The Short Answer: It Depends on the Product
To determine if a Vital Proteins product contains Vitamin B12, it is essential to check the nutritional information for the specific supplement you are considering. While the company's popular unflavored Collagen Peptides formula does not include any B vitamins, some specialized products, like the Active Complex, are fortified with a blend of added nutrients, including various B vitamins. The core collagen protein itself does not inherently contain B12, which is an important distinction to understand when evaluating supplements.
Vital Proteins' Flagship Products
The original Vital Proteins unflavored Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen are primarily composed of hydrolyzed collagen and peptides. The ingredient lists for these flagship products clearly show they are made without any added vitamins or sweeteners. Customer feedback on Amazon confirms that these basic products are intended to provide pure collagen protein, and therefore, they do not contain vitamin B12. For individuals seeking only collagen, this stripped-down formulation is ideal, but it will not contribute to B12 intake.
Why a Basic Collagen Supplement Lacks B12
Collagen is a complex protein made of amino acids, acting as a structural building block in the body for skin, bones, and cartilage. Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that the body uses for nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. The two substances are fundamentally different and naturally occur in different types of food sources. Collagen is primarily derived from animal hides or scales, while B12 is typically found in animal meat, dairy, and fortified cereals. A pure collagen supplement, therefore, would not naturally include this vitamin.
Specialized Vital Proteins Formulas with Added Nutrients
In response to various consumer needs, Vital Proteins has developed different products that combine collagen with other beneficial ingredients. It is within these specialized formulas that you may find added vitamins. For instance, the Active Complex Collagen is designed to support the musculoskeletal system and includes a blend of essential vitamins and minerals, including some B vitamins, such as riboflavin (B2) and B6. However, even this formula does not necessarily contain B12, emphasizing the need to check the specific product label. Other brands, like Revive Collagen, specifically mention including B12 in some of their liquid collagen products for its benefits in reducing fatigue. This makes it crucial to read the ingredient label to know exactly what you are purchasing.
The Role of B12 in Supporting Collagen Synthesis
Even though most pure collagen supplements do not contain B12, the two nutrients are still connected in the body. Vitamin B12 plays an indirect but important role in supporting collagen synthesis. By promoting cell regeneration, B12 ensures the body has the necessary building blocks to produce new collagen and other proteins. A deficiency in B12 can hinder the body's ability to create and repair tissues, potentially impacting skin health and elasticity over time. Therefore, for overall skin and tissue health, it's beneficial to ensure adequate intake of both collagen protein and B12, even if they aren't delivered in the same supplement.
How to Get Both Collagen and B12
Since Vital Proteins' standard collagen does not provide B12, consumers must look to other sources to ensure adequate intake.
- Dietary Sources: B12 can be obtained from various foods, especially animal products like meat, fish, and dairy. For vegans or vegetarians, fortified cereals, nutritional yeast, and other fortified plant-based foods are excellent options.
- Fortified Supplements: You can choose a fortified collagen supplement from another brand or take a separate B12 supplement alongside your Vital Proteins collagen powder.
- Combination Products: Look for products that explicitly state they are fortified with a B vitamin complex, as some are specifically formulated to provide a broader nutritional profile.
Comparison of Supplement Options
| Feature | Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides (Unflavored) | Specialized Fortified Collagen Product (e.g., Active Complex) | Standalone B12 Supplement | Fortified Collagen + B12 Product (e.g., Revive) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Pure collagen protein | Collagen + targeted support (e.g., joints) | Address B12 deficiency | Collagen + B12 for energy/skin |
| B12 Content | No | May contain B2, B6, etc., check label for B12 | High concentration | Yes, typically specified |
| Form | Powder | Powder, liquid | Tablets, capsules, sublingual | Liquid |
| Best For | Purity, mixing with anything | Specific health goals | Targeted B12 support | Convenience, all-in-one |
| Best Practices | Take separately with a B12 source | Check label for specific vitamins | Use to supplement diet | Follow product dosage |
Conclusion
In summary, the popular, unflavored Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides do not contain vitamin B12. This is because collagen is a protein, while B12 is a vitamin, and they are distinct nutrients. While some specialized Vital Proteins products and other brands offer collagen supplements fortified with B12, it is essential to read the nutrition label carefully to confirm its inclusion. For those relying on supplements for B12, sourcing it from a dedicated supplement or fortified foods is the most reliable approach. The body needs both nutrients for optimal health, but they don't necessarily need to come from the same product. For more information on dietary needs, you can visit the National Institutes of Health.
