Business

Exploring the goodness of Sri Lankan natural sea salt and lagoon salt

Published

3 years ago

2023/07/20

Sahan Weerasooriya

Dr Ajith Shanmuganathan

By Dr Ajith Shanmuganathan

Salt has played a significant role throughout human history, enhancing the flavour of countless dishes. In recent times, natural sea salt and lagoon salt have gained popularity due to their unique characteristics and potential health benefits. This article aims to explore the goodness of these natural salts, highlighting their origins, extraction methods, mineral composition, and advantages for human consumption. By understanding the qualities and properties of sea salt and lagoon salt, individuals can make informed decisions about incorporating these natural salts into their diets.

The history of salt in Sri Lanka dates back thousands of years, with salt playing a significant role in the country’s culture, economy, and culinary traditions. The island’s geographical location, surrounded by the Indian Ocean, provided ample salt production and trade opportunities. Early records indicate that salt production in Sri Lanka can be traced back to ancient times.

The ancient chronicle, the Mahavamsa, mentions salt pans’ existence during King Pandukabhaya’s reign (4th century BCE). These salt pans, known as “Ussangoda,” were located in the Hambantota district and were a vital source of salt for the local population. Salt production expanded significantly during the Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa periods (3rd century BCE – 13th century CE). Salt was primarily produced in shallow brine pools, where seawater was allowed to evaporate, leaving behind salt crystals. These pools, known as “Lunama,” were constructed along the coastline and in the interior regions near saltwater lagoons. The salt produced was primarily used for domestic consumption, preservation of food, and trade. Salt played a crucial role in the Sri Lankan economy during the medieval period. It was a valuable commodity subject to taxation and regulation by the ruling kings. In the 16th century, with the arrival of European colonial powers, the salt industry in Sri Lanka underwent significant changes. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British introduced new techniques and technologies in salt production. They constructed salt pans and introduced more efficient evaporation methods. The British, in particular, played a pivotal role in modernizing salt production and expanding its scale. They established large-scale saltworks in coastal areas, including Kalpitiya, Puttalam, and Hambantota, to cater to the growing demand. In the modern era, the salt industry in Sri Lanka has evolved further.

Today, salt production is primarily carried out through solar evaporation methods. Seawater is channelled into shallow pans or reservoirs and allowed to evaporate naturally under the sun’s heat. The remaining salt crystals are collected, washed, and processed for distribution. Salt production in Sri Lanka is concentrated in coastal areas and saltwater lagoons, including Hambantota, Puttalam, Kalpitiya, Mannar, and Trincomalee. These regions benefit from their proximity to the sea, allowing for salt extraction through solar evaporation methods.

Originating from the evaporation of seawater, natural sea salt is produced by collecting seawater in shallow pools and allowing it to evaporate under controlled conditions. This process ensures the retention of essential minerals and trace elements. Sea salt boasts many minerals, including magnesium, potassium, calcium, zinc, and iodine. These minerals are vital in maintaining electrolyte balance, supporting nerve function, and contributing to overall health and well-being. Consuming natural sea salt in moderation may offer potential health benefits, such as improved hydration, digestion, immune function, blood pressure regulation, respiratory health, and skin conditions. Lagoon salt, also known as salt flats or pans, is harvested from inland saltwater lagoons. These lagoons form when seawater enters shallow depressions and evaporates, leaving salt deposits behind. Lagoon salt is manually or mechanically collected from these salt flats. It is characterized by its high mineral content, including potassium, magnesium, and calcium. The specific mineral composition may vary depending on the geographical location and local conditions. Like sea salt, lagoon salt offers potential health benefits, such as supporting electrolyte balance, aiding muscle function, contributing to bone health, regulating blood sugar levels, and keeping a healthy cardiovascular system.

