Essentially, if kept dry, no salt, or salt, does not expire or go bad.
Salt is a mineral, and as such, it is incredibly stable. The only scenario where salt can seem to "go bad" is if it absorbs moisture.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Chemical Stability: Salt (sodium chloride) is an inorganic compound. Inorganic compounds are generally more stable than organic compounds and don't easily break down or decompose.
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Moisture Absorption: The main issue is that salt is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air. When it does, it can clump together, making it harder to pour or measure. This doesn't mean the salt is spoiled; it just means its texture has changed.
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Iodized Salt: Iodized salt has potassium iodide or another iodide added to it. Over time, some of the iodine might be lost, especially in humid conditions. This can reduce its effectiveness as an iodine supplement, but the salt itself remains perfectly safe to consume.
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Storage Recommendations: To prevent clumping:
- Store salt in an airtight container.
- Keep it in a cool, dry place.
- Consider adding a few grains of rice to the container; the rice will help absorb excess moisture.
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"Best By" Dates: You may see "best by" dates on packages of salt, especially iodized salt. These dates are generally related to the iodine content and are not an indication of spoilage. The salt will still be safe to use after this date, but the iodine may be less effective.
In conclusion, while salt might clump or lose some iodine over time, it doesn't truly "go bad" as long as it's kept dry.
