[The fortification of salt with iodine worldwide and its implication in Israel].

Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) are still a major public health concern in many populations worldwide. In the last century different kinds of foods (mainly salt) were used as vehicles for iodine fortification programs. Iodization of salt was first introduced in the 20s, but this strategy of universal salt iodization was adopted by the international health organizations only in the 90s as the method of choice for IDD elimination. This review describes the reasons for preferring this method to others, forms of iodine formulas currently available for use, the accepted criteria for assessing iodine status in the population, and a summary of the situation in certain countries worldwide regarding: iodine status in the population, salt and/or other food fortifications with iodine and legislation, if existing. The wealth of experience worldwide will assist decision-makers in Israel regarding salt fortification programs in this country. The article describes the known data existing in Israel and suggests strategies for iodine fortification in the country.