Summary:
From December 2026, the UK Government plans to legally require synthetic folic acid to be added to all non-wholemeal flour — meaning most bread, pasta, and pizza in the UK will contain it. Consumers will have no option to buy folic-acid-free alternatives.

We believe this decision undermines informed choice and public consent. Natural folate and synthetic folic acid are not the same. Studies suggest synthetic folic acid can build up unmetabolised in the body, with potential health implications that are not yet fully understood.

We call on the UK Government to:

Suspend the rollout of mandatory folic acid fortification until independent long-term safety reviews are published and debated publicly.
Offer consumer choice — ensure unfortified flour and bread remain available for those who prefer natural food options.
Invest in education, not enforcement — empower people to make their own decisions based on evidence, health status, and need.
Public health should be based on transparency and trust, not mass fortification without choice.
Everyone deserves the right to know what they’re consuming — and to choose natural, ethical food that aligns with their health and beliefs.