Desh Ka Namak - Tata Salt, As Reliable As Ever

In this age of information explosion, it takes no time for anything to go viral. Defamation in today’s call-out culture is faster than ever. Recently a renowned Indian  company was  called out for some reports which claimed that “Tata namak, Desh ka namak” (Tata salt, India’s salt) contains an alarming level of cyanide in its ingredients.

As soon as the rumour was amplified and disseminated across all top news channels, FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) tweeted from its official handle that it was actually potassium ferrocyanide which is used in the manufacturing of food-grade salts and that its level was absolutely under the permissible limit in Tata Salt.

Among countries like US, Australia and New Zealand, India is allowed to use potassium ferrocyanide within an authorised level to prevent the edible salt from developing lumps after contact with humid air. Potassium works as an anti-caking agent that prevents the food ingredients from forming chunks.

This misinformation created chaos and confusion but could not convince the consumers as Tata Chemicals dismissed the allegations as ‘baseless’ and ‘false’. Tata also clarified that the ferrocyanide used in Tata Salt is definitely below the level of safe consumption.

Related Story : Tatas battle misinformation campaign against salt brand

Tata made another vital remark on iodised salt manufactured in India. Iodine being one of the essential micronutrients for the human body, it is vital to consume it regularly within a limited amount for health benefits.

"Since 1983, Tata Salt has partnered with the government in this (IDD) initiative and played a pivotal role in the battle against iodine deficiency. As per FSSAI, adequate salt iodisation has saved four billion IQ points in the past 25 years," said a senior Tata official.

Tata, being a reputed and responsible brand, is sincere about its quality check. Rumours of this sort not only malign the reputation of a company but also promote unnecessary mistrust among consumers.

Consumers need not worry about the purity of their “Desh ka namak”. For further reference and clarification, consumers may check the links provided on the Tata Salt website.