Food matrix structure (from biscuit to custard) impacts on folate bioavailability in healthy volunteers

Introduction Because folate deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of development of neural tube defect, depression… folate fortification is recommended for populations at risk (pregnant, frail population), including supplementation within food-matrix. However, this hydrosoluble vitamin is known to interact with food matrix components. This could ultimately impact on bioavailability of folates in plasma. Objective The aim of the present work is to measure folate plasma levels of volunteers following ingestion of different matrices (Custard, pudding, sponge cake and biscuit) similar in terms of macronutrients and overall folate content but different in texture and potentially digestibility rate. Methodology Twelve healthy young volunteers were offered the matrices according to a randomized, controlled cross over design. Plasma folate concentrations were determined before and up to 8 hours post matrix ingestion. Results for folate overall bioavailability (corrected for ingested folate) correspond to area under the curve (AUC) and expressed in arbitrary units (UA). Main findings Folate bioavailability over the entire post prandial period was significantly (P