CULTURAL NEGOTIATIONS OF KORAT’S ROCK SALT

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to study the cultural negotiation of rock salt in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This research article is a part of a comprehensive study on adaptation and storytelling through cultural creations, with a specific focus on the preservation of rock salt in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. This study employs a qualitative research approach and collects data from four different community areas. The data is collected using the method of selecting specific sample groups, known as 'Purposive Sampling.' The data collection methods include participant observation and in-depth interviews with salt producers, community leaders, teachers, and villagers, totaling 10 people.

The research uncovered several key findings:

1) In the past, salt production involved the ancient methods of boiling or cooking salt in many households. However, today, these traditions have waned. Few households still practice these methods, and teenagers show little interest in them. As a result, people now use less salt in their cooking.

2) Salt production typically takes place during the dry season, falling between February and April each year. However, if there is rain, it promptly terminates salt production for that year.

3) The traditional method of cooking salt requires a significant amount of wood and water. Due to natural factors affecting the availability of wood and water, the amount of rock salt produced has gradually decreased. The study also identified that: 1) The new generation is still not interested in continuing the rock salt culture due to the challenging, tiring, and hot process of cooking salt, which demands patience. 2) The salt production process consumes substantial resources, including water and wood. As forests become scarcer, logging negatively impacts the environment. Moreover, during the farming season, rainwater washes away the salt, spreading it throughout the rice fields and causing poor yields. 3) Government support and promotion to encourage more people to cook salt may significantly affect most farmers.

4) Rock salt obtained through traditional methods, although lacking iodine, boasts numerous benefits. However, the production process does not meet contemporary standards, making rock salt less popular.

5) Rock salt has played a pivotal role in shaping the culture and way of life from the past to the present. Preserving the practice of cooking rock salt according to local wisdom is essential for future generations.