If you’ve been vegan for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard it a thousand times: “But where do you get your B12?”
Here’s the truth: B12 deficiency is real, and it’s not something to mess around with. As a woman following a plant-based diet, getting adequate B12 isn’t optional—it’s essential for everything from energy levels and brain function to healthy hair and mood regulation.
But with dozens of B12 supplements flooding the market, how do you know which one actually works? Which form is best absorbed? And more importantly, which brands give you the most bang for your buck?
I’ve spent the last three months testing seven of the most popular vegan B12 supplements on the market. I’ve analyzed their ingredients, compared absorption rates, tracked how I felt taking each one, and yes—even taste-tested them (spoiler: some are way better than others).
Let’s dive into my honest, no-BS reviews.
Why Vegan Women Need B12 (And Why Plant Foods Aren’t Enough)
Before we get into the reviews, let’s talk about why B12 supplementation is non-negotiable for vegans.
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is primarily found in animal products because it’s produced by bacteria in the digestive systems of animals. While some plant foods like nutritional yeast are fortified with B12, it’s nearly impossible to get adequate amounts from diet alone on a plant-based diet.
Here’s what B12 does for your body:
- Energy production: B12 helps convert food into glucose, giving you energy
- Red blood cell formation: Prevents anemia and fatigue
- Nervous system health: Maintains the protective covering of nerves
- DNA synthesis: Essential for cell division and growth
- Mood regulation: Helps produce serotonin and dopamine
- Brain function: Supports memory and cognitive performance
Women need 2.4 mcg of B12 daily, but many experts recommend vegans take 250-500 mcg daily or 2,500 mcg weekly to ensure proper absorption.
Symptoms of B12 deficiency include:
- Constant fatigue and weakness
- Tingling in hands and feet
- Memory problems and brain fog
- Mood changes and depression
- Pale or yellowish skin
- Shortness of breath
The scary part? B12 deficiency can take years to show up because your liver stores it. By the time you notice symptoms, you’re already quite deficient.
What I Looked For in a Quality B12 Supplement
Not all B12 supplements are created equal. Here’s what I evaluated:
1. Form of B12
There are four main types:
- Cyanocobalamin: Synthetic, most studied, needs conversion in the body
- Methylcobalamin: Active form, better for some people with genetic variations
- Adenosylcobalamin: Another active form, less common
- Hydroxocobalamin: Long-lasting, used in injections
2. Dosage
Higher isn’t always better, but vegans need more than omnivores due to lower absorption rates.
3. Absorption Method
Sublingual (under the tongue) tablets absorb directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system. This can be beneficial for people with absorption issues.
4. Additional Ingredients
Some supplements add fillers, artificial colors, or allergens. I looked for clean formulas.
5. Value for Money
Cost per serving matters, especially since B12 is something you’ll take daily for life.
6. Third-Party Testing
Independent verification ensures you’re getting what the label promises.
The 7 Best Vegan B12 Supplements: My Honest Reviews
1. Deva Vegan B12 Sublingual Tablets – Best Overall
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 1,000 mcg per tablet
Servings: 90 tablets
Price Range: $8-12

DEVA Vegan Vitamin B12 Fast Dissolve Supplement - Once-Per-Day Complex with 1000 Mcg Methylcobalamin B12, Folic Acid, B6 - Lemon Flavor - 90 Dissolvable Tablets, 2-Pack
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My Experience:
Deva has been my go-to for over a year, and there’s a reason it’s consistently rated as one of the best vegan B12 supplements.
These sublingual tablets dissolve quickly under your tongue (about 30 seconds) with a pleasant, slightly sweet taste—no weird chemical aftertaste like some brands. The methylcobalamin form means it’s already in the active form your body uses, so there’s no conversion needed.
At 1,000 mcg per tablet, it’s a solid daily dose. I take one every morning with breakfast, and I’ve noticed sustained energy throughout the day without that jittery feeling you sometimes get from energy drinks or caffeine.
Pros:
- Excellent absorption with sublingual delivery
- Clean ingredients (no artificial colors or flavors)
- Affordable at roughly $0.10-13 per serving
- Methylcobalamin form is highly bioavailable
- Certified vegan and made in a GMP facility
Cons:
- Tablets are slightly chalky if you chew them (don’t do this—let them dissolve!)
