behind not just salt crystals but also any microplastics present in the seawater.
Research has shown varying levels of contamination based on the salt’s origin:
- Mediterranean-sourced salt typically contains 4-8 plastic particles per 35-gram sample
- Pacific-sourced salt shows lower contamination levels, with 1-2 particles per sample
- The type of contamination varies, with red and black plastic threads being the most common
Which Salts Are Safest from Microplastic Contamination?

Based on extensive scientific research, two types of salt consistently show the lowest levels of microplastic contamination:
Redmond Real Salt: Mined from ancient sea beds in Utah, this salt is protected by 30 feet of clay and has been isolated from modern pollution for thousands of years. It contains natural minerals and trace elements without modern contaminants.
Celtic Grey Sea Salt: Harvested from the coast of France, this salt shows remarkably low levels of microplastic contamination compared to other modern sea salts. It’s available in both coarse and fine varieties, making it versatile for different cooking needs.
Understanding Different Salt Types and Their Microplastic Risk
To help you make an informed decision, here’s how different salt types compare in terms of microplastic contamination:
High Risk:
- Standard table salt (especially Pacific-sourced)
- Most mass-market sea salt brands
Medium Risk:
- Himalayan pink salt (surprisingly contains more microplastics than expected)
- Fleur de sel (higher contamination than regular Celtic grey salt)
- Generic kosher salt brands
Low Risk:
- Ancient sea bed-mined salts
- Celtic grey sea salt
- Atlantic and Mediterranean-sourced artisanal salts
Maldon Sea Salt and Microplastics
Maldon sea salt, while celebrated for its unique flaky texture and clean taste, presents an interesting case study in microplastic contamination.
Despite its premium positioning and careful harvesting methods, salt sourced from the North Atlantic potentially contains moderate levels of microplastics.
Alternatively, ancient bed-mined salts from areas like Utah have not been exposed to the ocean.
Making the Switch to Microplastic-Free Salt
When transitioning to cleaner salt options, consider these practical steps:
- Check the Source: Look for salts mined from ancient sea beds or harvested from less contaminated waters.
- Consider the Processing: Avoid salts produced through modern seawater evaporation when possible.
- Read Labels: Choose products without anti-caking agents, which can interfere with natural fermentation and cooking processes.
- Buy in Bulk: Once you find a trustworthy source, buying in bulk can make premium salts more economical, as salt has an indefinite shelf life.
The Bigger Picture: Beyond Microplastic Free Salt
While choosing microplastic-free salt is important, it’s part of a larger effort to reduce plastic exposure in our diets. Consider this alongside other steps like:
- Avoiding processed foods
- Choosing glass packaging over plastic
- Supporting initiatives to reduce ocean pollution
- Being aware that sea salt contains plastic in varying amounts depending on source and processing
Tips for Finding Genuinely Microplastic Free Salt Brands
- Research the Source: Look for brands that mine from ancient seabeds or harvest from protected waters
- Check Testing Protocols: Some brands now regularly test for microplastic content
- Consider Geographic Origin: Mediterranean and Atlantic sources typically show lower contamination
- Look for Transparency: Choose brands that are open about their harvesting and testing processes
While we can’t completely eliminate microplastic exposure in today’s world, we can make informed choices to minimize our exposure.
Starting with something as fundamental as salt is a significant step toward a healthier lifestyle.