Fortification of Grain Productions with Folate: Should Britain Follow the American Example?

Abstract

The fortification of all grain products with folate is mandatory in the USA from 1^st January 1999. The decision has been prompted by research indicating that the risk of heart disease, cancer, stroke, nervous system disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, and neural tube defects may be reduced by daily intake of folate higher than is currently normal in the American population. There is a debate on the adequacy of the level of folate mandated and on the limiting of fortification to grain products. Furthermore, there have been representations to the limiting of fortification to grain products. Furthermore, there have been representations to the US Foood and Drug Administration to include B12 in the fortification rrequirement. Would British health also benefit from such fortification?

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