Mention collagen 10 years ago and very few people would know what you’re talking about.
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Now, collagen is a household name.
Its popularity has increased exponentially in the last decade, with people—specifically women—flocking to it in hopes of reversing signs of aging (think: crepe-like skin, wrinkles, thinning hair, achy joints).
They’re not stopping, either. By , the collagen market is expected to be a 76.08 billion dollar industry (1).
In this article, we’ll reveal the seven most important things to look for when buying a collagen supplement—and most importantly—what to avoid.
Collagen is the most abundant protein in your body (it makes up about 30% of your total protein!).
Because of this, it’s often called the building block of your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, and other connective tissues. It repairs several tissues in your body and plays a supportive role in skin health, bone mineral density, joint health, gut health, and more (2, 3, 4, 5).
Did you know that there are 28 distinct varieties of collagen (6)?
However, 90% of the collagen in your body is comprised of only Types 1, 2, and 3 (7).
Type 1 collagen is primarily found in your skin, bones, teeth, tendons, ligaments, vascular system, and organs. Type 2, although abundant, is found only in your cartilage (6). Type 3 is found in your skin, muscles, and blood vessels.
Supplementing with all three types of collagen seems best, but studies show that Type 2 inhibits the absorption of Type 1 and Type 3 (8). The ideal collagen supplement contains only Types 1 and 3 collagen.
Type 1 collagen positively impacts (9, 10, 5, 3, 11):
Type 3 collagen positively impacts (5, 12, 13):
Many companies market their collagen as “multi-collagen”, boasting that it contains several collagen types in one. Don’t be fooled: these added collagen fibers are filler fibers that take away the effectiveness of the more potent fibers like Type 1 and 3.
Collagen supplements can come from a variety of sources like bovine (cow), marine (fish), and even vegan options (yeast) (14). When it comes to bovine collagen, it’s essential that it’s grass-fed bovine.
Grass-fed cows are cows raised without antibiotics and hormones, and never fed genetically modified organisms (GMOs) (15).
Conventional beef is pumped with all kinds of chemicals like growth hormones (rBGH and rBST) and antibiotics that you shouldn’t be ingesting every day. 95% cows in the U.S. that are not 100% grass-fed are fed GMO corn (16).
To avoid these potential contaminants in your bovine collagen supplement, always look for “grass-fed” along with “non-GMO” on the label.
While there’s no set dosage for collagen, studies have confirmed that a 10 gram serving is ideal for your daily dose (17).
That said, there are several collagen supplements out there that offer a measly 2.5 or 5 grams of collagen per serving—barely enough to offer the transformational benefits that so many are after when taking collagen. (This is especially true for liquid collagen supplements.)
We recommend taking at least 10-20 grams of collagen peptides per day—and that’s if you’re just wanting to maintain collagen levels. If you’re 50 years old and just starting collagen, we recommend taking 40 grams of collagen for 8 weeks to replenish the collagen that you’ve lost over the years. And then lowering your daily dose back down to 20 grams.
Some research suggests that 2.5 to 5 grams is enough to notice changes in cellulite and skin elasticity, but not for more serious issues like sarcopenia (muscle loss due to aging), osteoporosis, or activity-related joint pain (18, 19, 20, 2).
For more information, please visit hydrolyzed fish collagen manufacturers.
Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides both mean the same thing: that the collagen has gone through a process that breaks it down into smaller, ready-to-absorb amino acids that can easily be soaked up by your body. Put simply, collagen peptides require much less effort from your digestion and guarantees a more potent dose of collagen (6).
Non-hydrolyzed collagen, on the other hand, requires your digestive enzymes to work harder.
The easiest way to tell if a collagen powder is truly hydrolyzed is if it doesn’t clump when you add it to coffee, tea, or water.
If you’re well-versed on the health benefits of Collagen then you’re probably in the market to purchase. In order to make an informed purchase, it’s important you understand everything before picking a Collagen supplement for your usage.
The trickiest part of buying a dietary supplement is falling into the trap that they are all the same. If you’re sourcing an ingredient how could one jar on the shelf really be so different from the jar right next to it. First and foremost, you always want to buy “hydrolyzed” Collagen. In terms of quality and bioavailability that is imperative. Equally important, you want to look for grass-fed, pasture raised for Bovine Collagen and wild-caught for Marine Collagen. Supplementing the right Collagen not only benefits you, but also has a positive impact on the environment as the sources of Collagen from animals is often put to waste – i.e. fish scales, skin, bones.
The most common form of Collagen supplements is powder. However, if you do not like mixing the powders in food or drink and would prefer pills – they exist as well. The efficacy of the Collagen is the same in either powder or pills.
There are many benefits to Collagen supplementation that are well-documented on our website. We cannot specifically call out a particular benefit but some clinically proven benefits are – joint pain relief, reduced inflammation, rejuvenated hair/skin/nails, improved digestive health, builds lean body mass – reduces fat/cellulite through appetite control, and much more.
