Scientists have created peas with a daily dose of vitamin B12

Researchers from the Quadram Institute and University of Bristol have developed an innovative method to grow pea sprouts enriched with vitamin B12. The results show that even a small serving of these plants provides more than the recommended daily intake of the vitamin, while maintaining nutritional quality even after extended refrigeration.

Simulated human digestion experiments confirmed the high bioavailability of vitamin B12 from the sprouts. This means the body can efficiently absorb the vitamin from this plant-based source, offering a promising alternative for vegetarians and vegans.

Vitamin B12 is essential for nervous system function and red blood cell formation, yet plants do not naturally produce it. Traditionally, it is obtained from animal-based foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Deficiency can lead to anemia, muscle weakness, and neurological disorders, and a significant share of the global population is at risk.

Although B12 supplements are widely available, they have drawbacks: they are easy to forget, and absorption is less effective without food. In addition, industrial production of the vitamin is complex and costly due to its reliance on bacterial synthesis.

The new approach uses aeroponic cultivation, where plant roots are exposed to a nutrient mist enriched with vitamin B12. After just eight days of growth, as little as 15 grams of the sprouts can meet daily requirements. Scientists believe this method could be extended to other fast-growing leafy crops, opening the door to a new generation of functional foods.

Tags: pea