Natural sea salt and lagoon salt possess distinct characteristics. Sea salt is renowned for its briny flavour and coarse texture, making it ideal for finishing dishes. In contrast, lagoon salt often exhibits a milder taste and finer texture, which lends itself well to seasoning during cooking. Both salts serve as flavour enhancers in cooking and baking, offering versatility in various culinary applications. When selecting natural salts, it is crucial to prioritize sustainability and purity. Choosing salts harvested responsibly and free from additives or contaminants ensures the highest quality product. Incorporating natural sea salt into your culinary endeavours enhances your dishes’ flavours and offers potential health benefits through its rich mineral content. Embrace the goodness of these natural salts and savour the depth of flavour they bring to your meals.

(The writer is a Chartered Engineer and Consultant in business administration & Engineering and a Volunteer of IMechE and IET)

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Related Topics:Dr Ajith Shanmuganathan Sri Lankan natural sea salt and lagoon salt

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“We Are Building a Stable, Transparent and Resilient Sri Lanka Ready for Sustainable Investment Partnerships” – PM

Published

10 hours ago

2026/02/15

Priyan

Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya addressed members of the Chief Executives Organization (CEO) during a session held on Thursday [3 February 2026] at the Shangri-La Hotel, Colombo, as part of CEO’s Pearl of the Indian Ocean: Sri Lanka programme.

The Chief Executives Organization is a global network of business leaders representing diverse industries across more than 60 countries. The visiting delegation comprised leading entrepreneurs and executives exploring Sri Lanka’s economic prospects, investment climate, and development trajectory.

Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister emphasized that Sri Lanka’s reform agenda is anchored in structural transformation, transparency, and inclusive growth.

“We are committed not only to ensuring equitable access to education, but equitable access to quality education. Our reforms are designed to create flexible pathways for young people beyond general education and to build a skilled and adaptable workforce for the future.”

She highlighted that the Government is undertaking a fundamental pedagogical shift towards a more student-focused, less examination-driven system as part of a broader national transformation.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s recent political transition, the Prime Minister stated:

“The people gave us a mandate to restore accountability, strengthen democratic governance, and ensure that opportunity is not determined by patronage or privilege, but by fairness and merit. Sri Lanka is stabilizing. We have recorded positive growth, restored confidence in key sectors, and are committed to sustaining this momentum. But our objective is not short-term recovery it is long-term resilience.”

Addressing governance reforms aimed at improving the investment climate, she said:

“We are aligning our legislative and regulatory frameworks with international standards to provide predictability, investor protection, and institutional transparency. Sustainable investment requires trust, and trust requires reform.”

Turning to the recent impact of Cyclone Ditwa, which affected all 25 districts of the country, the Prime Minister underscored the urgency of climate resilience.

“Climate change is not a distant threat. It is a lived reality for our people. We are rebuilding not simply to recover, but to build resilience, strengthen disaster mitigation systems, and protect vulnerable communities.”

Inviting CEO members to consider Sri Lanka as a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region, she highlighted opportunities in value-added mineral exports, logistics and shipping, agro-processing, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and innovation-driven sectors.

“We are not looking for speculative gains. We are seeking long-term partners who share our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and inclusive development.”

She further emphasized collaboration in education, research, vocational training, and innovation as essential pillars for sustained economic growth.

Concluding her address, the Prime Minister expressed appreciation to the Chief Executives Organization for selecting Sri Lanka as part of its 2026 programme and reaffirmed the Government’s readiness to engage constructively with responsible global investors.

The event was attended by the Governor of the Western Province, Hanif Yusoof, and other distinguished guests.

[Prime Minister’s Media Division]

Business

High Commissioner in Pakistan urges high level business visit to Colombo

Published

11 hours ago

2026/02/15

Thilina Walpola

High Commissioner Senevirathne and Dr. Munir at meeting

The High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathne, met Dr. Zeelaf Munir, Chairperson of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC), in Karachi on Feb. 6 and urged a high level visit of Pakistani business people to Sri Lanka, a news release from the High Commission said.