Read More about Collagen Supplements
The Collagen Dietary Supplement global market is projected to reach over USD$6 billion by according to Grand View Research. This number is driven by the healthcare sector with cosmetics having the largest impact on the total sales as of . However, the overall health benefits of collagen as a consumable dietary supplement is the main factor for growth over the next decade. The growing popularity is a direct result of increased consumer knowledge of the clinically proven health benefits of supplementing Collagen. Let’s break it down quite simply what those benefits are –
Outside of the cosmetic application of Collagen, one of the oldest tested benefits of supplementing is the impact it joints and ligaments. Studies go back to that cite collagen as reducing inflammation for arthritis patients. Modern day studies show overall preservation and restoration of connective tissue in the body. As you age, this is something that absolutely cannot be taken for granted especially if you’re an active person.
The most well-known application of supplementing Collagen is the impact it has on your skin, hair and nails. There are a significant amount of studies that clinically show Collagen supplements to have reduced skin dryness, wrinkles and even cellulite. It even showed improved skin firmness in a period of 12 short weeks. On top of these positive benefits, it’s also shown to improve brittle nails as well as hair growth and quality. As stated, this one of the most well-known benefits of Collagen and there are studies to back it up.
Read More about Collagen Supplement Benefits
“I am a 37-year old male. I’m a husband, a father and lead an active lifestyle. My health is very important to me, but like many I’ve tried a billion different things to fully optimize my overall wellness. I’ve had reconstructive surgery on my left knee, both of my shoulders have had enough tendinitis to choke a pig and I have about a half dozen other little physical hurdles that make it hard for me to feel like I’m at my best. I like to stay in good shape, avoid the dad bod, build lean body mass, but also make sure I’m functioning at a high level. I haven’t tried a few dietary supplements, I’ve probably tried hundreds. Anything from whey protein to fish oil to even fat burners. For a while, I was less concerned what was on the label and more concerned with what these random products could do for me. In hindsight, how stupid is that? Eventually, I started paying attention to what was in my dietary supplements and soon thereafter learned that about 80% of them have stuff in them I don’t want in my body. It was around this time I stumbled upon Zammex Nutrition’s Multi-Collagen Protein. Never in a million years did I think Collagen Peptides was something I should supplement – I’m not a female...”
The above is a true story from one of our loyal customers
Read More about Who Should Take Collagen Supplement
Zammex Nutrition is built on the principle of Health Made Simple. Because of that we would never create a product that may have adverse side effects on our customers. However, it is vitally important that every person who chooses to take our products understands there may be side effects that aren’t anticipated. The good news is – Collagen as a dietary supplement has very few side effects. Because Zammex Nutrition’s products are derived from the best possible sources and remain totally pure, there are even fewer side effects. Here are a couple potential issues you should be aware of –
There’s always a chance that you may have a hypersensitivity reaction as an abnormal response of the immune system against certain foods, drugs and supplements. While rare, it’s very important that you make sure you can consume Collagen prior to purchasing. Also, please be aware of the Collagen you are purchasing and the animal from which it came. For example, Marine Collagen comes from naturally caught Tilapia and could trigger a fish allergen. Whereas the Multi Collagen Powder contains Collagen from avian sources. Please inform yourself by reading our blogs or asking questions prior to consumption.
Read More about Collagen Side Effects
Without question you want to choose a Collagen that has the fewest ingredients as possible. Purity Realized is one of Zammex’s founding principles and should be in the forefront of your mind when picking a product. Ensuring your Collagen is hydrolyzed will optimize its bioavailability (absorption and usage) so you are maximizing every scoop you ingest.
If you’ve ever supplemented protein powders you’ve seen some flavors beyond your wildest dreams – The sports nutrition companies are quite creative! They are also quite good at loading those products up with artificial flavors, sweeteners and other nonsense that does nothing but run riot on your digestive system. For Collagen, Health Made Simple, no sweeteners, no artificial flavors or colors. Stay pure and mix it with something that brings foods natural flavor to your palate.
The final prerequisite for a Collagen supplement is make sure it is Third Party Tested. The FDA doesn’t really have a handle on regulation, thus it’s important to look for UL, NSF or USP Certifications from these manufacturers. There are a lot of imitators out there without the proper certifications and they should be avoided. ZAMMEX makes an unflavored collagen peptides product the UL has certified.
Read More about How To Choose A Collagen Supplement
For more fish collagen manufacturerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.
Collagen comes in many forms, including liquid, capsules, and gummies, but powders stand out for their versatility as they are easy to blend into your water, coffee, or smoothies. With so many options, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you — and the best choice isn’t always the one that’s trending on your social media feed.
To help you navigate the noise, we’ve created this guide to the best collagen powders. We reviewed over a dozen top products, assessed their ingredient quality, and consulted registered dietitians to ensure our recommendations are backed by expertise. Whether you’re new to collagen or ready to upgrade your routine, this list is here to help you find the most effective and reliable options.
Everyday Health recommends speaking with your doctor before adding any supplement to your diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.
While collagen supplements are widely used, if you are pregnant, nursing, managing a health condition, or taking prescription medication, professional guidance is essential. If you have food allergies, it’s also necessary to check the label to ensure a product is safe.
