Abstract

Objective: To determine the status of iodization of edible salt of different brands available in the market and used at homes in district Mansehra, Pakistan.
Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in District Mansehra between December 2016 to March 2017. Samples were selected from 8 union councils through non probability convenient sampling technique. Salt analyzing kits were used to determine amount of iodine in each sample.
Results: The mean iodine concentration of salt available in the market was 23.6±10.461 ppm; while that of the household salt was 22.85±10.696 ppm. Overall, 82% of the samples had iodine concentration within recommended level i.e. 15-30ppm. No iodine was found in 13.2% of the samples and 4.8% of the samples had below recommended level.
Conclusion: The percentage of adequately iodized salt in the market (83.9%) was better than that of households (81.5%). Overall samples of edible salt showed adequate amount of iodine.

Key words: Iodine, salt, Mansehra