The 9 best vegan B12 supplements to buy (UK)

Vitamin B12 is a pretty important nutrient that all humans need to survive. Our bodies cannot produce it on their own, so we either need to get it from the food that we eat or through supplementation. B12 is actually created by bacteria in the soil, which used to be passed through to animals who would graze on the land, as well as through to our natural produce.

Nowadays, due to modern farming practices, these bacteria have pretty much diminished. Leading many farmers to supplement their livestock with vitamin B12. Since these foods aren’t plant-based and our fresh produce no longer contains these natural bacteria, it simply isn’t possible for vegans to get B12 from ‘natural’ sources anymore. That is where both fortified vegan foods and vegan B12 supplements come in. By consuming either of these, or both, you can ensure you maintain sufficient levels of B12 to keep your body functioning the way it should!

As much as I want to use this article as an opportunity to continue moaning about people, especially those who like to remind me that vegans can’t get enough B12 from their diets, therefore making veganism an unnatural diet, I will refrain from doing so. Mostly because I want to provide useful information to support you with your health and wellness journey. And also because I’ve probably moaned about it enough with friends and family.

What I will say though is that by purchasing vegan B12 supplements, you are simply going straight to the source rather than relying on the secondary sources of it which require harmful practices of animal slaughter, etc. etc. (much like vegan sources of omega-3). I will also use this opportunity to state that veganism is a very healthy and natural diet to follow, just check out all of these fantastic health benefits of a vegan diet.

So, with all that now being said, let’s get down and dirty with this soil-based bacteria. I’ll first go into more detail about vitamin B12 and the reasons we need to get it in our diets, before going over my favourite vegan B12 supplements you can buy in the UK.

Please note: I am not a nutritionist, nor a doctor, but I am a vegan of 8 years with a keen interest in vegan nutrition. I have done A LOT of research into supplements and nutrition, and I am passing this information on to you. Wherever possible, I have quoted scientific research to provide you with extra reading material!

My pick of the best vegan B12 supplements

I take vegan B12 supplements every day to ensure I maintain sustainable levels of this vital vitamin. Here are my top picks for you to choose from:

• Best standalone: Ethical Nutrition Pure Vitamin B12
• Best multivitamin with B12: Form Vegan Multivitamin
• Best high-dose: DR.VEGAN B12
• Best spray: Well Actually Liposomal B12
• Best gummy: Novomins Vitamin B12 Gummies
• Best powder: Jrny Plant-Based Vitality Blend
• Best nootropics with B12: Feel Focus
• Best budget-friendly: Mobu Vitamin B12
• Best eco-friendly packaging: Wild Nutrition Vitamin B12 Plus

What is vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential water-soluble vitamin created by bacteria that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within your body. It is necessary for energy production, DNA synthesis, and the proper development and functioning of your central nervous system.

While your body requires vitamin B12 for optimal health, it cannot produce it on its own. Therefore, obtaining an adequate supply of this vitamin through your diet or supplementation is essential.

Methylcobalamin is the natural and active form of B12, which is found in food sources as well as many supplements. Another common form is cyanocobalamin, a synthetic variant of B12.

Is vitamin B12 vegan?

The question of whether vitamin B12 is vegan can be a bit nuanced. In its pure form, vitamin B12 is actually a bacteria and can be considered inherently vegan (see scientific source). It is produced by certain bacteria, archaea, and other microorganisms. These microorganisms can be found in soil, water, and the gastrointestinal tracts of animals. However, the vitamin itself is not derived from animal tissues or by-products, making it suitable for a vegan diet.

While vitamin B12 itself is vegan, the challenge lies in obtaining it from natural food sources. Traditionally, animal-based foods have been the primary sources of vitamin B12 in our diets. This is because animals consume or absorb the bacteria that produce the vitamin through their own diet or from the environment. Although this is becoming increasingly hard for them to do so farmers often supplement their livestock with B12. As a result, animal products like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy contain vitamin B12.

Due to modern farming techniques, obtaining adequate vitamin B12 solely from natural food sources can be challenging. As a result, many of us supplement our diets with vitamin B12 to ensure our nutritional needs are met. Vegan vitamin B12 supplements, which can be derived from microbial fermentation or produced synthetically, are widely available and effective.

Why do we need vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 plays a pretty crucial role in keeping our bodies healthy. Here are some of the biggest reasons why we need to be obtaining enough B12:

1. Red blood cell formation: Vitamin B12 helps create healthy red blood cells, preventing anaemia and related symptoms like fatigue.
2. Nervous system function: B12 supports the proper functioning of the nervous system, maintaining nerve health and preventing issues like numbness or balance problems.
3. Energy production: B12 assists in converting food into energy, supporting metabolism and overall energy levels.
4. DNA synthesis: B12 is essential for DNA production, promoting cell growth, division, and repair.
5. Brain health and cognition: Adequate B12 levels are essential for brain health and cognitive function, potentially reducing the risk of cognitive decline and memory problems.

How much vitamin B12 do I need?

The recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 can vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and individual circumstances. I am not a doctor, so I gave gathered guidelines from The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering (see source). Here are their general guidelines for vitamin B12 intake:

1. Adults: Most adults’ recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 2.4 micrograms (mcg) per day.
2. Pregnant and breastfeeding women: It is advised for pregnant women to consume 2.6 mcg per day while breastfeeding women should aim for 2.8 mcg per day.
3. Children and adolescents: The RDA for children and adolescents varies based on age. Here are the approximate values:
   • 0-6 months: 0.4 mcg
   • 7-12 months: 0.5 mcg
   • 1-3 years: 0.9 mcg
   • 4-8 years: 1.2 mcg
   • 9-13 years: 1.8 mcg
   • 14-18 years: 2.4 mcg

Some individuals may require higher doses or have specific needs due to certain conditions or medications. For example, people with pernicious anaemia or gastrointestinal disorders that affect B12 absorption may need higher doses or B12 injections under medical supervision.

Here are the best vegan B12 supplements

Now you are all clued up on vitamin B12, let me take you through the best vegan vitamin B12 supplements you can buy in the UK. There is an option for everyone, no matter your needs!

Useful vegan nutrition guides

Whether you are new to veganism or you are looking to improve certain aspects of your health, well-being and nutrition, then you may find the following guides really useful:

• Read my guide on what supplements vegans should take
• Discover my favourite vegan omega-3 supplements
• Consider taking one of these vegan multivitamins
• Browse through all of my recommended vegan supplement brands