Folate and Folic Acid: What Those Two Names Mean on Food Labels
Health & Nutrition
Folate is a B vitamin found naturally in foods such as leafy greens, beans, asparagus and oranges. Folic acid is one form used in fortified foods and many supplements.
To see whether a bread or cereal contains added folic acid, read the label. Fortification varies by product and country. You can also get naturally occurring folate from meals that include beans and greens.
If you’re planning a pregnancy or taking supplements, ask your clinician which guidance applies. The NIH fact sheet explains how requirements and recommendations differ by situation.
