Salt consumption and utilization pattern at household level of Gonda and Barabanki districts of eastern U.P.

A study was conducted in Gonda and Barabanki districts of eastern U.P. regarding salt consumption and utilization pattern of selected households. Hundred households were selected from each block and surveyed through questionnaire method about their general information such as name, age, educational status, occupation, income and specific information regarding household practices of consumption, purchasing, usage and storage of salt. Result revealed that 40% respondent from both district were in the age group 31-40 yrs and 31.5% respondent were illiterate, where as only 2.5% respondent were graduate. 40.5% respondent of both districts were doing farming in their own land, while only 13.5% respondents were doing service. 51.5% respondents in both districts belonged to low income group where as 18% respondent belonged to high income group. Result concluded that 88.5% respondent in both district were consuming crystalline salt and only 11.5% respondent were using powder salt. 7.5% respondents in both district were used branded salt and 92.5% respondent were using uncommon brand salts. The prevalence of goiter in Gonda and Barabanki districts was found to be no more. The population were consuming iodized salt but a part of iodine was lost from salt due to improper handling, storage and improper uses practice of salt.