What happens to the salt when fries are salted immediately out of the fryer?

When fries are salted immediately after coming out of the fryer, the salt does not melt in the way that ice does when exposed to heat; however, it can be somewhat influenced by the heat and moisture present on the freshly cooked fries. The heat causes the moisture on the fries to create a slight brine, which can dissolve some of the salt. This process allows for a more even distribution of flavor, as the dissolved salt can penetrate the surface of the fries more effectively than if it were just sprinkled on top of dry fries.

While the answer suggests that the salt melts, it may be more accurate to say that the salt slightly dissolves or becomes moistened by the water vapor from the hot fries. The immediate application of salt also enhances the flavor profile, as the warmth of the fries helps to activate the salt's taste. Thus, salting right out of the fryer can lead to a more flavorful outcome while also impacting the texture and appearance of the salt on the fries.