New California law requires tortillas to contain folic acid

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. (NBC, KYMA) - Tortillas sold in California will soon contain a new ingredient.

Nora Garcia says tortillas are an important part of most meals for her and her family. That's why she was happy to learn that the family favorite will soon contain a beneficial new ingredient.

Starting January 1, tortillas sold in California must contain folic acid. a vitamin research shows can reduce birth defects by 70%.

"All Latinos eat tortillas, so it's important that tortillas have vitamins," Garcia expressed.

"This is our staple of our culture. I feel like this is who we are," said Anna Camacho, who owns a tortilla business in Redwood City.

While small businesses like hers will be exempt from the requirement, she says she think it's a great idea for mass producers.

"If it helps with the birth defects,and mainly Latinas, definitely...that's a big plus for us," Camacho remarked.

According to the legislation, Latino communities face a much higher risk of severe birth defects in early pregnancy, and adding folic acid to corn masa, a staple item in Latin American cuisine, could lower that risk.

"Nothing is more important than our families which having our children be born healthy and strong," Camacho declared.

The addition of folic acid in tortillas is going over well with the Garcias, saying it's another reason to eat up.

"More tortillas. I'm ready for more tortillas," Garcia spoke.