Top Food Sources of Vitamin B2

Function: Energy metabolism, nerve function

(Riboflavin)

Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble B-vitamin essential for energy production, cellular function, and antioxidant protection. It’s mainly found in dairy, eggs, lean meats, and green vegetables.
  • Crucial for Energy Metabolism – Vitamin B2 helps convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy by supporting key enzymatic reactions.
  • Water-Soluble Vitamin – Being water-soluble, Vitamin B2 isn’t stored in large amounts and requires daily intake through diet.
  • Supports Antioxidant Activity – Riboflavin is a component of glutathione reductase, an enzyme that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
  • Important for Skin, Eyes, and Nervous System – It plays a role in maintaining healthy skin, vision, and nervous system function.
  • Found Mainly in Dairy and Lean Meats – Good sources include milk, yogurt, eggs, lean beef, and fortified cereals.
  • Sensitive to Light – Vitamin B2 degrades quickly when exposed to light, which is why milk is often sold in opaque containers.
  • Deficiency Causes Ariboflavinosis – Symptoms include sore throat, redness and swelling of the mouth and tongue, and skin disorders.
  • Supports Red Blood Cell Production – It aids in the production and function of red blood cells, contributing to oxygen transport.
  • Excess Is Excreted – Like other water-soluble vitamins, excess riboflavin is removed by the kidneys through urine, usually harmless.

Liver (Beef or Chicken) (Cooked)

One of the richest natural sources of Vitamin B2, supporting energy metabolism and detoxification.

Milk (Whole or Skim)

A key dietary source of riboflavin, essential for healthy skin and eyes.

Eggs (Cooked)

Contain good amounts of Vitamin B2, supporting nervous system health.

Almonds (Raw)

Provide riboflavin along with healthy fats and protein.

Spinach (Cooked or Raw)

Contains Vitamin B2 and antioxidants to support cellular health.

Fortified Cereals (Various)

Often enriched with riboflavin to help meet daily needs easily.

Lean Beef (Cooked)

Good source of Vitamin B2 and protein for muscle and metabolic health.

Yogurt (Plain)

Contains Vitamin B2 and probiotics to support digestion and skin health.

Mushrooms (Cooked)

Provide riboflavin along with other B vitamins and antioxidants.

Quinoa (Cooked)

A plant-based source of Vitamin B2 and complete protein.

Liver

Skin