Frequently Asked Questions

Salty Insights & Oceanic Answers

Feb 25, 2024

General Questions

1. What is Tidal Salt and what makes it unique?

Tidal Salt is a small-scale, artisanal sea salt company based in Antigonish, Nova Scotia. We specialize in hand-harvesting pure sea salt from the pristine waters of the North Atlantic, specifically St George’s Bay in the Northumberland Strait. Our unique process, which combines traditional techniques with sustainable practices, ensures that each crystal of Tidal Salt carries the distinct taste of the ocean with minimal environmental impact.

2. Where is Tidal Salt located and where do you harvest your salt?

Our home base is in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, and we harvest our salt water directly from the nearby Atlantic Ocean. The specific harvesting spots are chosen for their clean water and ideal mineral content, contributing to the unique flavor and quality of our salt. Time is also important (and where the word ‘Tidal’ comes in), we harvest just before high tide, ensuring that we are capturing the saltiest and cleanest water possible!

3. How is Tidal Salt harvested and processed?

We use a combination of traditional and modern methods to harvest our salt. The process begins with collecting seawater during high tides. The water is then filtered and boiled, evaporating off the water and allowing the salt to crystallize. Finally, the salt is hand-harvested, dried, and packaged with care to ensure it retains its natural flavors and nutrients.

Product Questions

4. Fleur de Sel?

Fleur de sel, often referred to as the "flower of salt," is a rare and delicate form of sea salt that is harvested by hand from the very top layer of salt brine. What makes fleur de sel particularly special is its fine, light texture and high mineral content, which contribute to its complex flavor profile. This artisanal method of collection, along with its unique crystal structure, results in a salt that dissolves quickly and evenly, adding a subtle yet distinctive flavor enhancement to dishes. Renowned for its quality and taste, fleur de sel is often used as a finishing salt, sprinkled over dishes just before serving to add a touch of elegance and depth of flavor.

5. What types of salt does Tidal Salt offer?

Tidal Salt offers a variety of fleur de sel and infused fleur de sels, including our classic Tidal Salt Fleur de Sel, Smoked Fleur de Sel, and a range of flavored fleur de sel products that are infused with singular ingredients with a focus on local such as Just Us! Coffee and Hutchinson’s Maple Sugar. Each product is designed to enhance your culinary experience with its unique flavor profile.

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6. Are there any additives in Tidal Salt products?

Never. Our salt is 100% natural and free from additives. We believe in keeping our products pure and simple, just as nature intended.

7. How can I use Tidal Salt in my cooking?

Tidal Salt is incredibly versatile and can be used in a myriad of ways. Use it as a finishing salt to elevate the flavors of your dishes, incorporate it into your baking for a subtle oceanic twist, or experiment with our flavored salts to add a new dimension to your favorite recipes.

8. Do you offer any flavored salts or salt blends?

Yes, we offer a range of flavored fleur de sels that are perfect for adding an extra layer of flavour to your dishes. Our selection includes salts infused with herbs, spices, and even smoked varieties to suit all your culinary needs. We always try and use local products when possible.

Purchase and Shipping

9. How can I purchase Tidal Salt products?

You can purchase our products directly from our website and through a selection of retail partners. For the most current list of where to find our products, please visit our website.

10. Do you ship internationally?

Currently, we offer shipping across Canada and the United States as well as Ireland and South Korea. We're working on expanding our shipping capabilities to include international destinations in the near future.

11. What are the shipping costs and delivery times?

Shipping costs vary based on the size of your order and your location and delivery times depend on your proximity to Nova Scotia. Each batch of our salt does take some time and is dependent on weather. For more detailed information, please check our shipping policy on our website.

12. How can I track my order?

We use Canada Post and USPS for our shipping. Once your order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number via email. You can use this number to track your package's journey to your doorstep on the carrier's website.

Returns and Refunds

13. What is your return policy?

We stand behind the quality of our products. If you're not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us within 14 days of receiving your order to discuss a return or exchange.

14. How do I request a refund or exchange?

Please email us with your order number and the reason for your return or exchange. We will provide you with instructions on how to proceed. Note that returned items must be in their original condition.

15. How does Tidal Salt contribute to sustainability?

Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. From our harvesting methods to our packaging, we're committed to minimizing our environmental footprint. We use glass, reusable packaging and practice responsible harvesting to ensure the health and longevity of our coastal ecosystems.

16. Is Tidal Salt involved in any community projects?

Yes, we believe in giving back to our community. We occasionally release special label salts with proceeds going to various organizations close to our hearts. Recent initiatives saw donations going to the Canadian Red Cross, and the Nova Scotia SPCA. You may also notice that from time to time we release t-shirt designs to benefit special causes because why not? We're always looking for new ways to contribute positively to our community.

Health and Dietary Concerns

17. Is sea salt healthier than regular table salt?

Sea salt as well as fleur de sel is known for its minimal processing and natural trace minerals, which can offer a different nutritional profile compared to heavily processed table salt. However, it's important to use any salt in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

18. Are Tidal Salt products suitable for people with dietary restrictions (e.g., gluten-free, vegan)?

Yes, our salts are naturally gluten-free and vegan, making them suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. We ensure that our flavored salts also adhere to these dietary standards.

Partnerships and Wholesale

19. How can I become a retail partner or stock Tidal Salt in my store?

We love partnering with like-minded businesses! Please contact us via our website with your store details and any questions you have about our wholesale pricing and terms.