Thai sea salt
Salt is more than just a seasoning. It’s vital to our health and plays a surprising role in Thailand’s economy. From mining sea salt to its use in small bags, the story behind this everyday product reveals a fascinating combination of tradition, hard work and potential for international trade.
The Bo Kluea saltwater springs in Nan province
Gringo wanted to know more about the mountain village of Bo Kluea (salt springs) about 100 kilometers northeast of the capital Nan of the province of the same name. A nice story about the salt production in the village.
Fish sauce is a popular condiment in many cuisines around the world, especially in Asian cuisine and certainly in Thailand. It is often used to add depth and umami to a wide variety of dishes. While fish sauce can add a lot to a dish's flavor, it's important to note that it can also contain a potentially unhealthy amount of salt.
A recent study shows that the sodium (salt) intake of Thai children is almost five times higher than the recommended safe level. Something needs to be done say concerned doctors.
Salty food in Thailand
In the eighties I was medically examined for a new job, which showed that my blood pressure was a bit high. The medical examiner advised me to reduce my salt consumption, in fact, he commented that, as far as he was concerned, salt should never have been “invented”.
The number of patients with kidney problems in Thailand is rising explosively due to high salt consumption
Thousands of Thai, children and adults are not aware of the risk they run due to the high salt intake. Many snacks and Thai dishes contain too much salt and that is extremely unhealthy.
Pepper and salt from Kampot
The emergence of pepper in the Kampot region dates back to the 13th century with the arrival of the Chinese who cultivated pepper. More recently, it was the French who further developed pepper production in Kampot at the beginning of the 20th century. The current annual production is currently 8000 tons. In particular, the knowledge that has been passed on from generation to generation over many years ensures a high level of quality.
Too Much Salt Causes Kidney Damage: How Much Are You Taking In?
Salt, like sugar and acid, is a seasoning. Still, you have to be careful and know how much salt you're ingesting. Eating too much salt is unhealthy. The mineral sodium it contains causes high blood pressure and a greater risk of cardiovascular disease.
Salt production in Thailand
When one thinks of Thailand, one does not initially think of salt extraction. More on beautiful white beaches with palms and an azure blue sea in the south of Thailand. Even less of mountains and ancient cultures in the north of Thailand. Yet salt production is also part of the tradition of Thailand.
What is high blood pressure and what can you do about it?
Expats and retirees living in Thailand would do well to have their blood pressure measured regularly. Thai food is often way too salty. Curries and sauces are often packed with salt, the mineral sodium of which raises your blood pressure.
(No) salt in the porridge
In Thailand, 20% of the population suffers from kidney disease. The big culprit behind this depressing figure is salt. Thais seem to be addicted to sodium, salt is added to food in the form of fish and oyster sauce, for example.