Which nutrient is found primarily in foods of animal origin?

Which nutrient is found primarily in foods of animal origin?

• A. Vitamin C
• B. Vitamin D
• C. Vitamin B12
• D. Iron

Answer: (C)

Vitamin B12 is found primarily in foods of animal origin because it’s produced by gut bacteria and accumulates in animal tissues, so animal-derived foods are the main dietary sources. Plant foods generally don’t contain active B12 unless they are fortified. This makes B12 a nutrient of concern for people who don’t eat animal products, since deficiency can affect red blood cell formation and nervous system function. In contrast, vitamin C comes from fruits and vegetables, vitamin D is available from fatty fish, fortified foods, and sun exposure, and iron appears in both animal (heme iron) and plant (non-heme iron) sources, with different absorption profiles.

Vitamin B12 is found primarily in foods of animal origin because it’s produced by gut bacteria and accumulates in animal tissues, so animal-derived foods are the main dietary sources. Plant foods generally don’t contain active B12 unless they are fortified. This makes B12 a nutrient of concern for people who don’t eat animal products, since deficiency can affect red blood cell formation and nervous system function. In contrast, vitamin C comes from fruits and vegetables, vitamin D is available from fatty fish, fortified foods, and sun exposure, and iron appears in both animal (heme iron) and plant (non-heme iron) sources, with different absorption profiles.