Thiocyanates are chemical compounds that contain the thiocyanate ion, represented as SCN⁻. They are formed when sulfur, carbon, and nitrogen combine, and are commonly found in various salts. Thiocyanates can be produced naturally in the body and are also present in certain foods, such as cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. These compounds have various applications, including use in agriculture as pesticides and in the chemical industry for synthesizing other compounds. Additionally, thiocyanates play a role in human health, as they can affect thyroid function by inhibiting the uptake of iodine, which is essential for producing thyroid hormones.