ABSTRACT
Objectives: To assess the knowledge regarding Iodine deficiency disorders and iodized salt among selected persons involved in providing cooked food to the doctors and students of the Medical colleges of India and to study the procurement and storage practices and iodine content of salt in kitchens of Hostels and Canteens of the Medical colleges of India Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted involving 24 medical colleges in 11 states. Knowledge assessment of 96 person responsible for purchase of salt in hostel/canteen kitchen and 97 supervisors were conducted. Salt samples from 135 hostel/canteen kitchen were tested for iodine content using titration. Results: Among the participants responsible for purchase of salt in the canteen, 80.2% have heard about iodine and 82.3% think that iodine is necessary for better health. Eighty five percent of the purchasing personnel think that it was necessary to take iodized salt. Out of the total, 85% of purchase in charge and 93% of supervisors said that they purchase only iodized salt for the hostel/canteen kitchen. Only 31.9% of the salt samples were stored in air tight containers. Eighty one percent of salt samples received were adequately iodized. Conclusions: The knowledge regarding the Iodine Deficiency Disorder and iodized salt was found to be adequate in the study and has resulted in emphasis on purchase of Iodized salt. But the existence of inadequately iodized salt in the samples collected shows the need for strict monitoring and enforcement of Prevention of Food Adulteration act.