National, March 21, 2026: Iron deficiency is one of the leading causes of anaemia and remains one of India’s most prevalent yet overlooked nutritional challenge. Iron deficiency silently affects energy levels, immunity and cognitive development, particularly among children, adolescents and women, thereby affecting their overall wellbeing.  To address this gap, ITC Aashirvaad, one of India’s most trusted food brands, announced the launch of Aashirvaad Iron Shakti Salt, fortified with visible iron boosters along with iodine.

Aashirvaad Iron Shakti Salt is a scientifically designed solution that delivers iron through salt, a basic everyday ingredient in Indian households. 1 teaspoon (5g) of this salt provides 25% of average daily iron requirement based on ICMR-NIN dietary guidelines, while ensuring no change in food’s taste. The product enables families to boost their iron intake daily, with minimal habit shift. For example, 1 teaspoon (5g) Salt contains iron equivalent to 1 bowl of spinach.  

According to National Surveys, 67% pre-schoolers, 59% adolescent girls, 57% adult women, 31% adolescent boys [Source: NFHS-5 (2019-21)] and 24% school age children (5-9 years) in India are anaemic [Source: CNNS (2019)], indicating widespread iron inadequacy across age groups and geographies. Current Indian dietary practices with limited iron rich foods makes it difficult to meet the daily iron requirements through diet alone. For simplified context, daily iron need for children (4 to 18 years) & adults range from 11 to 32 mg, equivalent to iron from 2 to 7 bowls of spinach* or 7 to 21 beetroots**.

Speaking on the launch, Mr. Anuj Rustagi, Business Unit Chief Executive, Staples, ITC Ltd, said, “Visible signs of Iron deficiency are often ignored, but its impact on everyday energy level is persistent in India, especially among young children and adult women. Over the last 5 years through ITC Project Samposhan, working along with various public health organizations and NGOs, we have demonstrated the impact of regular use of Iron fortified salt in reducing Anemia. The launch of Aashirvaad Iron Shakti Salt is a culmination of this learning. With Aashirvaad Iron Shakti Salt, we are enabling families incorporate essential micronutrients iron and iodine into daily cooking. To encourage adoption, we are launching this innovation at the same price as regular Aashirvaad Iodized Salt.”

The new Aashirvaad Iron Shakti Salt has been launched in Bengaluru across retail stores and is priced at MRP Rs. 30. Plans are underway to introduce the product across India in near future.