Abstract:
Iodine is a crucial trace element for human nutrition that is very important for the secretion of
thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency disorders are caused by inadequate iodine intake. Iodination
of table salt is one of the universally used methods to eliminate iodine deficiency disorders and
thyroid-related diseases. Iodine content levels in table salt can vary during iodination for a
variety of reasons. The main aim of this study is to determine iodine content in commercially
available table salts and assess of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of retailers and consumers
in Jimma town, South West Ethiopia. The iodine content of different salt samples was
determined by rapid test kit and iodometric titration and semi-structured questionnaire was used
for the assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of retailers and consumers. Statistical
analyses were analyzed using the software, Statistical Package for the Social Science version 26
and results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The content of iodine in the studied salt
samples determined by iodometric titration was found between 35.37 ± 0.25 mg/kg to 82.05 ±
0.67 mg/kg. The highest iodine content was obtained in Koketi (82.05 ± 0.67 mg/kg) and the
least iodine content was found in Afar salt (35.37 ± 0.25 mg/kg). Rapid test kit analysis showed
that the iodine content in Koket, Liq, and Jimmiti is greater than 15 mg/kg, while the iodine
content in Jimma, NM iodized salt, Abay, and Afar is less than 15 mg/kg. Shaga, Barta, and
Gold showed no iodine content. The World Health Organization recommends that iodine be
added to salt as a public health measure to prevent iodine deficiency. The recommended iodine
content in iodized salt is at least 15 mg/kg but not more than 40 mg/kg. Regarding iodized salt
usage, storage, and practice, a total of 90 participants (60 consumers and 30 retailers) were
assessed for knowledge, attitude, and practice, the majority of consumers and retailers responded
that they do not have awareness about the health benefits of iodized salt. According to the result,
most of the people selected from the study area had poor Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice.