- Bottle design makes it easy to spill if knocked over
Best For: Daily B12 maintenance for budget-conscious vegans who want reliable absorption.
Where to Find: Available on Amazon and most health food stores. Check current deals on B12 supplements here.
2. Garden of Life MyKind Organics B12 Spray – Best for On-the-Go
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 500 mcg per spray
Servings: 58 sprays
Price Range: $15-18

Garden of Life Organics B12 Vitamin - Whole Food B-12 for Metabolism and Energy, Raspberry, 2oz Liquid
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My Experience:
If you’re always on the move, this spray is a game-changer. I keep one in my purse, one in my gym bag, and one in my desk drawer at work.
The raspberry flavor is actually enjoyable—it tastes like a tiny burst of fruit, not like medicine. Two sprays give you 1,000 mcg, which is what I aim for daily. The spray delivery means it absorbs through the mucous membranes in your mouth, bypassing your digestive system entirely.
What I love most is that it’s made from real food—organic ingredients with no synthetic additives. Garden of Life is serious about their clean formulations.
Pros:
- Super convenient for travel or busy lifestyles
- Certified organic, Non-GMO, and vegan
- Pleasant raspberry taste
- No pills to swallow
- Certified Kosher and gluten-free
Cons:
- More expensive per serving (about $0.26-31)
- Spray mechanism can get sticky if not wiped after use
- Smaller overall supply (58 servings vs. 90+ in tablets)
Best For: Vegans who travel frequently or prefer not to swallow pills.
3. NOW Foods Methyl B-12 Lozenges – Best Value
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 5,000 mcg per lozenge
Servings: 60 lozenges
Price Range: $10-13

Now Foods - Liquid B-12 (B Complex) 2 fl oz
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My Experience:
NOW Foods is a trusted name in supplements, and their B12 lozenges deliver serious value. At 5,000 mcg per lozenge, this is a high-dose option—I take one twice a week rather than daily.
The lozenges have a pleasant cherry flavor and dissolve slowly in your mouth. I usually let one dissolve while I’m getting ready in the morning, which takes about 5-7 minutes.
NOW Foods has been around since 1968 and has excellent manufacturing practices. Their products are third-party tested, which gives me confidence I’m getting pure B12 without contaminants.
Pros:
- Incredible value at $0.17-22 per serving
- High dose perfect for weekly supplementation
- Pleasant cherry flavor
- Family-owned company with 50+ years of experience
- GMP certified and third-party tested
Cons:
- Very high dose isn’t necessary for everyone
- Takes longer to dissolve than some sublingual tablets
- Some people prefer lower daily doses to higher weekly doses
Best For: Vegans who prefer weekly high-dose supplementation over daily pills.
4. Future Kind Essential Vegan Multivitamin – Best All-in-One
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 400 mcg B12 (plus D3 and Omega-3)
Servings: 30 capsules
Price Range: $25-30
My Experience:
Okay, this isn’t technically just a B12 supplement, but hear me out. Future Kind combines the three nutrients vegans most commonly lack: B12, vitamin D3, and omega-3 DHA/EPA.
Taking one capsule daily covers multiple nutritional bases, which simplifies my supplement routine significantly. The B12 dose is moderate at 400 mcg, but combined with the other nutrients, it’s a solid option for overall nutrition.
The company was founded by vegans for vegans, and their commitment to sustainability is impressive—they use algae-based omega-3s instead of fish oil and source their D3 from lichen.
Pros:
- Three essential vegan nutrients in one capsule
- Founded by vegans with transparent sourcing
- Sustainable ingredients (algae omega-3, lichen D3)
- Eliminates need for multiple supplements
- Small, easy-to-swallow capsules
Cons:
- More expensive at $0.83-1.00 per serving
- B12 dose is lower than stand-alone supplements
- Not suitable if you only need B12
- Must be taken with food for optimal absorption
Best For: Vegans who want comprehensive nutritional support in one convenient supplement.
Learn more: Check out our complete guide to vegan supplements for information on other essential nutrients.
