Summarized from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pTSbh-XgxM

  1. Cobalt is a rare metal essential for lithium-ion batteries due to its thermal stability, with most production from the Democratic Republic of Congo.
  2. Cobalt is also crucial for animal life as it is a key component of cobalamin (Vitamin B12), vital for DNA, fatty acid, and amino acid production.
  3. Animals cannot synthesize Vitamin B12 and rely on consuming it from food, a dependency that evolved because synthesizing B12 is a complex and energy-intensive biological process.
  4. Plants do not require B12 as they have a different biochemical pathway for DNA, fatty acid, and protein synthesis.
  5. Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to severe health issues, including problems with red blood cell production, neurological problems, and fatigue.
  6. The typical Indian diet often leads to B12 deficiency due to low per capita meat consumption, as B12 is primarily found in animal sources.
  7. To ensure adequate B12 intake, options include consuming red meat and seafood, fortified foods, or supplements, especially for those on vegan diets or with culturally limited animal product intake.