Flour to be fortified with folic acid
The British Nutrition Foundation welcomes the news that flour is to be fortified with folic acid from 2026.
We know from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey that 89% of women of childbearing age have a red blood cell folate level that may increase risk of neural tube defects. While folic acid supplements are recommended pre-conception and for the first 12 weeks of pregnancy a study of nearly half a million women in England showed that only 31% had taken folic acid prior to pregnancy.
The measures can help to reduce the number of pregnancies affected by neural tube defects. Folic acid is an essential nutrient that is also involved in making red blood cells and supporting the immune system.
Whilst the policy is an important step forward in supporting maternal health, the level of fortification and scope of products fortified (white flour only, as opposed to wholemeal flour and other grains) would only be expected to prevent around 20% of the current annual cases of NTD. As such, continuing to promote a folate rich diet and greater uptake of folic acid supplements for women who could become pregnant remains a priority in the UK.
The early period of pregnancy is a key window of development where good nutrition can make a difference to children’s health. But with many pregnancies being unplanned, measures to improve the health of women of childbearing age are of vital importance support the health of young children.
About the British Nutrition Foundation
Connecting people, food and science for better nutrition and healthier lives
The British Nutrition Foundation is a registered charity that provides impartial, evidence-based information about food and nutrition. We translate nutrition science in engaging and actionable ways, working extensively with people in academia, health care, education, communications and the food system, for public benefit.
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Funding for the British Nutrition Foundation is from membership subscriptions; donations; project grants from food producers and manufacturers, retailers and food service companies; conferences; publications, training, trusts, and foundations. The British Nutrition Foundation is not a lobbying organisation, nor does it endorse any products or engage in food advertising campaigns.
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Article by British Nutrition Foundation