Vitamin B12 intake and dietary sources across the life cycle in Koreans:Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2022–2024
10.4163/jnh.2026.59.2.202
- Author:
Yeon Joo LEE
1
;
Hyun Ju KIM
;
Seon Ah SIM
Author Information
1. Department of Food and Nutrition, Yeonsung University, Anyang 14011, Republic of Korea
- Publication Type:Research Article
- From:Journal of Nutrition and Health
2026;59(2):202-217
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Purpose:This study aimed to evaluate age- and sex-specific dietary vitamin B12 intake among Koreans, assess adequacy relative to the 2025 Korean Dietary Reference Intakes, and identify major food groups using nationally representative data from the 2022–2024 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES).
Methods:Data from 19,191 participants in the KNHANES 2022–2024 aged1 year and older were analyzed after excluding individuals with extreme energy intake values. Individual vitamin B12 intake was calculated based on 24-hour dietary recall data using the Korean National Standard Food Composition Database (version 10.3). Intake levels were evaluated against age- and sex-specific Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) and Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) values. Complex sample general linear models and cross-tabulation analyses were conducted to examine differences in intake and adequacy.
Results:The mean vitamin B12 intake of the study population was 8.27 μg/day, exceeding the RNI in most age groups. The proportion of individuals meeting or exceeding the RNI was generally high; however, the prevalence of intake below the EAR increased with age, particularly among older women, approximately 35% of whom were at risk of inadequate intake. Animal-based foods, including fish and shellfish, meat, eggs, and dairy products, were the primary contributors to vitamin B12 intake. Adults and older adults with intake below the RNI consumed significantly lower amounts of these food groups compared with those meeting the RNI.
Conclusion:Although overall vitamin B12 intake among Koreans appears sufficient, older adults remain at increased risk of insufficient intake. Continuous monitoring of vitamin B12 nutritional status and targeted dietary strategies, with a focus on older populations, is warranted to prevent potential deficiencies.
