Health Highlights: April 15, 2016

Here are some of the latest health and medical news developments, compiled by the editors of HealthDay:

FDA Approves Folic Acid Fortification of Corn Masa Flour

Folic acid fortification for corn masa flour has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Manufacturers will be allowed to add up to 0.7 milligrams of folic acid per pound of corn masa flour, consistent with other enriched cereal grains.

When taken by pregnant women, folic acid may help prevent birth defects of the brain, spine and spinal cord, the FDA said.

Corn masa flour is widely used by Latin Americans and is used to make foods such as tortillas, tortilla and corn chips, taco shells, and tamales.