Shaking it up: why salt is this summer’s hottest ingredient

Humble seasoning thrust into food trend spotlight, buoyed by its reputation as a thirst quencher during a record-breaking summer

As Europe braces for another heatwave, some people are seeking relief from an unlikely source. The store cupboard is surpassing the freezer, with salt becoming a key ingredient in the battle to cool down.

Salty drinks are gaining popularity as thirst quenchers during this scorching summer. Commonly found in countries including India and Mexico, these traditional street corner drinks, which can be rehydrating, are being hailed as a salve in a heat-soaked UK. The trend is being driven by several factors, including a preference for savoury rather than sweet flavours alongside a growing interest in premium salts.