Vitamin B9 is a water-soluble B vitamin known as folate that is naturally present in some foods and added to others. Vitamin B9 (folate) helps with DNA synthesis and supports cell growth, especially important during pregnancy.

Vitamin B9 (Folate)

Found In

  • Beans and peas (e.g., kidney beans and black-eyed peas)
  • Beef liver
  • Beverages
  • Breads
  • Fortified cereals
  • Fruits and fruit juices (e.g., oranges and orange juice)
  • Meal replacements
  • Nuts (e.g., walnuts)
  • Vegetables (e.g., asparagus, brussels sprouts, and dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach and mustard greens)

Also Known As

  • Calcium-L-methylfolate
  • Folacin
  • Folate
  • Folic Acid
  • Pteroylmonoglutamic acid

The Beverage Bottom Line

Vitamin B9 (folate) is authorized for use in the U.S., Europe and Canada.

 

This ingredient may have authorizations in countries not included on this site.

International Assessments and Authorizations

U.S. Food And Drug Administration (FDA)

Safe for intended uses. (FDA Approved)

In 2006, dietary reference intakes for vitamin B9 were reviewed by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

In 1996, FDA evaluated health claims related to folate and neural tube defects.

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European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)

Safe for intended uses. Authorized for use in the EU (nutrient).

 

In 2023, EFSA issued an opinion on the tolerable upper intake level for folate.

In 2020, EFSA evaluated health claims related to folate.

In 2014, EFSA issued an opinion on dietary reference values for folate.

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Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA)

Safe for intended uses.

 

Essential nutrients may be appropriately added to foods for various purposes.

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Health Canada

Safe for intended uses.

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This page was last updated on 6/30/2025.