Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient your body needs for energy, red blood cell production, and healthy nerve function. While many people associate B12 with meat and fortified foods, beverages can also be a convenient way to increase your daily intake.

Fortified Plant Milks

What they are
Plant-based milks such as almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk don’t naturally contain vitamin B12.
Many brands add nutrients—including B12, calcium, and vitamin D—to mimic the nutritional profile of dairy milk.

Benefits and who they suit
These beverages are ideal for vegans, vegetarians, and people with lactose intolerance.
A fortified cup generally provides close to half of your daily B12 needs.

How to enjoy
Add plant milk to smoothies, cereal, oatmeal, coffee, or tea. Check labels carefully, as not all brands are fortified.

Dairy Milk

Natural source of B12
Cow’s milk contains naturally occurring vitamin B12 in an easy-to-absorb form.
A single cup often supplies more than 50% of the recommended daily amount.

Added nutrients
Besides B12, dairy milk delivers calcium and protein for strong bones and muscle support.

Ways to use
Drink it plain, pour it over cereal, add it to smoothies, or use it in soups or desserts.

Yogurt-Based Smoothies

Easy nutrient booster
Yogurt naturally contains B12. Blending it into smoothies creates a practical way to boost intake—especially for busy adults or selective eaters.

Who benefits most
Older individuals, people with low appetites, and teens needing an easy meal or snack may find yogurt-based smoothies especially helpful.

How to blend
Combine Greek yogurt with berries, nut butter, protein powder, and your preferred milk for a nourishing drink.

Meal Replacement Drinks And Protein Powders

Fortified convenience
Meal replacement shakes and powders often contain added vitamins, including B12. Some brands provide more than 100% of the daily value per serving.

Ideal for
People needing a portable snack, recovering after exercise, or increasing calorie and protein intake without large meals.

How to use
Enjoy ready-made shakes or add a scoop of protein powder to smoothies, oats, or yogurt.

Vitamin Powders

Supplement in drink form
Vitamin powders dissolve in water or juice and offer a drinkable alternative to pills. Many contain hundreds—or even thousands—of percent of the daily B12 allowance.

Why some choose them
They are useful for those who cannot swallow tablets or prefer a flavored beverage supplement.

Use carefully
Follow label directions and avoid taking multiple servings, as many exceed daily needs.

Kefir

Probiotic powerhouse
Kefir is a fermented dairy drink rich in probiotics and naturally occurring B12.
A serving often provides roughly one-third of your daily requirement.

Bonus benefits
Kefir supports digestive and immune health while offering calcium, vitamin A, and protein.

How to drink it
Enjoy on its own, mix it with fruit in a smoothie, or drizzle over granola.

How To Choose And Use B12 Drinks

Check B12 content
Look for beverages that contain at least 25% of your daily value per serving.

Pair with food sources
Combine drinks with B12-rich foods such as eggs, fish, meat, or fortified cereals.

Limit excess sugar
Opt for unsweetened varieties whenever available.

Supplements may still be needed
If you are deficient, beverages alone may not correct it. Consult a healthcare provider to determine whether additional supplementation is necessary.