Northern Ireland will fortify flour with folic acid from 2026 to prevent birth defects.

Northern Ireland will start adding folic acid to non-wholemeal flour in 2026 to prevent about 200 cases of brain and spine defects in newborns annually, following a similar move by the UK government. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt confirmed the change, which aims to protect babies from conditions like spina bifida. This initiative, already adopted in over 80 countries, will fortify flour to enhance fetal health.

November 25, 2024
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