cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/1070179

We don't think much of it because it is so common. Consider, though, how many ways there are to use it. Flavoring, curing, preservation, etc. Plain salt has no expiration date, but flavored does.

Shelf life:

https://www.scienceworld.ca/stories/ever-wonder-about-iodized-salt/

https://www.mortonsalt.com/article/morton-salt-expiration-guide/

If shit were to seriously hit the fan, salt could once again become a much sought after commodity. It has been so important throughout history that at one point it was worth more than its weight in gold. Roman soldiers received part of their pay on the frontier in salt, and, in fact, the word "salary" comes from "salt".

If you live near the ocean, you can even produce your own, thus insuring a steady supply and even trade goods.

If you are simply interested in the history of salt, I recommend this as an audiobook:

https://www.amazon.com/Salt-World-History-Mark-Kurlansky/dp/0142001619