Vitamin B12
Vitamin
Vitamin B12 at a glance
- Category
- Vitamin
- Also called
- Cobalamin, Cyanocobalamin, Methylcobalamin
- Commonly found in
- Fortified cereals, Nutritional yeast, Plant-based milk (fortified), Meat
- Diets reviewed
- 26 diets
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that is crucial for maintaining healthy nerve cells, producing DNA, and forming red blood cells. It naturally occurs in animal products such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. For those on a vegan diet, Vitamin B12 can be obtained from fortified foods or supplements, as it is also produced by bacterial fermentation.
Also known as:
Diet Compatibility
Vitamin B12 can come from either animal products or bacteria cultures. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Vitamin B12 can come from either animal products or bacteria cultures. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Vitamin B12 can come from either animal products or bacteria cultures. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →Vitamin B12 can come from either animal products or bacteria cultures. If the label does not provide a source, we recommend calling the manufacturer.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Barley Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Corn Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Dairy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Egg Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Garlic Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gerd diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Gluten Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lactose Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Fodmap diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Lupin Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Milk Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Nightshades diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Oat Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Onion Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Peanut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Rye Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Sesame Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Shell Fish Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Soy Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Tree Nut Free diet.
Learn more →This ingredient is generally considered compatible with a Wheat Free diet.
Learn more →Compatibility ratings are general guidelines and may vary by individual. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized dietary advice.
Why People Avoid Vitamin B12
Vegans and vegetarians often avoid Vitamin B12 from animal sources due to dietary restrictions. Since Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, individuals following a plant-based diet need to ensure they get adequate B12 from fortified foods or supplements. Additionally, some people avoid synthetic forms of Vitamin B12 due to allergies or sensitivities.
Potential Reactions
- Allergic reactions
- Acne
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual reactions can vary. Consult a healthcare professional if you have concerns about specific ingredients.
Foods That Commonly Contain Vitamin B12
Browse products that match your diet.
Explore ProductsFrequently Asked Questions
How Spoonful reviews ingredients
- Evidence-based. Diet compatibility ratings are compiled from peer-reviewed nutrition guidance, dietary association recommendations, and ingredient composition data.
- Continuously updated. Our ingredient database is refreshed as new sources and product data become available.
- Transparent uncertainty. When an ingredient's safety depends on serving size, preparation, or sub-ingredients, we mark it “caution” rather than forcing a binary answer.
- Not medical advice. Ratings are general guidance. Always consult a registered dietitian for personalized recommendations.
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