Quatrefolic®

Quatrefolic® is the glucosamine salt of (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), the biologically active form of folate. It is distinctly different from synthetic folic acid used in many fortified foods and dietary supplements. Active folate does not need to be converted through the body’s multi-step process before use. Structurally analogous to the reduced and active form of folic acid, Quatrefolic® can help product developers address the difference between standard folic acid and ready-to-use 5-MTHF—especially where the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) enzyme or genetic variation in the MTHFR gene may affect conversion.

Developed by Gnosis By Lesaffre, Quatrefolic® represents the fourth-generation folate compared to 5-methyltetrahydrofolate calcium salt, guaranteeing improved bioavailability. For nutraceutical and functional food & beverage brands formulating research-backed products, this article looks at Quatrefolic®’s chemical profile, health benefits, formulation advantages, ingredient pairings, and applications in skin-support and women’s health, where active folate remains relevant across life stages and for reducing folate-related health risks.