Folic Acd

Folic acid is a synthetic form of the B vitamin folate. Folate is naturally found in many foods and is essential for cell growth and DNA production. Folic acid is often added to foods to increase their folate content.

Manufacturers add folic acid to foods as a nutrient to help increase folate intake in the population. It is commonly found in enriched grain products such as bread, pasta, rice, and breakfast cereals, as well as in some baked goods.

In the U.S., folic acid is permitted in food as a nutrient supplement. The FDA requires that folic acid be added to certain grain products to help reduce the risk of neural tube defects. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated folic acid. Evidence suggests that adequate folate intake is important for health, and folic acid is well-absorbed.