By Dr. Samuel Helms • Updated Mar 24, 2022
Sodium chloride (NaCl)—commonly known as table salt—is a crystalline compound formed by sodium and chloride ions. Its structure is highly stable, making it the most ubiquitous salt on Earth.
Sodium chlorite (NaClO₂) is a less familiar, oxidizing agent. In solid form it is unstable, so it is typically sold as a clear aqueous solution. The added oxygen atom gives it distinct reactivity compared to NaCl.
Table salt is essential for seasoning, preserving, and flavoring foods. It also serves critical roles in industrial processes such as paper manufacturing, textile dyeing, and the production of various chemicals.
Sodium chlorite is mainly used as a bleaching and disinfecting agent in paper and textile production. In the food and health sectors it is marketed as a disinfectant, though its effectiveness and safety are context‑dependent.
Table salt is naturally abundant—present in seawater and mined in vast underground deposits worldwide. Sodium chlorite, on the other hand, must be synthesized from sodium chlorate, chlorine dioxide, and hydrogen peroxide, and is sold only in solution.
Some proponents claim that diluted sodium chlorite solutions can aid in treating infections such as AIDS and malaria. These claims are unverified, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved sodium chlorite for medical use. Consumers should exercise caution and consult qualified professionals before using it for health purposes.
Always handle both chemicals with proper safety measures: wear gloves and eye protection, store in secure containers, and follow local regulations for hazardous substances.
