Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 5

Enriched flour is commonly fortified with folic acid, a synthetic form of the B-vitamin folate. Scientific evidence strongly supports the use of folic acid supplementation and fortification in the prevention of certain birth defects, particularly neural tube defects (NTDs) such as spina bifida and anencephaly. Numerous randomized controlled trials and large-scale population studies have demonstrated that adequate maternal intake of folic acid before conception and during early pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of these congenital anomalies.

Because natural dietary folate may not be consumed in sufficient amounts by all women of childbearing age, many countries mandate the enrichment of staple foods like flour with folic acid. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) both endorse this strategy based on robust evidence. In the United States, the mandatory fortification of enriched grain products with folic acid, introduced in 1998, led to a substantial decline in the incidence of NTDs. Reviews and meta-analyses have confirmed that such public health interventions are effective, safe, and cost-efficient.

Enriched flour, therefore, serves as a vehicle for folic acid delivery, supporting the prevention of birth defects at the population level. The scientific consensus on its role is very strong, with level 5 evidence indicating consistent efficacy across multiple high-quality studies.

More about Flour (unspecified,enriched)
More about Birth Defects (prevention)

Other ingredients used for Birth Defects (prevention)

choline
folate
iodine
omega-3 fatty acids
vitamin B
vitamin B12
vitamin D
zinc
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Folic Acid

Other health conditions supported by Flour (unspecified,enriched)

Anemia
Birth Defects (prevention)
Energy (lack of)

Products containing Flour (unspecified,enriched)

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.