Why Rock Salt Is Still Used—Despite the Risks to Pets, Concrete, and the Environment

When it comes to winter safety, many products marketed as “pet safe” still contain sodium chloride, commonly known as rock salt. But despite the familiar name and widespread use, rock salt is one of the harshest deicing substances you can use—especially around pets, concrete surfaces, and plant life. So why is it still found in so many products? The answer comes down to cost, performance limitations, and a lack of consumer awareness.