Government Implements Iodized Salt Act After 26-Year Delay

After more than two decades of inaction, the government has finally implemented the Act related to the production and sale of iodized salt—26 years after its original enactment in 2000.

The Act, which had remained dormant due to the failure of successive governments to formally notify its implementation in the Nepal Gazette, was activated following a Cabinet decision on April 15. The decision was based on a proposal presented by Minister for Health and Population Pradip Paudel.

Although the Act had been published in the Gazette on January 15, 1999, no notification for its enforcement was issued until now, preventing the creation of necessary regulations and guidelines. The Council of Ministers has now decided that the Act will officially come into force on July 17.

With its implementation, a legal framework is finally in place to address emerging health issues caused by excessive iodine consumption—especially in children. Health officials say the delay in updating iodine standards in salt has led to growing health risks.

Lila Bikram Thapa, head of the Nutrition Section at the Department of Health Services, cited a Ministry of Health study conducted a decade ago, which found alarming levels of iodine in children. A 2016 micronutrient assessment revealed that iodine concentration in the urine of children aged six to nine years averaged 314 micrograms per litre—exceeding the safe limit of 300 micrograms per litre.

Health experts warn that such excess intake can lead to conditions like high blood pressure and thyroid disorders. “Now that the Act is finally in force, it will be easier for the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Agriculture, and other concerned bodies to draft regulations, revise iodine content standards, and carry out further interventions,” said Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population.

The move is expected to pave the way for more effective monitoring, regulation, and public health action regarding the production and consumption of iodized salt in Nepal.