What must be fortified with folic acid?

Cornmeal must be fortified with folic acid primarily to help prevent neural tube defects in developing embryos. Folic acid, a synthetic form of folate (a B vitamin), plays a crucial role in DNA synthesis and repair, and is especially important during periods of rapid growth, such as pregnancy. In many countries, fortifying cornmeal along with other grain products with folic acid has been a public health strategy aimed at reducing the incidence of these birth defects.

The fortification of cornmeal is part of broader guidelines that encourage the addition of essential nutrients to certain staple foods in order to improve the overall nutrient intake of the population, particularly among women of childbearing age who may not get enough folate from their diet alone. By doing so, it enhances the nutritional profile of commonly consumed foods and helps ensure that a significant portion of the population receives enough folic acid.

The other options, while they may have their own nutritional benefits or fortification programs, do not typically require mandatory fortification with folic acid. For instance, skim milk is often fortified with vitamin D and calcium; orange juice may be fortified with calcium or vitamin D as well; and canned vegetables are generally not subject to any mandatory fortification requirements.