The Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition (SACN) have released a new report updating their recommendations on folic acid. These recommendations build on those issued previously in 2009.

The key findings from the report include:

• SACN continue to recommend that all women of childbearing age take a daily supplement of folic acid (400ug/day) prior to conception and until the 12th week of pregnancy
• SACN continue to recommend mandatory folic acid fortification
• Mandatory fortification should be accompanied by restrictions on voluntary fortification, clear guidance on the use of folic acid supplements and measurement of folic acid intakes and blood folate concentrations in the population  

For more information on folic acid take a look at our folic acid campaign.