Dr Ranj Singh joins AHDB campaign to promote milk benefits

Television presenter and front-line doctor Ranj Singh has taken to the streets to urge Britons to consume milk and dairy products as a vital source of vitamin B12.

Backing the return of AHDB’s “We Eat Balanced” campaign, the NHS doctor joined a morning milk round to encourage families to “Wake up to B12” by including milk in their breakfast fodder, to help maintain a nutritious diet.

See also: Farmers’ fury as Exeter City Council axes meat products

Mainly derived from dairy and red meat, the vitamin is difficult to source from foods with a plant-based origin.

Adults need to consume about 1.5 micrograms of B12 a day in order to support a healthy and functioning immune system.

The vitamin is also crucial for reducing tiredness and fatigue, and helps to release energy from food.

Aside from dairy products such as milk, cheese and yogurt, other sources of B12 include lean beef, pork and lamb, along with eggs and fish.

With many feeling the pinch from the cost-of-living crisis, milk – which is also rich in calcium, protein and potassium – is one of the most affordable sources of B12.

It comes as a study of 2,000 adults conducted by the AHDB found that one in four adults (26%) were unaware of the benefits to be gained from consuming B12 rich foods, and a further quarter (27%) did not understand its benefits.

Dr Ranj Singh said: “While many households will be looking to eat healthily in the most cost-effective way possible this year, milk is a great option for those that consume it, as it is packed with important nutrients like B12 at an affordable price.

“This January, I’d encourage families to ‘Wake Up to B12’ with a healthy breakfast made up of foods such as milk and other dairy products.”

To spread awareness of the vitamin’s benefits, the AHDB has launched a new hub with tips on how to incorporate milk and dairy into breakfasts and main meals.