EFSA Issues Positive Opinion on Folic Acid

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has released a favorable opinion on folate food supplements for reducing risks of fetal neural tube defects. EFSA’s ruling endorsed the role of 400 mcg of supplementary folic acid in reducing the risk of spina bifida and hydrocephalus. The application for the health claim was jointly compiled by charity SHINE, the U.K. Department of Health and the industry associations Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN), Health Food Manufacturers’ Association (HFMA) and the Proprietary Association of Great Britain (PAGB).

The favorable EFSA opinion must now be confirmed by the European Commission before it is fully permitted for use in the EU.