They've been doing this in the US since the 90's. Unfortunately half of the population likely have MTHFR genetic mutations and cannot process folic acid and large amounts of it can clog the areas that natural forms of folate would bind to, making the folate deficiency worse in those with severe mutations. In women this can lead to recurrent miscarriages as they need folate when conceiving and during early pregnancy (it is common to test for this mutation after multiple miscarriages in both the mother and father). Interestingly, 98% of children with autism have an MTHFR mutation, with rates significantly increasing since the 90's when flour was enriched with folic acid in the US (1998) and pregnant women were encouraged to take folic acid supplements while pregnant (1992). This isn't the only piece to the autism puzzle but it certainly shouldn't be ignored and anyone with this mutation should stay away from these foods and take alternative forms of folate if needed. Mass fortifying food without regard for the consequences is a mistake.
They've been doing this in the US since the 90's. Unfortunately half of the population likely have MTHFR genetic mutations and cannot process folic acid and large amounts of it can clog the areas that natural forms of folate would bind to, making the folate deficiency worse in those with severe mutations. In women this can lead to recurrent miscarriages as they need folate when conceiving and during early pregnancy (it is common to test for this mutation after multiple miscarriages in both the mother and father). Interestingly, 98% of children with autism have an MTHFR mutation, with rates significantly increasing since the 90's when flour was enriched with folic acid in the US (1998) and pregnant women were encouraged to take folic acid supplements while pregnant (1992). This isn't the only piece to the autism puzzle but it certainly shouldn't be ignored and anyone with this mutation should stay away from these foods and take alternative forms of folate if needed. Mass fortifying food without regard for the consequences is a mistake.