10 Facts About Salt

1.

Salt was prized by the ancient Hebrews, the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Hittites, Egyptians, and the Indians.

FactSnippet No. 958,712
2.

Salt became an important article of trade and was transported by boat across the Mediterranean Sea, along specially built salt roads, and across the Sahara on camel caravans.

FactSnippet No. 958,713
3.

Salt is used in religious ceremonies and has other cultural and traditional significance.

FactSnippet No. 958,714
4.

Salt is processed from salt mines, and by the evaporation of seawater and mineral-rich spring water in shallow pools.

FactSnippet No. 958,715
5.

Salt is essential to the health of humans and other animals, and it is one of the five basic taste sensations.

FactSnippet No. 958,716
6.

Salt is used in many cuisines, and it is often found in salt shakers on diners' eating tables for their personal use on food.

FactSnippet No. 958,717
7.

Salt is present in most foods, but in naturally occurring foodstuffs such as meats, vegetables and fruit, it is present in very small quantities.

FactSnippet No. 958,718
8.

Salt has long held an important place in religion and culture.

FactSnippet No. 958,719
9.

Salt is considered to be a very auspicious substance in Hinduism and is used in particular religious ceremonies like house-warmings and weddings.

FactSnippet No. 958,720
10.

Salt is believed to ward off evil spirits in Mahayana Buddhist tradition, and when returning home from a funeral, a pinch of salt is thrown over the left shoulder as this prevents evil spirits from entering the house.

FactSnippet No. 958,721