5. Pure Encapsulations B12 Liquid – Best for Absorption Issues
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 1,000 mcg per serving (one full dropper)
Servings: 30 servings
Price Range: $18-22
My Experience:
Pure Encapsulations is a premium brand recommended by many functional medicine doctors, and their liquid B12 is incredibly pure—just methylcobalamin and purified water.
The liquid format is ideal for people with digestive issues, absorption problems, or anyone who has trouble with pills. You place a dropper-full under your tongue, hold it for 30 seconds, then swallow.
The taste is… well, it’s not great. It’s slightly metallic and bitter, but it’s tolerable. I usually follow it with a sip of juice.
What sets Pure Encapsulations apart is their hypoallergenic formula—no gluten, GMOs, artificial additives, or common allergens. This is as clean as B12 supplementation gets.
Pros:
- Medical-grade purity
- Liquid format ideal for absorption issues
- Hypoallergenic and free from all major allergens
- Recommended by healthcare practitioners
- Easy to adjust dosage
Cons:
- Expensive at $0.60-73 per serving
- Metallic taste isn’t pleasant
- Dropper can be messy
- Requires refrigeration after opening
Best For: People with digestive issues, absorption problems, or those who want the purest possible supplement.
6. MaryRuth’s Organic Vegan B12 Gummies – Best Tasting
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 500 mcg per gummy
Servings: 60 gummies
Price Range: $20-24
My Experience:
If you have a sweet tooth, these gummies are dessert and supplementation rolled into one. They taste like strawberry candy—I actually have to remind myself they’re vitamins, not treats!
Each gummy provides 500 mcg of B12, so I take two daily for 1,000 mcg total. They’re made with organic ingredients, naturally flavored, and contain no artificial colors or high-fructose corn syrup.
The texture is soft and chewy, not rubbery like some gummy vitamins. MaryRuth’s uses pectin instead of gelatin, making them fully vegan and easier to digest.
Pros:
- Delicious strawberry flavor
- Fun and easy to take
- Organic ingredients with no artificial additives
- Pectin-based (not gelatin)
- Good for people who hate pills
Cons:
- More expensive at $0.33-40 per serving
- Contains sugar (2g per serving)
- Can be too tempting—easy to take more than needed
- Requires chewing, not ideal for people with dental work
Best For: Vegans who struggle with pill fatigue and want a tasty supplement option.
7. Jarrow Formulas Methyl B-12 – Best for High Potency
Form: Methylcobalamin
Dosage: 5,000 mcg per lozenge
Servings: 60 lozenges
Price Range: $12-16
My Experience:
Jarrow Formulas is another heavy-hitter in the supplement world, and their methyl B-12 lozenges are pharmaceutical-grade quality.
At 5,000 mcg, this is a high-dose option similar to NOW Foods. I use these for weekly supplementation—one lozenge on Sunday morning while I’m planning my week.
The cherry flavor is pleasant but quite sweet. They dissolve relatively quickly (3-4 minutes) and leave minimal residue. Jarrow uses methylcobalamin, which research suggests may be superior for certain people with MTHFR gene variations.
Pros:
- Pharmaceutical-grade quality control
- High potency for weekly dosing
- Pleasant cherry flavor
- Trusted brand with extensive research backing
- Good value at $0.20-27 per serving
Cons:
- Very sweet taste may be too much for some
- High dose not needed by everyone
- Can temporarily turn tongue bright red from color
- Not suitable for daily low-dose approach
Best For: Vegans who prefer concentrated weekly doses and want pharmaceutical-grade quality.
How I Tested These Supplements
Over three months, I rotated through each supplement for 2-3 weeks at a time. I tracked:
- Energy levels: Rated 1-10 daily at 10 AM, 2 PM, and 6 PM
- Mood: Noted any changes in anxiety, depression, or overall mood
- Physical symptoms: Monitored for tingling, fatigue, brain fog
- Convenience: How easy was it to incorporate into daily routine?
- Taste: Because if it tastes terrible, you won’t take it consistently
- Cost: Calculated per-serving cost for each product
I also had my B12 levels tested at the beginning and end of the three-month period. My levels went from 450 pg/mL (normal but on the lower end) to 725 pg/mL (optimal range).
