Table salt vs Sea salt / Himalayan pink salt
Side-by-side comparison, when-to-use-each guide, and instant conversion. Reviewed for 2026.
Baking (consistent fine grain, easy to measure by weight), everyday table use.
Finishing dishes (flaked sea salt for texture), presentation, personal preference.
| Aspect | Table salt | Sea salt / Himalayan pink salt |
|---|---|---|
| Sodium content | ~39% | ~38-39% |
| Processing | Refined, anti-caking agents | Minimal (sea) / None (Himalayan) |
| Iodised? | Often (UK) | Rarely |
| Grain size | Fine | Varies: fine to large flakes |
| Cost | £0.30-0.50/kg | £2-8+/kg |
Frequently asked
Is Himalayan salt healthier than table salt?
No. The trace minerals in Himalayan salt exist in quantities far too small to have any nutritional significance. You'd need to eat implausibly large amounts to reach meaningful mineral intake. It's a premium product marketed on aesthetics and vague 'natural' claims, not health evidence.
Should I use iodised salt?
For most UK adults eating varied diets with dairy and fish, no — iodine intake is typically adequate. Vegans and those with low dairy/fish intake may benefit from iodised salt or a supplement, as iodine is important for thyroid function. UK sea salt is typically not iodised.