folic acid

Taking folic acid while pregnant reduces the risk of birth defects. But there may not be enough of the vitamin in enriched grain products, a federal advisory panel says.

The FDA says tacos, tamales and other foods made with corn masa flour can now be fortified with folic acid. The move is aimed at reducing severe brain defects in babies born to Hispanic women.

In the U.S., pastas and breads come with a dose of folic acid, a B vitamin that prevents severe neural tube birth defects. But it's not allowed in corn masa, a staple for Hispanic women.