Folic Acid Water Cooked Eggs

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that occurs naturally in some foods. It is manufactured through chemical processes and is often added to foods to increase their folate content. Folate is essential for cell growth and DNA formation.

Folic acid is added to foods as a nutrient to help prevent neural tube defects in developing fetuses. It is commonly found in enriched grain products like bread, pasta, and cereals, as well as in some breakfast foods.

The FDA considers folic acid a safe and effective way to increase folate intake. Adequate folate intake is important for cell division and DNA synthesis. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated folic acid and established guidelines for its use. While generally recognized as safe, very high intakes of folic acid from supplements can mask a vitamin B12 deficiency, a condition that can cause irreversible nerve damage if left untreated.