The legislation requires millers and flour producers in the UK to fortify non-wholemeal wheat flour with folic acid by the end of 2026. Food Standards Scotland says folic acid deficiency is a leading cause of neural tube defects in babies, including spina bifida.
Flour is already fortified with calcium, niacin, thiamine and iron to improve public health. The move to include folic acid could help to reduce neural tube defects by 20% in the UK and improve the health of pregnant women.
Ian McWatt, deputy chief executive of Food Standards Scotland (FSS), commented: “Fortifying flour with essential nutrients is a straightforward yet impactful way to help reduce neural tube defects.
“For decades, fortified flour has strengthened public health, and these new regulations aim to give children across the nation a healthier start. Over the next two years, manufacturers will have time to adjust both the composition and labelling of their products, ensuring a smooth transition."
All women who are trying for a baby should regularly take folic acid supplements for around three months before getting pregnant and for at least 12 weeks after becoming pregnant. The fortification of flour is intended to support, not replace, this advice.