The ultimate guide to Celtic salt

Having earned over 36 million mentions on TikTok, Celtic salt is definitely making waves. But how different can one type of salt be from another? Vincent Carrié takes a closer look at this sought-after ingredient.

What is Celtic salt?

Despite what the name suggests, Celtic salt doesn’t come straight from the Celtic Sea. It’s hand-harvested from coastal regions in France and Portugal, using age-old methods that rely on natural sun and wind evaporation. The term "Celtic" refers more to the traditional approach than the geography.

The process involves collecting seawater in tidal pools and slowly moving it through shallow, clay-lined salt pans called "oeillets." As the water evaporates, minerals remain in the salt crystals, giving the salt its soft grey hue—hence the French nickname "sel gris."

“Celtic sea salt actually contains slightly less sodium per serving compared to regular table salt”

What are the benefits of Celtic salt?

Vincent Carrié explains that Celtic salt has a richer mix of trace minerals like magnesium, calcium and potassium compared to ordinary salt. These minerals are involved in everything from bone health to muscle function and blood pressure regulation.

Here are a few of the reasons it continues to grow in popularity:

  • Less processing: Celtic salt is minimally processed and retains trace minerals including iron and zinc.
  • Lower sodium content: Despite its strong flavour, it contains slightly less sodium than regular table salt.
  • Hydration support: The balance of minerals may help regulate electrolytes and improve hydration.

That said, Vincent Carrié adds a note of caution. While the mineral content is appealing, the actual amounts are minimal. This means it’s unlikely to be a reliable source of nutrients on its own.

“Although the nutritional profile of Celtic sea salt sounds promising, the evidence is lacking in regard to any additional health benefits associated with the consumption of Celtic sea salt over regular table salt, as the minerals are only present in trace amounts,” he says.

He also notes that relying on foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains is a more effective way to get essential minerals—without the added sodium.

“While regular table salt is rigorously processed, Celtic sea salt is hand-harvested”

Celtic salt vs. Himalayan salt

Himalayan and Celtic salts are both known for their trace mineral content, but they differ in origin and appearance. Himalayan salt comes from ancient seabeds in the Punjab region of Pakistan and is typically pink due to its iron content. It has a more subtle flavour profile and contains minerals like magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, and traces of elements like strontium and molybdenum.

Celtic salt vs. sea salt

According to Vincent Carrié, the primary difference lies in how the salts are harvested. Standard sea salt is often refined and stripped of its minerals. In contrast, Celtic salt is harvested by hand from the French and Portuguese coasts, allowing more of its natural mineral content to remain intact.

The final say

Celtic salt does offer more minerals than table salt and appeals to those seeking less processed ingredients. Think of it like selecting wholegrain bread over white, premium chocolate for baking, or fresh juice instead of concentrate.

But it’s still salt—and that means it’s high in sodium. If you’re mainly looking to boost your mineral intake, it’s smart to look toward other sources that don’t carry the same health considerations as sodium.

Disclaimer

The advice in this article is for information only and some of the information reflects the opinion of our in-house nutritionist and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Sources

  • Imen Ben Fredj (2024). Celtic Sea Salt: A closer look to its benefits, origins & uses. Available at: isleofskyeseasalt.co.uk [Accessed 27 Sep. 2024].
  • EFSA NDA Panel (2013). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to magnesium and contribution to normal development of bone. EFSA Journal;11(7):3331.
  • EFSA NDA Panel (2016). Scientific opinion on calcium and contribution to the normal development of bones. EFSA Journal;14(10):4587.
  • EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (2010). Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of health claims related to potassium. EFSA Journal;8(2):1469.
  • Fayet-Moore F, et al. (2020). An Analysis of the Mineral Composition of Pink Salt Available in Australia. Foods;9(10):1490.