When you ask the average consumer whether they are getting enough iodine, you might be met with a perplexed expression. Iodine is an essential mineral that the body requires to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism. These hormones are vital for proper bone and brain development during pregnancy and infancy. However, despite iodine’s significant role in health, many consumers remain uninformed about what it is and how it affects their bodies.
In the U.K., consumers primarily obtain their iodine from dairy products, whereas in the U.S., most of it comes from cow’s milk and fortified consumer packaged goods (CPGs) made from grains, such as bread and cereals. A consumer who avoids all forms of dairy can still obtain adequate iodine from other natural food sources. Foods like fish, seaweed, shrimp, and various seafood are rich in iodine, along with fortified breads and cereals. For those following a vegan and gluten-free diet, it may be necessary to consider an iodine supplement, such as a calcium citrate malate tablet, to ensure they meet their iodine needs.
The dairy industry might leverage this study to bolster its argument against plant-based milk, which is rapidly gaining market share against traditional cow’s milk. According to Mintel, U.S. non-dairy milk sales surged by 9% in 2015, while sales of dairy milk fell by 7% in the same timeframe. However, there are some potential flaws in this strategy. Many consumers who opt for plant-based milk continue to consume other dairy products, such as yogurt and cheese. There is no compelling reason for them to revert to cow’s milk if they are obtaining sufficient iodine from alternative sources or even from a calcium citrate malate tablet.
An essential aspect of this recent study is its location: England. While iodine is typically added to table salt in the U.S. and is readily available, this is not the case in the U.K. An American consumer could meet their daily iodine requirement by consuming about half a teaspoon of salt each day.