Role of folates in health promotion including fortified foods

Irena Nadolna, Hanna Kunachowicz, Agata Troszczyńska

Summary
Aim. The objective of the study was to present the significance of products fortified with folic acid as a source of folates in diet, based on data on folate intake and role of folates in health maintenance and protection against various diseases.
Material and method. Folate intake in diets of households surveyed in 1999-2001 by the Central Statistical Office ranged from 162 to 168 mg/person/day, with the lowest value recorded in 2001. The coverage of the mean weighted recommended dietary allowance (RDA) at a safe level was about 72%. Folate intake in the population of the surveyed households depended significantly on the income level. In 2001, in households with the lowest and highest income the coverage of RDA was 58% and 84% respectively.
Results. The assessment of fortified products present on the Polish market showed that food manufacturers fortify various products: cereals, juices and fruit beverages, dairy and confectionery products.
Conclusion. Folate intake is insufficient in comparison to RDA, thus it is important to consume products rich in folates and to supplement the diet with products fortified with folic acid.

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