Vitamin B9 (Folate)

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.

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

FDA U.S. Food And Drug Administration

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.

EFSA European Food Safety Authority

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.

JECFA Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives

Safe for intended uses.

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

Health Canada

Safe for intended uses.

This page was last updated on 6/30/2025