28/07/2026
Blog July 2026
This is not my usual blog. Instead, I felt it was important to share this open letter to my local MP regarding the new mandatory fortification of flour, which is due to come into effect in December 2026.
As those of you who read my May blog will know, I lost my sister to a comorbidity of health conditions. Since then, I have been outspoken about the food industry, what goes into our food, and the impact it can have on our health.
This letter is not about debating the rights and wrongs of this particular mandate. Rather, it is about my concern that there has been so little public health awareness—not only of the potential benefits, but also of the contraindications and the people who may be adversely affected.
For the attention of the Member of Parliament representing Somerset
I am writing to enquire whether you have informed, or are considering informing, your constituents about the Government's mandatory fortification of all non-wholemeal white and brown flour with folic acid, which is due to come into effect from December 2026.
My concern is not with the intention behind the policy, but with the apparent lack of public awareness surrounding this significant change. While the NHS provides guidance on circumstances in which folic acid supplementation may not be appropriate, many people remain unaware that the synthetic form of vitamin B9 will soon become a standard ingredient in most non-wholemeal flour, including organic. I therefore believe it would be beneficial for the health and wellbeing of your constituents to be informed before the nationwide rollout.
For clarity, folate and folic acid are both forms of vitamin B9, but they are not identical.
Folate is the naturally occurring form of vitamin B9 found in foods such as leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, eggs and whole grains. It is absorbed and metabolised naturally within the small intestine.
Folic acid, by contrast, is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 used in supplements and food fortification. It requires conversion within the liver before it can be used.
Both forms play an essential role in maintaining healthy red blood cells, supporting tissue growth and repair, aiding DNA formation and contributing to normal protein metabolism.
The Government's decision to fortify flour is based on evidence that increasing folic acid intake could prevent around 200 neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, each year. As a mother, I recognise the importance of reducing preventable birth defects and appreciate the public health benefits that have informed this decision.
However, I also believe it is important that the wider public is made aware that folic acid supplementation is not suitable for everyone and that there are recognised circumstances where medical advice should be sought. NHS guidance advises that folic acid may not be appropriate for some individuals, including those with vitamin B12 deficiency or pernicious anaemia, people with certain cancers, those with a coronary stent, or individuals who have previously experienced an allergic reaction to folic acid. It also notes that folic acid can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, potentially delaying diagnosis.
As with many public health interventions, ongoing research continues into both the benefits and any potential risks associated with long-term exposure to fortified foods. Regardless of differing views on the policy itself, I believe people should be aware of changes that affect the food they purchase and consume every day so they can make informed choices and seek medical advice where appropriate.
This issue is particularly important to me on a personal level. I lost my sister following complications related to cancer and obesity. Her passing strengthened my belief that nutrition and public awareness play a vital role in health outcomes. While I am not writing to debate the ethics of the policy or the research behind it, I do believe transparency and informed public discussion are essential.
As a Health and Wellbeing Coach, I encourage people to care for both their physical and mental wellbeing. Whether supporting someone with stress management, confidence or lifestyle changes, informed nutrition forms an important part of overall health. This is why I feel the forthcoming flour fortification deserves greater public awareness.
I would therefore be grateful if you would consider joining me and raising awareness of this policy amongst your constituents, whether through your newsletter, social media channels or other local communications. Providing balanced information from trusted sources, including NHS guidance, would help ensure that people understand both the intended public health benefits and when they should seek medical advice.
Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Yours sincerely,
Jacqui Simmonds MSc
www.thereset-coach.com
NHS guidelines for your information
Taken from the NHS website – copy and pasted to check out yourself follow https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/folic-acid/
Who can and cannot take folic acid
Most adults and children over 12 months can take folic acid on its own.
Multivitamins containing other vitamins combined with folic acid are not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
Folic acid is not suitable for everyone. For example, it may not be suitable if:
you've had an allergic reaction to folic acid or another ingredient used in the medicine in the past
you have vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia or pernicious anaemia (a condition where your immune system attacks your body's healthy cells)
you have a coronary stent (a small metal mesh tube inserted into the artery that leads to your heart)
you have cancer
Before taking folic acid, tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions.
