Tag: Coprophagy

Approximately 30-50% of human feces is composed of bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that reside in the gut. While these gut microbes are known to synthesize a variety of vitamins, particularly B vitamins and vitamin K, the location of this synthesis and the human digestive process prevent them from becoming a reliable source for human health.

According to the National Cancer Institute, feces is composed of undigested food, bacteria, mucus, and cells from the intestinal lining. However, despite containing organic matter and traces of nutrients, the question, "Is there nutrition in poo?", must be answered with a firm no when it comes to human consumption due to extreme health risks.

Animals cannot produce vitamin B12 on their own; only certain types of bacteria and archaea can. This microbial synthesis is the central answer to the question: **Where do herbivores get their B12?** The process is a fascinating example of symbiosis and digestive adaptation in the animal kingdom.