Iodine is a trace inorganic mieronu-trient required for human health as it is used for biosynthesis of iodine-related hormones (e.g., L-thyroxine) by the thyroid gland. Due to the serious impact of iodine deficiency disorders, many countries have introduced mandatory iodi/ation of table salt as a public health measure to prevent goitre, cretinism and chronic disease risk in the population. Mild to moderate iodine deficiency is particular!} a concern for pregnant and lariating women due to its impact on fetal and infant brain development. Indeed, iodine deficiency remains the leading cause of preventable cognitive impairment in children with over two billion of the global population at risk. Since over 80 per cent of salt intake is now derived from processed foods in most industrialized countries, changes in dietary patterns may contribute to iodide inadequacy since the food industry is not mandated to use iodized salt.
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