Mandatory Iodine Fortification 
What is mandatory iodine fortification?
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) has developed a mandatory iodine fortification regulation to help address the re-emergence of iodine deficiency across most of the population. This regulation requires the replacement of non-iodised salt with iodised salt in all bread, except organic bread. From October 2009, most bread in Australia and New Zealand will contain added iodine.
Why do we need iodine?
Iodine is a mineral and an essential nutrient for life. The thyroid, a small butterfly shaped gland in the neck, needs iodine to produce thyroid hormones, which are essential because they regulate our metabolism. In children, especially young children, including the developing foetus, thyroid hormones help regulate physical and mental development.
How much iodine do we need?
Iodine is a trace mineral and so we need only very small amounts. Most adults require 150 micrograms a day (a microgram is a millionth of a gram). Although only small amounts are needed, we need iodine regularly because we cannot store large amounts in the body. Pregnant or breastfeeding women need slightly more iodine as they provide all of their baby’s iodine. During pregnancy, the recommendation is 220 micrograms per day and when breastfeeding it is 270 micrograms per day.
Where do we get iodine?
Iodine is in many foods, but much of the Australian and New Zealand food supply is low in iodine. This has led to widespread iodine deficiency throughout the population. The following table is a guide to the iodine content of various foods. However, the actual iodine content of food will vary depending on where it is grown and what manufacturing process it has been through.
How can extra iodine be added to the food supply?
The easiest way to add extra iodine to the food supply is by replacing non-iodised salt with iodised salt. International guidance and experience show that using iodised salt is one of the best ways to reduce iodine deficiency. Iodised salt has been found to be a suitable substitute for non-iodised salt in the majority of foods tested. In contrast, very little evidence exists for ways to add extra iodine to food other than via salt.
Table: Iodine Content of Various Foods
Where does the iodine in iodised salt come from?
The only forms of iodine permitted to be used for salt iodisation are potassium or sodium iodate or iodide. These forms are derived from mined mineral sources and are not derived from animals or plant sources.
Shouldn’t we be eating less salt?
Salt contributes to hypertension (high blood pressure) and there are efforts globally to encourage people to eat less salt. The mandatory iodine fortification regulation requires the replacement of the existing salt in bread with iodised salt. This is preferable to people adding extra iodised salt to their food.
How do I know if iodised salt has been added to my food?
Manufacturers must list ‘iodised salt’ in the ingredient list on the labels of food containing iodised salt. Unpackaged bread and bread that is made and/or packaged at the point of sale is not required to have ingredient label information. This information may be available on request.
Are there any breads that don’t contain iodised salt?
Iodised salt is not permitted in organic foods; therefore organic bread will not contain iodised salt. Bread mixes for making bread at home are not required to contain iodised salt. However, manufacturers can choose to add iodised salt if they wish. Additionally, salt-free breads will not contain iodised salt.
What if I don’t eat bread?
While bread is required to contain iodised salt, manufacturers may choose to use iodised salt in other foods. This provides manufacturers with an opportunity to make products as alternative iodine sources for people who don’t eat bread. If iodised salt is used, it will be listed in the ingredient list of packaged food. If you are concerned about getting enough iodine in your diet, consult your doctor for advice.
Will pregnant and breastfeeding women get enough iodine?
Although mandatory iodine fortification does provide sufficient amounts of iodine to the general population, for many pregnant and breastfeeding women it does not fully meet their much greater requirements. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may require iodine supplements. As iodine is especially important for the unborn baby, all women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or considering becoming pregnant should ask their doctor, midwife or dietitian for advice on their individual dietary needs.
Are there any adverse health effects from mandatory iodine fortification?
Mandatory iodine fortification is estimated to increase the iodine intake of Australians by approximately 54 micrograms per day; an amount comparable to the iodine content of a large glass of milk (300ml). The increase in iodine intake is modest and therefore unlikely to cause harm even in the majority of iodine sensitive individuals.
In developing mandatory iodine fortification, FSANZ set up an Iodine Scientific Advisory Group which included experts in a variety of fields. FSANZ consulted with the advisory group throughout the development of the regulation, and concluded that the risk of any adverse health effects from mandatory iodine fortification is very small across all groups.
© Food Standards Australia New Zealand 2009
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