What it does
The terms are related but not identical. Dietary Folate Equivalents account for differences in absorption between naturally occurring food folate and folic acid consumed with food.
Food sources and absorption
Leafy vegetables, beans, peas, oranges, and fortified grain products can contribute. Fortification has an important public-health role in reducing neural tube defects.
Safety and individual context
People who could become pregnant are commonly advised to obtain folic acid in addition to food folate; exact recommendations vary by country and individual risk. High supplemental intake can mask some signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, so use established guidance rather than megadoses.
Primary reference
NIH Office of Dietary Supplements consumer fact sheet
How to use this information
Reference values describe population needs and are not a diagnosis. Food patterns, health conditions, pregnancy, laboratory results, and medications can change what is appropriate. Avoid high-dose supplementation unless there is a clear reason and qualified guidance.