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Reducing Neural Tube Defects : Consultation Document Summary Analysis of Submissions

Outcome of consultation on reducing neural tube defects in New Zealand

In July 2004 the New Zealand Food Safety Authority (NZFSA) and the Ministry of Health undertook joint consultation on two policy options to increase folic acid intake among women of child bearing age to reduce the prevalence of neural tube defects in New Zealand :

Option 1: Continuation of the status quo – voluntary fortification
Option 2: Introduction of a new policy – mandatory fortification

The document below provides an overview of comments in submissions received on this public consultation. The NZFSA is currently working through the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) process for consideration of mandatory fortification with folic acid. FSANZ is consulting on proposal P295: Consideration of Mandatory Fortification with Folic Acid. It is expected the outcome of the NZFSA/Ministry of Health consultation will feed into FSANZ’s consultation process.