Comparison Chart: At a Glance
| Brand | Form | Dosage | Price/Serving | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deva | Methylcobalamin | 1,000 mcg | $0.10-0.13 | Daily use, budget-friendly |
| Garden of Life | Methylcobalamin | 500 mcg | $0.26-0.31 | Travel, convenience |
| NOW Foods | Methylcobalamin | 5,000 mcg | $0.17-0.22 | Weekly dosing, value |
| Future Kind | Methylcobalamin | 400 mcg | $0.83-1.00 | All-in-one nutrition |
| Pure Encapsulations | Methylcobalamin | 1,000 mcg | $0.60-0.73 | Purity, absorption issues |
| MaryRuth’s | Methylcobalamin | 500 mcg | $0.33-0.40 | Taste, pill-haters |
| Jarrow Formulas | Methylcobalamin | 5,000 mcg | $0.20-0.27 | High potency, quality |
Which B12 Supplement Should You Choose?
Choose Deva if: You want reliable daily B12 at the best price point. This is my personal favorite for consistent, affordable supplementation.
Choose Garden of Life if: You’re always on the go and need maximum convenience. The spray format is unbeatable for travel.
Choose NOW Foods if: You prefer weekly high-dose supplementation and want excellent value from a trusted brand.
Choose Future Kind if: You want to simplify your supplement routine and cover B12, D3, and omega-3 in one capsule.
Choose Pure Encapsulations if: You have absorption issues or want the absolute purest, medical-grade supplement.
Choose MaryRuth’s if: You struggle with pill fatigue and need something that feels like a treat, not medicine.
Choose Jarrow Formulas if: You want pharmaceutical-grade quality with concentrated weekly dosing.
Tips for Taking B12 Supplements
1. Consistency is Key Whether you supplement daily or weekly, stick to a schedule. Set a phone reminder if needed.
2. Take on an Empty Stomach B12 absorbs best when taken first thing in the morning before food, especially sublingual forms.
3. Don’t Megadose Unless Deficient More isn’t always better. Stick to recommended doses unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
4. Consider Getting Tested Ask your doctor for a B12 blood test annually to ensure your levels are optimal (aim for 500-1,000 pg/mL).
5. Pair with Folate B12 and folate work together. Many vegan diets are rich in folate, but if you’re taking high-dose B12, consider a B-complex occasionally.
6. Watch for Interactions Some medications can interfere with B12 absorption, including metformin, proton pump inhibitors, and certain antibiotics.
Common Questions About Vegan B12 Supplements
Q: Can I get B12 from nutritional yeast?
A: While nutritional yeast is fortified with B12, you’d need to consume large amounts daily (several tablespoons) to meet your needs. It’s a helpful addition but shouldn’t be your sole source.
Q: Is methylcobalamin better than cyanocobalamin?
A: Both work well. Methylcobalamin is already in active form and may be beneficial for people with MTHFR gene variations, but cyanocobalamin is more stable and extensively studied.
Q: How long does it take to correct a B12 deficiency?
A: With daily supplementation, you can start feeling better in 2-4 weeks, but it takes 2-3 months to fully replenish stores and see optimal blood levels.
Q: Can I overdose on B12?
A: B12 is water-soluble, so excess is generally excreted in urine. However, extremely high doses (over 10,000 mcg daily) may cause skin reactions in some people.
Q: Should I take B12 if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: Absolutely. B12 needs increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for appropriate dosing (typically 2.6-2.8 mcg daily).
The Bottom Line
After testing seven of the top vegan B12 supplements on the market, my clear winner for most people is Deva Vegan B12 Sublingual Tablets. They offer excellent absorption, clean ingredients, and unbeatable value.
That said, the “best” supplement is the one you’ll actually take consistently. If gummies make you more compliant, go with MaryRuth’s. If you travel constantly, Garden of Life’s spray is your friend. If you’re budget-conscious and prefer weekly dosing, NOW Foods is hard to beat.
B12 supplementation isn’t optional for vegans—it’s essential healthcare. The good news? At less than $15 for a 2-3 month supply, protecting your health has never been more affordable.
Don’t let B12 deficiency sneak up on you. Pick one of these quality supplements, take it consistently, and give your body the support it needs to thrive on a plant-based diet.
Ready to stock up? Browse today’s best deals on vegan supplements and save up to 50% on top brands.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. The affiliate links in this post help support our work at no extra cost to you.
