In Iran, the average amount of cadmium — a harmful metal — found in table salt is 0.71 micrograms per gram, and it's higher in rock salt than in sea or regular table salt. That means natural or unrefined salts might carry more of this toxin.

What we've found so far suggests that cadmium levels in Iranian edible salts are higher in rock salt compared to sea or refined table salt. Our analysis of the available research shows that the average cadmium concentration in table salt in Iran is 0.71 micrograms per gram, with higher amounts found specifically in rock salt [1]. We looked at the evidence to understand how cadmium levels compare across different types of salt commonly consumed in Iran. Based on what we've reviewed so far, all supporting data indicate that rock salt contains more cadmium than sea salt or regular refined table salt [1]. This may mean that less processed or natural salts, such as rock salt, carry a higher amount of this potentially harmful metal [1]. Cadmium is a heavy metal that can be toxic when consumed in high amounts over time. While the human body can handle small exposures, long-term intake from dietary sources like salt could add to overall exposure. The fact that rock salt shows higher levels might be due to its source and lack of refining, which could remove or reduce contaminants [1]. Our current analysis leans toward the presence of higher cadmium in Iranian rock salt compared to other salt types. However, we only have a limited number of assertions to base this on, and more data would help strengthen our understanding. For now, if you're choosing between salt types and are concerned about heavy metal exposure, it may be worth considering that unrefined or natural salts like rock salt could contain more cadmium than refined options. We’ll update our analysis as more evidence becomes available.