Vitamins for vegans derived from algae are expected to be the most efficient solution for addressing a nutrient deficiency in plant-based diets, according to recent research conducted by Cambridge University scientists. The increasing popularity of meat- and dairy-free foods in Western diets has resulted in potential vitamin deficiency among many individuals. Specifically, a lack of vitamin B12, a key nutrient involved in the production of blood cells and nerve cells, may occur.
The scientists at Cambridge University have proposed an unconventional solution to this problem. Their studies have shown that various types of algae, which are primarily aquatic organisms lacking roots or stems, possess a remarkable capability to accumulate B12. This finding may soon be utilized by manufacturers to develop effective vitamin supplements.
Prof Alison Smith, head of the plant metabolism group at the university, stated, “Diets based solely on plant products have many advantages, but they also have certain deficiencies, and one of the most significant of these is the lack of vitamin B12.”
Although vitamin B12 supplements are already available, their effectiveness can vary. In addition, vegans and vegetarians, once aware of B12 deficiency, often prefer naturally sourced supplements. Smith explained, “Many vegans prefer not to consume chemical supplements and would like to obtain their B12 as a natural part of their diet. While plants cannot provide B12, we have discovered that certain algae are rich sources of the vitamin.”
Vitamin B12 is an essential micronutrient, the absence of which leads to muscle weakness, numbness, nausea, weight loss, fatigue, and increased heart rate. Prolonged deficiency can leave individuals vulnerable to ailments like pernicious anemia, heart disease, and diabetes. B12 is synthesized by bacteria found in the digestive systems of cows and sheep, making it unavailable directly from plants. Traditionally, meat, dairy products, and eggs have been the primary sources of B12.
However, adopting a vegetarian or vegan diet significantly reduces B12 intake, resulting in noticeable health consequences. The number of vegans in the UK has risen to over one million, almost 1.5% of the population. Plant-based food sales also increased by 49% since 2018 but have now plateaued.
Vegan diets only provide 10% of the B12 present in a typical UK diet. This equates to approximately 0.5 micrograms of B12 per day, which falls far below the recommended healthy dosage, as stated in a recent paper in the European Journal of Nutrition. Pregnant and lactating women, as well as older individuals, are especially at risk.
According to the research study, which involves members of CluB12, a group formed to raise awareness about the growing risk of B12 deficiency in the West, there is an urgent need to fortify plant-based dairy and meat alternatives in the UK to address B12 deficits. Vegans and vegetarians must carefully plan their diets and continuously monitor their nutrient intake.
As part of their research, Smith’s group has discovered how algae accumulate B12. “Algae do not produce B12 themselves; instead, they absorb it from their surroundings, where bacteria produce it,” Smith explained. “We have identified different forms of B12 and identified the algae that accumulate the types that are effective in humans. This allows us to assist the industry in manufacturing effective algal supplements, enabling us to address the serious problem of B12 deficiency that we are now facing.”