Folacin in selected foods.

Abstract

Representative values for folacin in 299 foods have been developed, based on an extensive literature review. A provisional table of these folacin values has been prepared for foods in 100-gm. portions and for specified weights, representing common household units. The data reflect newer methodology than that used for a prior USDA publication, namely, protection of folacin by ascorbic acid. L. casei is the preferred assay organism. The table includes values for both free and total folacin; however, the authors recommend that, in calculating routine hospital diets, total rather than free folacin be used; this would allow easy and direct comparison with the Recommended Dietary Allowances.