Why in news?
Scientists reported that a specially cultivated form of Spirulina, a nutrient‑rich blue‑green algae, can produce biologically active vitamin B12 at levels comparable to beef. The discovery offers a potential plant‑based solution to vitamin B12 deficiency, which affects more than a billion people worldwide. The research was published in the journal Discover Food and highlighted by several news outlets in early May 2026.
Background
Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, nerve function and DNA synthesis. Because humans cannot manufacture the vitamin, it must be obtained from food or supplements. Natural sources are mostly animal products like meat, eggs and dairy. Many vegetarians and vegans, along with people with absorption problems, risk deficiency.
Conventional Spirulina products contain pseudo‑vitamin B12, which is chemically similar but not bioavailable to humans. Researchers led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor of Reichman University and collaborators from Iceland, Denmark and Austria cultivated Spirulina in enclosed photobioreactors under carefully managed light conditions. The process alters the algae’s metabolism without genetic modification, encouraging the production of active vitamin B12.
Key points
- Production levels: Photosynthetically controlled Spirulina produced about 1.64 micrograms of active vitamin B12 per 100 g of biomass — similar to the amount found in 100 g of beef. More than 98% of the B12 in the cultivated algae was in its active form.
- Carbon‑neutral biomass: The algae were grown in carbon‑neutral photobioreactors powered by renewable energy. Researchers modelled large‑scale production in Iceland and estimated that one facility could generate enough vitamin B12 to meet the needs of tens of millions of children.
- Benefits and limitations: A plant‑based source of bioavailable B12 could reduce reliance on livestock farming, which has a high environmental footprint. However, further studies are needed to confirm the vitamin’s absorption in humans and to scale up production. People with severe deficiencies will still require medical treatment.
Significance
The breakthrough demonstrates how innovative cultivation techniques can enhance the nutritional value of microalgae. While not a substitute for medical therapy, Spirulina‑derived B12 could become a valuable addition to plant‑based diets and food aid programmes, particularly in regions where access to animal products is limited.
Sources: STD