Folic Acid

Mr. Stewart Jackson
To ask the Secretary of State for Health what factors she will take into account in making a decision on recommendations made by the Board of the Food Standards Agency on folic acid fortification; and if she will make a statement.

Caroline Flint
This is an important issue which will need very careful consideration. The decision will need to take account of the potential benefits and risks to different population groups, the impact on consumer choice and the practical implications for the industry. The independent Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition, which advises both health departments and the Food Standards Agency (FSA), has already published advice and the FSA is expected to provide advice following its board meeting on 17 May.