Iodine is added as potassium iodate to salt after refining and drying and before packing. Iodization can often be linked with existing production and/or refining lines. This can be done by adding a solution of potassium iodate to the salt or by adding dry potassium iodate powder. Potassium iodide is only appropriate in certain areas with high quality packaging.
In the wet method, potassium iodate is first dissolved in water to make a concentrated solution. This solution can be either dripped or sprayed on the salt at a uniform rate.
In the dry method, the potassium iodate is first mixed with a filler such as calcium carbonate and/or dry salt and the powder is then sprinkled over the dry salt. In both methods, thorough mixing of the salt after the addition of the potassium iodate is necessary to ensure even penetration of the potassium iodate. If the mixing is insufficient, some batches of salt will contain too much iodine and others too little.
For information about the iodine industry, visit The Network for the Sustained Elimination of Iodine Deficiency.
