Evaluation of Washing Plant Salt Processing Units in Improving The Quality and Competitiveness of People's Salt

Abstract

Quality improvement of domestic salt is important to reduce the salt import. For this reason, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (KKP) has established some programs, such as improving the quality of salt by using a washing plant. This study aims to evaluate the washing plant salt processing unit used to improve the quality of people's salt in East Java, namely in Sampang and Pasuruan Regencies. The study was conducted based on evaluation research approach. Salt samples before and after passing through the washing plant were analyzed in the laboratory. The analysis included NaCl content, water content, insoluble components, impurity minerals (Ca and Mg), and heavy metals (Fe). The results showed that the quality of people's salt before undergoing the washing process does not meet the requirements as consumption salt (SNI 4435-2017). Meanwhile, after passing the washing plant, the NaCl content increased from 93% to 95–96%. Additionally, impurities minerals (Ca and Mg), and heavy metals (Fe) decreased, i.e. for Ca from 877-1799 ppm to 399-1101 ppm; Mg from 2462-8064 ppm to 793-992 ppm; and Fe from 23-43 ppm to 8-11 ppm. In general, the results of the paired t-test showed a quite significant difference of salt quality between before and after the washing process. These results indicate that the washing plant used can improve the quality of traditional 's salt.