LAUSR

Abstract Salt fortification is an effective strategy to reduce micronutrient deficiency in developing countries because salt is consumed universally and at constant levels irrespective of socioeconomic status. The demonstrated efficacy of salt iodization resulted in a major international program to achieve universal salt iodization. To address the widespread deficiency in folic acid, the objective of this research was to develop a stable formulation of salt fortified with both folic acid and iodine. The fortification process will use a single solution that will be sprayed onto salt using existing salt iodization equipment and infrastructure. Optimal salt formulations were prepared by spraying a pH 9 carbonate buffer solution containing 1%–3% (weight per volume) iodine, as potassium iodate, and 1%–2% (weight per volume) folic acid. After fortification, the optimal formulations prepared using refined salt, retained >80% of the folic acid and >90% of the iodine after 12 months of storage at ambient conditions.