Folate
Folate/folic acid is an essential B-vitamin and FDA mandates folic acid fortification of enriched cereal grains in the U.S. The NIH ODS sets a Tolerable Upper Intake Level of 1,000 µg/day from synthetic sources for adults to avoid masking B12 deficiency.
What it is
A B-vitamin (vitamin B9) occurring naturally in foods (folate) and added as folic acid in fortification.
Nutrient added to enriched grains, cereals, and supplements; supports DNA synthesis and prevents neural tube defects.
Why it's flagged
- very high intakes can mask vitamin B12 deficiency
What regulators actually say
"The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine established a UL of 1,000 mcg/day for folic acid for adults from fortified foods or dietary supplements."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Folic acid fortification mandated for enriched cereal grains (21 CFR 137); GRAS as a vitamin.
European Union — EFSA
Authorized as vitamin source under Regulation (EC) No 1925/2006.
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