Research: Light Management Can Turn Spirulina into a B12 Source
· ScienceDaily Beslenme
Scientists have determined that spirulina grown under controlled light in photobioreactors produces biologically active B12 vitamin, absorbable by the human body, reaching values comparable to beef.
New Research in Algae Biotechnology
An experimental study led by Reichman University with scientists from Iceland, Denmark, and Austria, published in Discover Food magazine, has revealed new findings in algae cultivation. Researchers examined the photobioreactor platform developed by Iceland-based VAXA Technologies, producing nutrient-rich blue-green algae (Arthrospira platensis) biomass under carbon-neutral conditions. The study indicates that spirulina grown under controlled light conditions contains, for the first time, absorbable active B12 vitamin for the human body.
The B12 Issue in Traditional Spirulina
Vitamin B12 is a critical micronutrient for red blood cell formation and nervous system function, and it is estimated that over 1 billion people worldwide suffer from its deficiency. While the daily recommended intake is 2.4 µg/day, animal-based foods are the primary sources. Although traditional spirulina is highly nutrient-dense, a large portion of its B12 is in the 'pseudo B12' form, which cannot be effectively utilized by the human body.
Nutrient Transformation Through Photonic Management
The research team meticulously examined the system's engineering design, energy inputs, and the nutrient composition of the obtained biomass. The photonic management approach, which forms the basis of the technology, allowed for precise modification of the light environment to which the algae were exposed. It was observed that this intervention stimulated spirulina to produce biologically active B12 vitamin. The cultivated product was also found to contain other bioactive compounds associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
Comparable Values to Beef
Active B12 vitamin was detected at 1.64 µg per 100 grams in the obtained carbon-neutral spirulina biomass. This value was noted to be comparable to the 0.7-1.5 µg/100 g range measured in beef. Dr. Asaf Tzachor, Founder and Academic Director of the Sustainability and Climate Program at Reichman University, commented on the matter:
"the findings demonstrate that photosynthetically controlled Spirulina can produce desirable levels of active vitamin B12, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional animal-source foods."
Dr. Tzachor stated that the developed method can offer a sustainable alternative to animal food sources.
Scaling Scenarios and Global Potential
Scientists calculated the potential outcomes of scaling the technology to an industrial level using theoretical models. In a scenario where a portion of Iceland's heavy industry electricity usage is allocated, it is projected that an annual production of 277,950 tons of biomass and 4555 grams of active B12 vitamin could be achieved. Based on projections from Discover Food data, this volume could meet the needs of 13.8 million children aged 1-3; in broader scenarios, it could meet the needs of 26.5 million children or 50 million infants.
Sustainable Agriculture and Future Expectations
The findings demonstrate that the nutrient profiles of microorganisms can be optimized according to human needs through biotechnological methods. However, researchers emphasize that the data is based on projections rather than current production capacity and that more comprehensive research is needed to integrate the method into real food supply chains. If successful, the system could contribute to creating a more sustainable food supply model by reducing reliance on meat and dairy products.