Voluntary folic acid fortification the right approach say Bakers

The Government’s decision to support the baking industry’s voluntary programme to fortify a range of breads with folic acid is the right approach for New Zealand, says Annette Campbell, the New Zealand Association of Bakers spokesperson.

“We welcome the announcement today by the Hon. Kate Wilkinson, the Minister for Food Safety, that the Government has decided not to mandate folic acid fortification of all bread.

“Our members heeded the suggestions of Prime Minister John Key to step up and implement a voluntary regime, and we have done that successfully,  to the extent that about 34 lines of packaged breads are now fortified and available to consumers.

“During the past two years we have also been active and constructive participants on the Ministry for Primary Industries’ Folic Acid Working Group.

“The Association of Bakers commends the Ministry for leading this work and a process which has been fair, constructive and professional.

“It has led to a practical outcome which we believe is best for New Zealand.

“Given now the way forward is clarified, we look forward to continuing our work with the Ministry towards increasing the amount of fortified breads available and providing all consumers with real choices in the bread category.”