Rock salt, being a natural mineral, does not expire in the traditional sense. Pure rock salt, composed primarily of sodium chloride, can last for several years without deteriorating. However, some factors can affect its quality and appearance.
- Moisture: If moisture gets into rock salt, it can cause clumping. This doesn't make the salt unsafe to eat, but it can make it less aesthetically pleasing.
- Impurities: Himalayan pink salt and other varieties containing minerals can degrade over time. This degradation is not necessarily harmful but can affect the salt's flavor and color.
Although rock salt does not spoil, the "expiry date" you see on packaging is meant to ensure the salt's quality and appearance remain consistent. This expiry date is usually more about maintaining the salt's optimal condition rather than safety.
Therefore, while rock salt doesn't "go off" in the sense of becoming unsafe to eat, it can change in quality over time, especially if it's exposed to moisture or contains impurities.