Government to mandate folic acid in flour to protect babies

None

"Rare Disorders NZ supported the Ministry for Primary Industries proposal in 2019 and is pleased to see this recommendation finally being followed to protect babies," says RDNZ CE Lisa Foster. 

The policy, to be introduced over two years, would ensure all non-organic wheat flour for making bread is fortified in a move the Government says could prevent between 162 and 240 neural tube defects – birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord such as spina bifida – over 30 years.

New Zealand’s rate of neural tube defects was high compared to other countries who have a mandatory fortification approach, such as Australia, Canada, and the United States.

None

Government to mandate folic acid in most bread-making flour to protect babies (article)