Kemiex is an all-in-one market information, purchasing and sales platform for animal and human nutrition raw materials. In the following series of articles, we will explain the functions and uses of products that can be found in the Kemiex marketplace. On this occasion, we are going to explain the benefits of Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin:

What is Vitamin B12 used for?

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, is an essential B-complex vitamin that is required for a wide range of physiological processes in the human body. It plays a critical role in the production of red blood cells, the maintenance of proper nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Vitamin B12 is also involved in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a process that helps regulate levels of the amino acid and maintain healthy cardiovascular function. The body does not produce Vitamin B12 on its own, making it necessary to obtain it from dietary sources or supplements.

The different variations of Vitamin B12

There are two main forms of Vitamin B12 that are commonly used in dietary supplements and fortified foods: Hydroxocobalamin and Cyanocobalamin.

Hydroxocobalamin: Hydroxocobalamin is a natural form of Vitamin B12 that is found in animal-based foods, such as meat, dairy, and eggs. It is also used as a prescription drug in Europe for the treatment of Vitamin B12 deficiency.

Cyanocobalamin: Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of Vitamin B12 that is widely used in fortified foods and dietary supplements. It is less expensive and easier to produce than hydroxocobalamin, and is also more stable.

The difference between the two forms of Vitamin B12 is primarily in the way they are metabolized by the body. Hydroxocobalamin is converted to the active form of Vitamin B12 in the body, while cyanocobalamin must be converted before

What are the main benefits of Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, has several key benefits for overall health, including:

1. Supports red blood cell production and DNA synthesis:

Vitamin B12 plays a crucial role in the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to different parts of the body. It is involved in the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material that makes up our cells.

2. Maintains a healthy Nervous and Immune system:

Vitamin B12 is important for maintaining the health of the nervous system, including the myelin sheath that surrounds and protects nerves. It is also involved in the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infections and maintaining good immunity.

3. Contributes to Energy metabolism:

Vitamin B12 helps to convert food into energy, and is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.

4. Helps Mental Health:

Vitamin B12 has been linked to good mental health and may help to reduce the risk of depression and other mental health problems.

5. Supports Cardiovascular Health:

Vitamin B12 may help to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by reducing homocysteine levels, an amino acid that has been linked to cardiovascular disease.

Overall, Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that is important for maintaining good health, and adequate intake is necessary for preventing deficiency-related problems and supporting optimal health.

Which foods are the main sources of Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, or Cobalamin, can be found in a variety of foods, especially in animal-based products such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs, making it easy for an omnivore to get enough of this important nutrient through diet. Some of the best food sources of Vitamin B12 include:

• Meat and fish: Beef, lamb, pork, chicken, sardines, salmon, cod, and tuna are excellent sources of Vitamin B12.

• Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, and cheese are good sources of Vitamin B12.

• Eggs: Eggs are a good source of Vitamin B12.

Foods with Vitamin B12 for vegans:

It can be more difficult for vegans to obtain adequate amounts of Vitamin B12 compared to non-vegans, since this nutrient is mostly found in animal-based products such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy, and eggs. However, with careful planning and attention to nutrition, it is possible for vegans to meet their Vitamin B12 needs. By consuming fortified foods and/or taking Vitamin B12 supplements, vegans can ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient.

Additionally, it is important for vegans to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss their individual needs and any additional steps they may need to take to meet their Vitamin B12 requirements.

Here is a list of the best food sources of Vitamin B12 for vegans:

1. Fortified plant-based milks: Many plant-based milks, such as soy milk, almond milk, and oat milk, are fortified with Vitamin B12. This makes them a good option for vegans who want to ensure they are getting enough of this essential nutrient.

2. Fortified foods: Some breakfast cereals are fortified with Vitamin B12, making them an excellent option for vegans to incorporate into their diets. It’s important to check the label to see how much Vitamin B12 is present in the cereal and how it fits into a balanced diet.

3. Nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast is a deactivated yeast that is a popular ingredient in vegan cuisine, and it is often fortified with Vitamin B12. It can be sprinkled on top of dishes, added to soups and stews, or used to make sauces and spreads.

4. Fortified plant-based meat alternatives: Some plant-based meat alternatives, such as veggie burgers and veggie sausages, are fortified with Vitamin B12. This makes them a convenient option for vegans who want to get their Vitamin B12 without having to rely on fortified cereals or yeast.

5. Fortified energy bars: Some energy bars are fortified with Vitamin B12, making them a convenient option for vegans who are always on the go and looking for a quick and easy source of the nutrient. It’s always important to check the label to see how much Vitamin B12 is present in the bar and how it fits into a balanced diet.

Recommended daily intake (RDI) of Vitamin B12

The recommended daily intake (RDI) of Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, varies based on age and gender. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the following are the RDIs for Cobalamin:

• Men and women over 14 years: 2.4 mcg per day

• Pregnant women: 2.6 mcg per day

• Breastfeeding women: 2.8 mcg per day

Cobalamin deficiency is relatively rare but can have serious health consequences, including anemia, neuropathy (nerve damage), and cognitive decline. It is most commonly seen in elderly individuals and vegans, who may not get enough Vitamin B12 from their diet.

What are the main benefits of Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin for animals?

Vitamin B12, also known as Cobalamin, plays a crucial role in several physiological processes in animals. Some of the main benefits of Vitamin B12 for animals include:

1. Proper nerve function: Vitamin B12 helps to maintain healthy nerve cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system.

2. Formation of red blood cells: Vitamin B12 plays a role in the production of red blood cells, which are important for carrying oxygen to tissues and organs.

3. DNA synthesis: Vitamin B12 is necessary for the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material that controls all cellular activity.

4. Energy metabolism: Vitamin B12 is involved in the metabolism of energy and the production of ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

5. Mental health: Vitamin B12 may help to maintain cognitive function and prevent cognitive decline in ageing animals.

6. Fertility and Reproduction: Vitamin B12 is involved in the regulation of hormones and the production of sperm in male animals.

It is important to note that Vitamin B12 is required in very small amounts, but it is still an essential nutrient for animal health. A deficiency of Vitamin B12 can lead animals to a wide range of health problems, including anemia, nerve damage, and cognitive decline.

Where to buy bulk Vitamin B12 or Cobalamin and get market information?

In Kemiex, we offer a safe and private online environment to buy and sell raw materials for the Feed, Food, Vet, and Pharma industries. We also offer market information such as Price Trends, Trade Flows and Market News for all the micro-ingredients of the mentioned industries.