Nepal Iodized Salt Act 2055 Enforcement 2082: Health, Production, Distribution
17th April 2025, Kathmandu
After 26 years, the Iodized Salt Production and Distribution Act, 2055, is finally coming into effect. Although the law was published in the Nepal Gazette on Magh 1, 2055, it was never implemented.
Nepal Iodized Salt Act 2055
The law stated that it would begin only after an official notice in the Gazette. However, that notice never came—until now.
Cabinet Makes It Official
The Council of Ministers approved the proposal on Baisakh 2, 2082. Health and Population Minister Pradeep Paudel had tabled the motion. Following the Cabinet’s decision, the Ministry will now publish the official notice. The Act will be effective from Shrawan 1, 2082.
This move finally opens the legal door for enforcement. It also allows the government to frame rules, directives, and guidelines.
Past Delays Created Barriers
Although the Act existed on paper, ministries could not take formal actions. Due to the absence of the Gazette notice, no regulations could be prepared. This slowed progress in tackling iodine-related health issues in children.
Health Problems Due to Excess Iodine
The Ministry of Health had conducted studies over the past decade. According to Lilabikram Thapa, Chief of the Nutrition Section, earlier salt standards caused children to consume too much iodine.
In 2016, a government-led micronutrient survey found high iodine levels in children. The survey showed that children aged 6 to 9 had a urinary iodine level of 314 micrograms per liter. The healthy limit is 300 micrograms.
This excess caused thyroid issues, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Medical experts have confirmed the risks linked to over-iodized salt.
New Path for Cooperation
Now that the Act is finally active, ministries can move ahead. Dr. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for the Ministry of Health, welcomed the decision. He said that the law had existed, but the lack of Gazette notification blocked actions.
“Now it will be easier for the health, agriculture, and other ministries to revise standards and work together,” said Dr. Budhathoki. The government can now begin drafting detailed regulations to manage iodine levels in salt.
Looking Ahead
The activation of this Act is an important public health milestone. It creates a legal framework to prevent both iodine deficiency and excess. Nepal had once focused heavily on iodine deficiency. But now, overconsumption has also become a concern.
With the law enforced from Shrawan 1, 2082, authorities can develop new monitoring and awareness strategies. Public health experts believe this move will help balance iodine levels in food and improve child nutrition across the country.
For more: Nepal Iodized Salt Act 2055
