Vitamin B12 ingredient MecobalActive tested in clinical trial for effects on physical performance and cognition support

In a May 22, 2025, press release, HTBA announced results from a clinical study on its methylcobalamin ingredient, MecobalActive. The ingredient is intended to support cognition and strength in active individuals, and details and results of the study were presented by Teresa Pellicer, PhD biotechnology manager at HTBA at Vitafoods Europe in May 2025 in Barcelona, Spain¹.

MecobalActive is produced using proprietary technology and the small particle size helps with bioavailability and absorption. As noted in the press release, HTBA also manufactures citrus flavonoids and produces all active forms of vitamin B12.

“While the advantages of vitamin B12 supplementation for addressing deficiencies are well researched, its impact on healthy populations with normal vitamin B12 levels is far less understood,” stated Tom D'hoore, chief commercial officer of HTBA, in the press release. “In line with our long-term goal to advance vitamin B12 innovation, we embarked on this study to learn how healthy, active individuals can also benefit from supplementation with our bioidentical vitamin B12 ingredient, MecobalActive. Now, we’re excited to share the highly promising results with our partners and collectively explore new possibilities for product development.”

As Pellicer explained in her presentation, the two-arm, triple blind randomized placebo-controlled study involved male amateur cyclists – healthy individuals with normal levels of vitamin B12 – ages 18 – 45. One group was given a tablet of 1 mg of MecobalActive for three consecutive days, and the other was given a placebo. Individuals in the MecobalActive group demonstrated a 4.1% increase in their maximum physical power as well as a 6.4% decrease in fatigue, measured by the Wingate Anaerobic Test. The placebo group demonstrated increase response time in the Lumidic test, while the MecobalActive group showed a 4.9% decrease in response time.

“The findings show how acute MecobalActive supplementation can enhance performance in different aspects of people’s day-to-day lives – from cognitive and physical power to agility and endurance,” explained Pellicer. “This is great news for brands looking develop innovative health and nutrition solutions that cater for both everyday people and amateur or professional athletes who want to scale new heights in active performance.”

Reference

1. Pellicer, Teresa. MecobalActive® A new dimension in cognitive and physical performance. Presentation at Vitafoods Europe (2025). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wix5Hua2V0 (accessed 2025-05-27).