Sea Salt vs Table Salt: What’s The Difference?

Salt is one of the most essential ingredients in any kitchen, but not all salt is created equal. Sea salt and table salt may look similar at first glance, yet they come from different sources, undergo different processes, and bring distinct qualities to your cooking. So, which one belongs in your pantry?

How they’re made

Sea salt is produced by evaporating seawater, usually through natural sun drying. It often undergoes minimal processing, which means it retains trace minerals like magnesium, calcium, and potassium. These minerals can influence both the flavour and colour of the salt.

A famous example of this process is Fleur de Sel, harvested by hand from the surface of salt ponds in the Guérande region of France, where the delicate crystals form under specific weather conditions. This traditional method results in a salt that is prized for its purity, moist texture, and subtle briny flavour.

Table salt, on the other hand, is typically mined from underground salt deposits. It’s heavily refined to remove minerals and impurities, then blended with additives such as anti-caking agents to keep it free-flowing. Table salt generally lacks the beneficial minerals found in many other salts.

Texture and appearance

Sea salt crystals are larger and more irregular, often appearing as flakes or coarse grains. This texture adds crunch and visual appeal, making it ideal for finishing dishes. Table salt is finely ground and consistent in shape, which may make it easier to measure and mix evenly into recipes.

Flavour profile

Sea salt has a more complex flavour thanks to its natural mineral content. It tastes clean, slightly briny, and adds character to food. Table salt delivers a   direct saltiness, which can be overpowering if not measured carefully.

Best uses for sea salt

Sea salt shines when used as a finishing touch—on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, salads, chocolate brownies, or even cocktails. Its flaky texture enhances presentation and provides bursts of flavour that don't get lost in the dish. Use it to top freshly baked focaccia, sprinkle over heirloom tomatoes with olive oil, or add a finishing hit to seared scallops.

It can also be used on sweets like salted caramels and chocolate truffles for a contrast that balances richness with a touch of brine. Because it dissolves more slowly than table salt, it’s also ideal for dishes where you want textural variation.

Explore our range of sea salts

If you’re ready to upgrade your seasoning game, browse our full collection of gourmet sea salts now. From delicate flakes to bold volcanic blends, there’s a salt for every taste. Got a question? Get in touch with our team today.