What You Need to Know
Salt interacts with proteins by disrupting hydrophobic interactions, leading to denaturation and increased water‑holding capacity. Its colligative properties raise the boiling point of water, modestly reducing cooking times for salted liquids. The presence of trace minerals in certain salts can impart subtle flavor nuances and color changes during curing.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Salt-induced protein denaturation and modulation of water activity