The Department of Health and the Food Standards Agency have launched a public consultation on the possible fortification of flour with folic acid as a way of reducing the incidence of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.
The consultation follows the publication earlier this year of a report by the Committee on Medical Aspects of Food and Nutrition Policy (COMA), which concluded that folic acid fortification of flour at 240mg per 100g would reduce the risk of defects in babies by 41 per cent without resulting in unnaceptably high folic acid intake for any population group.
A consultation document which sets out scientific evidence and raises isssues, such as technical feasibility, legislation and consumer choice, is available on the internet at www.doh.gov.uk/folicacid.
It seeks views on whether folic acid fortification should happen, whether it should be compulsory or voluntary, what levels of folic acid should be used, and related questions.
The consultation lasts until October 31. A decision on whether to go ahead is expected early next year. Further consultation on any Regulations to be made under the Food Safety Act 1990 would take place if a decision to go ahead is made.
Although public health is a devolved issue for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the consultation is being undertaken on a UK-wide basis.