The white grains of salt of life

Salt production in Bac Lieu is not only a means of livelihood but also a source of pride, a beautiful cultural tradition passed down through centuries.

Salt production in Bac Lieu is not only a livelihood but also a source of pride, a cultural beauty passed down through centuries. Stretching across vast, shimmering white salt fields under the sunlight, salt production here contributes to the unique identity of the Southwestern region of Vietnam, a place steeped in human warmth and the flavors of the homeland.

Bac Lieu salt has a unique character, like a mark of the southern sea and sky. Smooth, white, and firm, the salt grains embrace a gentle salty taste that lingers on the tongue, then gradually dissolves into a slightly sweet aftertaste—not bitter or harsh, but warm and comforting, just like the people of this region—simple, gentle, and warm-hearted, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who visits and a lasting memory for those who leave.

On sunny days, the salt fields resemble a magnificent painting, reflecting the colors of the sky in each tiny crystal. But when the rain comes unexpectedly, all the hard work goes down the drain, and the salt fields turn into muddy swamps. Despite these difficulties, the salt farmers have never given up. Visiting the Dien Hai salt fields (Dong Hai district) – the largest salt-producing area in Bac Lieu province – one can clearly feel the deep attachment of the salt farmers to their profession. In recent years, the people have adopted the method of laying plastic sheeting on the crystallization fields, helping to increase salt production, making the salt crystals whiter, more beautiful, and fetching a higher price.

Bac Lieu salt is displayed at Hung Vuong Square, where many activities of the Festival take place. Photo: M.D.

The stories of salt production are not just about numbers, but also about the dedication of the people who work in the salt fields. Mr. Nguyen Van Hung (Dien Hai commune) shared: “I have followed my ancestors' profession since I was a child. I am 65 years old this year, and although it is hard work, I have never thought of giving up. This salt is the lifeblood of many generations, and it is our pride.” Hearing Mr. Hung's words broke my heart!

Looking at the salt fields glistening in the sun, my heart was filled with emotion. Each grain of salt tells a story of patience, of faith in simple yet meaningful things. The sweat rolling down the faces of the salt farmers in the scorching fields, their calloused hands firmly gripping the salt rakes – all are testaments to their perseverance and deep-seated commitment to the profession. However, in the face of modern societal development, salt production also faces many challenges: fluctuating prices, the impact of climate change, and competition from imported salt. To preserve and develop salt production, support from the government and the community is needed to enhance product value and build a stronger brand in the market. Developing cooperative models and combining them with experiential tourism is also a viable direction to help salt production develop more sustainably.

Bac Lieu is not only the land of poignant folk songs and tales of elegant gentlemen, but also the land of salt, an indispensable seasoning in Vietnamese meals. The tiny grain of salt carries within it a great story about people and the sea. Modern life has brought many changes, but the salt fields of Bac Lieu still retain their pristine beauty, intimately connected to the sky, land, water, and the strength of its people.

As the sun sets, the salt-laden loads are carried home. The tiny grains of salt carry so much emotion and so many memories, a treasure that cannot be measured, only felt with the heart. "As long as the East Sea remains dry / As long as Bac Lieu has salt, I will not fear poverty," this folk song is not only an affirmation but also a message to future generations.

Salt-making in Bac Lieu has become a cultural heritage of the nation. Preserving and cherishing salt is essential because it represents the sweetness of life, the sweetness of the land, and the love of its people.

Cao Minh Teo

Source: https://baocamau.vn/nhung-hat-muoi-trang-cua-doi-a41289.html