659. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Health if, in relation to the proposed compulsory addition of folic acid to non-wholemeal flour, she can assure those who may be required to avoid folic acid due to certain medical conditions or because they are undergoing certain medical treatments that unfortified flour and bread products will remain readily available. [67185/26]

Thank you for your correspondence.

My Department is currently considering policy options to increase folic acid intake in Ireland through the Folic Acid Policy Development Steering Group, which was established in 2024. The Steering Group is considering available evidence and policy options and has not yet made a recommendation.

The proposed mandatory fortification of non-wholemeal flour with folic acid is currently the subject of a public consultation being undertaken by the Department of Health. The public consultation commenced on 13 July 2026 and will remain open until 5 October 2026. The purpose of this consultation is to gather a wide range of perspectives from members of the public and relevant stakeholders to help inform the Government’s decision on future policy. The Department encourages of the public, healthcare professionals, industry stakeholders and other interested parties to submit their views. All submissions received during the consultation period will be carefully reviewed and considered before any decision is made.

I am aware that some individuals have raised concerns regarding the potential implications of increased folic acid exposure for people with certain medical conditions or those undergoing specific medical treatments. These issues form part of the broader considerations being examined as part of the consultation and policy development process.

No decision has yet been taken on whether to proceed with mandatory fortification. Should the Government decide to introduce mandatory fortification in Ireland, national legislation would be required. The nature and scope of any measure would be determined following completion of the consultation and the associated policy, scientific, legal and regulatory assessment. Any future policy position will be evidence-based and informed by the consultation findings, public health considerations and engagement with relevant stakeholders and expert bodies.

Any future legislative proposal would also be subject to regulatory and impact assessment processes, including consideration of consumer choice, product availability, labelling requirements and the practical implications for industry and consumers.

Thank you.

Kind regards.