Under the Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act, the expected level of iodine in iodized salt at production level is NOT less than –
**Core Concept**
The Prevention of Food Adulteration (PFA) Act in India sets standards for the quality of food products, including iodized salt. Iodized salt is a crucial source of iodine, essential for preventing iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). The PFA Act specifies the minimum iodine content in iodized salt to ensure public health.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Iodized salt is fortified with potassium iodate or potassium iodide to increase its iodine content. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian government recommend a minimum of 30 milligrams of iodine per kilogram of salt. This level is essential for preventing iodine deficiency, which can lead to conditions such as goiter, hypothyroidism, and cretinism. The iodine content in iodized salt is typically achieved through the addition of potassium iodate or potassium iodide.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it is not a recognized standard for iodine content in iodized salt.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is lower than the recommended minimum iodine content in iodized salt.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not a valid or recognized standard for iodine content in iodized salt.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
It is essential to note that the iodine content in iodized salt can vary depending on the manufacturer and the country of production. However, the PFA Act in India sets a minimum standard of 30 milligrams of iodine per kilogram of salt to ensure public health.
**Correct Answer: C. 30 milligrams per kilogram.**