Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, was discovered in the mid-20th century. In the 1940s, a substance was identified in liver that was essential for the growth of young animals. This substance was later named vitamin B12 and was recognized as an essential nutrient for human health.
Vitamin B12 is well understood for its role in DNA synthesis, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation. It is particularly important for vegetarians and vegans, as it is found mostly in animal-derived foods. It is widely used in the prevention and treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency and is considered an important component of a balanced diet. The discovery of vitamin B12 and its importance in human nutrition was a significant milestone in the field of nutrition science.