Dr. Munir, who also serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM), leads Pakistan’s premier business policy advocacy body, which plays a key role in promoting a conducive business environment, export growth, and industrial development.

The High Commissioner who was warmly received by Dr. Munir at her office briefed her on the current economic and political landscape in Sri Lanka, highlighting the country’s improving economic outlook, enhanced political stability, and a favourable environment for foreign investment, the release said.

He also outlined the policy priorities of the new Government, with particular emphasis on ongoing economic reforms, investment-friendly initiatives, and opportunities to further strengthen bilateral economic and trade cooperation between Sri Lanka and Pakistan, it said.

He invited Dr. Munir to consider leading a delegation of prominent business leaders and investors to Sri Lanka, with a view to engaging with Sri Lankan counterparts and exploring potential investment opportunities and avenues for collaboration across key sectors.

The meeting was facilitated by. Honorary Consul of Sri Lanka in Hyderabad, Mehmood Mandviwalla, who was also present. Minister and Head of Chancery of the Sri Lanka High Commission in Islamabad, Christy Ruban, and Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi, Sanjeewa Pattiwila also participated at the meeting.

Business

IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo Returns, Kicks Off #ActiveColombo City Transformation

Published

11 hours ago

2026/02/15

Thilina Walpola

All partners at the Ironman 70.3 Colombo Launch with Vraîe Cally Balthazaar, Mayor of Colombo at the event held last Wednesaday at Shangri-La.

Officials from the Western Provincial Council, Colombo Municipal Council, and event organisers marked the official launch of IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo – Presented by Port City Colombo today at Shangri-La Colombo, the Host Hotel, signalling the return of Sri Lanka’s premier endurance event and the start of the long-term #ActiveColombo initiative.

Scheduled from 19–22 February 2026, the world-class triathlon will anchor #ActiveColombo Week, combining international competition with a city-wide celebration of sport, health, and urban vitality. Highlights include the KAYA Colombo – Active Lifestyle & International Expo (19–21 Feb), the family-focused IRONKIDS Colombo (21 Feb), and the IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo triathlon (22 Feb), featuring swim, bike, and run events at Port City Colombo, the Official Venue Partner.

The event is set to welcome nearly 1,000 athletes from over 49 countries, many visiting Sri Lanka for the first time, bringing international media attention and significant economic impact across hospitality, aviation, retail, and transport. As part of the globally recognised IRONMAN® circuit, Colombo now joins iconic host cities such as Sydney, Nice, and Muscat, reinforcing its position as South Asia’s emerging endurance sports hub.

“IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo embodies the spirit of resilience and excellence,” said Rajan Thananayagam, Director of Serendib Multisport (Pvt) Ltd. “This event puts Sri Lanka on the world stage and showcases Colombo as a vibrant, welcoming destination for athletes and their families.”

The launch also introduced #ActiveColombo, a long-term initiative aimed at transforming Colombo into South Asia’s leading Active City. The programme focuses on activating everyday urban spaces through parks, waterfronts, beaches, clean streets, shaded corridors, and safe environments that encourage walking, cycling, yoga, and other outdoor activities.

“Through #ActiveColombo, we aim to inspire a more active generation while strengthening Colombo’s appeal as a globally competitive capital,” said Hanif Yusoof, Governor of the Western Province. Mayor Vraîe Cally Balthazaar added that the initiative symbolises inclusive growth, promoting healthier streets, greener corridors, and vibrant public spaces for residents and visitors alike.

With signature policies such as the “Every Active Street is a Shaded Street” Shade the Road initiative, Colombo aims to combine urban health, economic growth, and international sports tourism. Experts say cities that invest in active lifestyles see 10–20% reductions in long-term healthcare costs, safer streets, and higher visitor spending.

By linking IRONMAN 70.3 Colombo with #ActiveColombo, organisers hope to position the city as a healthier home for citizens, a premier destination for high-value tourists, and a credible host for global sporting and lifestyle events, cementing Colombo’s reputation as South Asia’s Active Capital.