Small-scale farmers in Guinea are using a new method for extracting naturally-iodized salt without damaging the environment. The method uses the combined power of the sun and wind to crystallize brine on black canvas.

Despite its advantages, commercializing the ‘solar’ salt has been a challenge. Competition with Senegal, lack of processing capacity, low consumer awareness, and limited institutional recognition have made it difficult to promote the product in Guinea.

Through a collaboration between the World Food Program (WFP) and the federation of peasant organizations of Lower Guinea, local producers are now helping meet WFP's demand for iodized salt. About 114,000 people receiving WFP assistance in Guinea will use the solar salt over the coming six months.