Folic Acid Butter

Folic acid is a synthetic form of the B vitamin folate (vitamin B9). Folate is naturally found in many foods, but folic acid is typically manufactured for use in supplements and fortified foods. It is a yellow to orange-yellow crystalline powder.

Folic acid is added to foods to increase their folate content, helping people meet their daily folate needs. It is commonly found in enriched grain products like bread, pasta, and cereals, as well as in some baked goods and other processed foods. This fortification is a public health strategy to prevent neural tube defects in infants.

In the US, folic acid is Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a nutrient supplement in food. It plays a crucial role in cell growth and DNA formation. The FDA requires folic acid to be added to certain grain products to help reduce the incidence of neural tube defects. JECFA and EFSA have evaluated folic acid and established acceptable daily intakes. Evidence does not suggest adverse effects from typical dietary intake.