Iodized edible salt - Specification.

The Ethiopian Standard CES 70:2017 establishes compulsory specifications for iodized edible salt intended for direct human consumption and food manufacturing. Developed under the Technical Committee for Food Additives this standard aligns with the WTO Technical Barriers to Trade Agreement. It defines iodized edible salt as a crystalline product primarily composed of sodium chloride, sourced from sea, rock deposits, or natural brine, and fortified with iodine compounds such as sodium or potassium iodide or iodate. The standard prescribes chemical composition requirements, including minimum sodium chloride content, iodine levels, and limits for contaminants such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, copper, and mercury. It also specifies permissible levels of anti-caking agents and processing aids, ensuring compliance with national and Codex food additive standards. Packaging requirements mandate airtight containers made of HDPE, PP, or LDPE-lined jute bags to preserve iodine content, with size limits depending if it is cooking salt or table salt. Hygienic practices in production, storage, and transportation are also established to prevent contamination and iodine loss. Labeling provisions require clear identification of product type, iodine content, origin, batch number, expiry date, and storage instructions in Amharic or English, alongside compliance with general prepackaged food labeling standards.