Scientists develop Spirulina as sustainable B12 source
Light-controlled Spirulina cultivation produces B12 levels comparable to beef.
1Sustainable solution for B12 deficiency
Researchers have found a way to cultivate Spirulina cyanobacteria to produce biologically active vitamin B12 at levels comparable to beef. This method offers values close to those found in meat. Over a billion people worldwide are estimated to suffer from B12 deficiency. Traditional Spirulina contained pseudo-B12 that couldn't be utilized by the human body. The new technique aims to overcome this barrier by providing a sustainable alternative.
2Developed through international collaboration
The team led by Dr. Asaf Tzachor from Reichman University worked with researchers from Iceland, Denmark and Austria. Using VAXA Technologies' biotechnology platform, the team produced carbon-neutral, nutrient-rich Spirulina biomass. This marks the first reported instance of biologically active B12 in Spirulina. Carefully controlled light conditions were key to this achievement.
3B12 levels comparable to meat
According to research results, the developed Spirulina contains 1.64 µg of active B12 per 100 grams. This value is comparable to the 0.7-1.5 µg B12 found in 100 grams of meat. Vitamin B12 plays crucial roles in processes like red blood cell formation and nervous system functions. The environmental costs of animal food production are increasing interest in such sustainable alternatives.
4Photonics management technology
At the system's core lies the management of photonics. Modifying the light environment where Spirulina grows stimulates production of biologically active B12. This method also increases production of other bioactive compounds associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Biotechnology's potential to alter nutritional properties opens new possibilities in food systems.
5Large-scale production potential in Iceland
Researchers calculated that redirecting some electricity currently used by heavy industry in Iceland could support annual production of 277,950 tons of Spirulina biomass. This quantity would contain about 4555 grams of active B12. According to calculations, this production could meet the daily B12 requirements of 13.8 million children aged 1-3. More ambitious scenarios could serve 26.5 million children.
6Nutritional and environmental benefits
This technology holds potential to combat nutritional deficiencies while reducing reliance on animal food production. Unlike traditional agriculture, Spirulina cultivation leaves a smaller environmental footprint. Researchers emphasize this method could be particularly valuable in regions with low meat consumption and for vegetarian/vegan populations.
7Next steps and challenges
The findings represent a step toward developing more sustainable sources of essential nutrients. However, integrating this technology into real-world food systems requires further research and large-scale production studies. Factors like cost-effectiveness, consumer acceptance and distribution channels will be critical determinants of this innovation's widespread adoption.
8Sustainability education and research
Reichman University and the Aviram Foundation established the Aviram Sustainability and Climate Program in response to growing global environmental and public health challenges. The program trains students from various disciplines to develop strategies addressing resource scarcity, climate change and food crises. This research forms part of the program's focus on sustainable food systems.