EFSA NDA Panel (EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies), 2013. Scientific Opinion on the substantiation of a health claim related to increasing maternal folate status by supplemental folate intake and reduced risk of neural tube defects pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006

Following an application from Rank Nutrition Ltd, submitted for authorisation of a health claim pursuant to Article 14 of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of the United Kingdom, the EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to increasing maternal folate status by supplemental folate intake and reduced risk of neural tube defects. The Panel considers that the food constituent, supplemental folate, which is the subject of the claim, is sufficiently characterised. Increasing maternal folate status by supplemental folate intake is a beneficial physiological effect in the context of reducing the risk of neural tube defects. In weighing the evidence, the Panel took into account that the association between low maternal folate intakes and an increased risk of neural tube defects is well established, and that a recent systematic review showed an effect of maternal folic acid intakes on the risk of neural tube defects. The Panel concludes that a cause and effect relationship has been established between increasing maternal folate status by supplemental folate intake and a reduced risk of neural tube defects

Maternal nutrition: building foundations of long term good health

We know that improving maternal and infant nutrition prior to conception and up to 2 years is the most fundamental and impactful way to positively affect the long-term health of the population in both the developing and developed world. Evidence demonstrates that suboptimal maternal nutrition impairs fetal growth and development and can lead to cognitive impairment and an increased risk of non-communicable disease in adult life. Improving maternal diet and nutritional status will be a significant and cost-effective step in tackling both malnutrition and chronic disease globally. However, this long-term goal cannot be achieved without general recognition and meaningful commitment on both a national and international level to implement long-term strategies to support all women of childbearing age to make healthy diet and lifestyle choices before, during and after pregnancy