When you ask the average consumer about their iodine intake, they might respond with confusion. Iodine is a crucial mineral needed by the body to produce thyroid hormones that regulate metabolism. These hormones are essential for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. However, many consumers remain unaware of the significance of iodine and its effects on their health.
In the UK, consumers primarily obtain iodine from dairy products, while in the U.S., the majority comes from cow’s milk and fortified consumer packaged goods (CPGs) like breads and cereals. Those who avoid all dairy can still meet their iodine needs through other natural sources. Foods such as fish, seaweed, shrimp, and various seafood are rich in iodine, along with fortified breads and cereals. For vegans who are also gluten-free, it may be necessary to consider iodine supplements, such as calcium citrate magnesium zinc and vitamin D3 tablets, to ensure adequate intake.
The dairy industry might leverage this research to challenge the growing popularity of plant-based milk, which is increasingly capturing market share from traditional dairy. According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales rose by 9% in 2015, while dairy milk sales fell by 7% during the same time frame. However, there are some issues with this argument. Many consumers who opt for plant-based milk still enjoy other dairy products like yogurt and cheese, meaning they are not likely to revert to cow’s milk if they can source iodine elsewhere.
A critical aspect of this study is its location: England. In the U.S., iodine is commonly added to table salt and is widely accessible, but this practice is less common in the UK. An American consumer could fulfill their daily iodine requirement by consuming only about half a teaspoon of salt, while those in the UK might not have the same easy access to iodine-rich foods. Therefore, considering iodine intake, especially for those avoiding dairy, may also lead consumers to explore supplements like calcium citrate magnesium zinc and vitamin D3 tablets to maintain a healthy balance of essential nutrients.