Meet The Producer: Cornish Sea Salt

Our attitude to salt has changed in recent years. From a time when limiting salt intake as much as possible was seen as the only healthy approach, to a better understanding of the value of good quality salt; no self-respecting cook would now be without a pot of sea salt within pinching distance!

Sea salt has natural health benefits, can be used sparingly, is considered a versatile cooking ingredient in its own right, and also tastes great. So it’s no surprise that our Duchy home-brand, Cornish Sea Salt, is now exported to over 33 countries worldwide and is a modern kitchen essential for home and professional cooks.

Graham Bradshaw has been involved with the Cornish Sea Salt Company from the very beginning. He is an official wholesaler and brand ambassador for the company, which is based in Gweek near Helston. Graham represents the award-winning producer at events and markets across Cornwall, and has converted thousands of people to the benefits of sea salt!

How did it all start?

“I’ve worked with Cornish Sea Salt since they set up the company, and I’ve been selling their salts here at Truro Farmer’s Market for over 10 years. I became Chairman of the market three years ago, a position I’m very proud to hold,” Graham explains.

Tony Fraser, the original founder of Cornish Sea Salt, was inspired to set up a modern version of this ancient harvesting industry when he came across an Iron Age salt works in a remote cove on the south coast of Cornwall while out walking.

From modest beginnings, the Cornish Sea Salt Company is now the fastest growing UK Sea Salt brand, making a wide range of products and seasonings.

Where does the produce come from?

Cornish Sea Salt is one of very few companies who harvest salt from open water (the protected waters of the Atlantic lapping at the shores of The Lizard) where geological conditions bestow a high mineral content. Rather than the artificial sodium chloride sold as table salt, Cornish Sea Salt contains magnesium and calcium from the unique natural environment just off the coast.

What products are available?

Graham sells the full, extensive range of Cornish Sea Salt products at his popular stall. This includes a basic core range of flakes and crystals, a selection of salt combined with various seasonings, and a range of seaweed salts.

He also sells an exclusive selection which are only available via his market stall. These are Porcini Mushroom, Rosemary, and Caramelised Onion.

Why should we choose sea salt?

“Cornish Sea Salt products are low in sodium and high in minerals,” explains Graham. “They provide all the goodness and taste our bodies need, with no added ‘nasties’. Because of the quality you only need a small amount, so they go a long way too.”

He continues: “They are such versatile, useful ingredients – whatever kind of food you love to cook they come in handy! From barbequed meats to vegan or gluten free dishes, traditional British fare to global street food, a pinch of good quality salt can take any dish from dull to dazzling!”

Graham, who attends the market every Saturday, reports that more people are taking an experimental approach to cooking, and enjoying spending time getting creative with their weekly meals. Given the practical and flavoursome use of the Cornish Sea Salt range, and its Cornish provenance, it’s not surprising that it has become a modern kitchen essential for market regulars.

What have been the challenges?

“For a few years at least, there was a common misconception that salt isn’t healthy. Now people are beginning to understand that it’s much more nuanced than that,” says Graham. “The great thing about the market is that you get a chance to talk to people, and give them advice and ideas about the products. From retirees to students, locals to holidaymakers, everyone values a bit of help and inspiration. And that means I can help people understand that sea salt and table salt are really two completely different things!”

What is the best thing about your role at the market?

“I’ve been part of the market for over a decade, and I can honestly say that it’s better than ever right now! We’ve kept to our principles of only allowing genuine local farmers, producers and artisan makers, so the quality and provenance is excellent, but we’ve also had an influx of new producers giving the market a really fresh and exciting feel. We have a waiting list for stalls now – there’s such a buzz that people really want to be a part of it.

“I think people like the relaxed atmosphere, as they can shop outdoors and chat to the producers – so much better than rushing around the supermarket. The market has become a real destination, a Cornish food and drink experience to be proud of, plus we have some fabulous artisan craft producers to add interest and variety.

“I’m very proud to be a part of it, and to see a new generation of people discover the joys of our wonderful market.”