California becomes the first state to require folic acid fortification in corn masa flour, aiming to reduce neural tube defects that disproportionately affect Hispanic infants.

The California action is expected to drive broader adoption nationwide, supported by data on defect reductions and cost-effectiveness.

Andrea Lopez, who lost her son to anencephaly, advocates for fortification to spare others similar heartbreak.

Public health experts endorse fortification as safe, effective, and cost-efficient, noting it could prevent about 1,300 birth defect cases annually and address disparities.

Industry progress includes Gruma (Maseca) and Mission Foods fortifying corn masa products; by 2026, most Gruma U.S. retail sales include folic acid and Mission Foods fortification extends to all branded products.

The policy targets corn masa products used in tortillas and other traditional foods, with Alabama set to follow California in June and other states weighing action.

Alabama plans to implement a similar fortification law in June, with Florida, Georgia, Oklahoma and Oregon considering expansion and several other states showing interest.

The policy took effect in January in California’s context, with Alabama timing set for June and multiple states exploring adoption.

California’s move could accelerate nationwide adoption and spur ongoing fortification progress across the U.S., aided by advocacy groups and industry shifts.

Neural tube defects form early in pregnancy, often before women know they are pregnant, making universal fortification a practical prevention strategy.

Wheat-based foods have had nationwide folic acid fortification since 1998, cutting neural tube defects by about 30%; corn masa products had been excluded until now.

Advocates say fortification is feasible and cost-effective for public health; producers initially feared flavor and labeling costs but now expect broader market adoption.