Controversial law in New Zealand, Australia requires folic acid to be baked into bread to prevent birth defects

From 3 news in New Zealand:

The controversial law forcing bakers to add folic acid to bread is likely to be reversed as soon as the Government can find a way to undo it.

It is part of a food safety agreement with Australia that takes effect from September.

The last government signed up, accepting advice that it helps prevent birth defects.

However, National prefers the bakers' view, which is completely opposed.

lan Li is the head baker at Baker's Cottage where the bread has had the same recipe for a 100 years.

“Our bread is very natural, very simple ingredients salt, water, yeast and flour,” says Mr Li

But, in less than three months, they are going to have to throw in a new ingredient - and the bakers are not happy.

“There's a lot of concern for the baker. It really will affect the quality of the flour, change the texture,” he says.

The new rule is part of a move by the previous government to stop birth defects like Spina Bifida.

However, President of the Baker’s Association Laurie Powell says it is a scheme not well liked by the baker community.

“We don't believe a basic food product like bread should be used as a vehicle for mass medication of the population,” he says.

Now it seems the Government is not sold on the idea either.

The Food Safety Minister Kate Wilkinson is looking at reversing the decision - but is warning that could take time.

“We share their frustrations, and we want to work with them about the implementation. This is a standard that was put upon us by the last government,” she says.

Rules for bread fortification are set by a joint standards committee between New Zealand and Australia.

“I'm certainly looking at the options, which will include a review, again it has to go through that joint regime, it's quite a long process,” Ms Wilkinson says.

Kiwis have fairly low levels of folate in their diets - but bakers say a woman would have to eat at least 11 slices of bread, in order to get the daily required amount.

Folic acid will be added to bread from the end of September.