Always consult your doctor to ensure a supplement fits your overall health plan.
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is our top choice for a flavorless, versatile collagen supplement. “It’s one of the best collagen supplements on the market,” says Nicole Ibarra, RD. “It’s tested by a third party to ensure it meets strict quality standards. … It’s also certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), making it a safe choice for athletes,” she adds. NSF certification ensures that the product has been thoroughly tested to confirm its purity and compliance with safety standards.
We love that Vital Proteins Collagen has no flavor and mixes easily into hot and cold liquids without clumping. It’s also dairy and gluten-free. Each serving contains 20 grams (g) of grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine type 1 and 3 collagen peptides (proteins broken down into smaller amino acids for easier digestion and absorption). There are multiple types of collagen in the body, but type 1 collagen is found in skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones, while type 3 collagen is in skin, muscle, and blood vessels and aids in connective tissue health.It’s important to note that collagen is derived from animal sources (cows in this product), so it isn’t suitable for vegans or vegetarians. However, for those looking for a high-quality, easy-to-add option, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a top choice.
This product is third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport, guaranteeing it’s free of harmful ingredients and meets the strict safety standards required for athletic use. It mixes well into beverages (although we noted it takes slightly longer to dissolve in hot liquids). The unflavored option is a good choice for those who prefer not to alter the taste of their drinks, but the berry flavor also provides an alternative for those seeking a touch of sweetness.
It’s important to note that Klean Collagen+C contains bovine-derived collagen, which makes it unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians. We also noticed it took longer to dissolve in hot liquids than some of the other options. Otherwise, if you’re an athlete and want to boost collagen synthesis with a high-quality, scientifically supported supplement, Klean Collagen+ C is a reliable option.
While the product has a slightly briny taste and smell, mixing it into smoothies or juices helps. It dissolves better in cold than hot liquids, but using an electric whisk helps. Amandean Marine Collagen’s sourcing quality and eco-conscious efforts make it a favorite for those seeking a non-bovine alternative.
We found the taste neutral and mixed best in hot liquids, but you could also add it to smoothies. We wouldn’t recommend using it in cold liquids without an electric whisk. Overall, Garden of Life offers a quality option if you’re looking for a comprehensive product to support gut health and immunity.
This product is NSF-certified, available in multiple flavors, and certified gluten-free. We like its neutral flavor and the fact that it easily mixes into hot beverages like coffee without altering the taste or texture. It also performs well in smoothies, adding beneficial protein without overpowering other ingredients.
It’s worth noting that this product doesn’t mix as well in cold liquids, leaving a thin white film on the top and a mild, milky flavor. Aside from this, the combination of quality, affordability, and effectiveness makes Sports Research Collagen Peptides a solid choice.
FullWell’s Unflavored Collagen Peptides Powder is our top choice for grass-fed collagen because of its commitment to high-quality sourcing and formulation. This powder is derived from 100 percent grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides targeted for health-conscious and environmentally mindful consumers.
FullWell, a dietitian-founded brand, was created to bring evidence-based, effective, and high-quality supplements to a broader audience. Their collagen powder delivers 15 grams of type 1 and 3 collagen per serving and dissolves completely in both hot and cold liquids without any gritty residue or clumping. FullWell’s product is third-party tested for ingredient accuracy, heavy metals, and the top 8 allergens (milk, egg, shellfish, fish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy).
The only potential drawback of FullWell’s Collagen Peptides Powder is the packaging, which we found could cause spills when first opening. However, given its quality sourcing and sustainable practices, this small downside is a minor trade-off for a grass-fed collagen supplement you can trust.
While 1st Phorm Collagen is quite sweet, which may not suit all tastes, it blends well in hot and cold liquids. It does contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener that some people may prefer to avoid. However, if you’re looking for a flavored collagen with a bit more sweetness, 1st Phorm has you covered.
Keep in mind that this product contains 5 mg of melatonin, which may cause grogginess for some people. If you plan on taking NativePath Collagen PM long-term, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor first to ensure it’s the right fit for you.
NativePath Collagen PM’s chocolate flavor tastes like lightly sweetened hot cocoa, thanks to monk fruit extract. For best results in cold or room-temperature liquids, use a blender or electric whisk. With flavors like chocolate, honey chamomile, and lemon, it’s a sweet and soothing nightcap, though the lack of an unflavored option may be a drawback for some.
Many of the collagen options on our list would work during pregnancy, but we selected Needed Prenatal Collagen Plus for its exceptional quality standards and dedicated focus on supporting pregnancy and postpartum needs. “Needed Prenatal Collagen is third-party tested, using only grass-fed bovine collagen with no additives, highlighting their commitment to simple and high-quality ingredients,” shares Kaytee Hadley, RDN, functional medicine dietitian and founder of Holistic Health and Wellness in Richmond, Virginia.
Collagen contains glycine, an amino acid essential for collagen synthesis and crucial for growth, healing, and repair, especially during the later stages of pregnancy. This supplement also provides an easy way to increase protein intake, which is critical for fetal growth, placental health, and reducing complications like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia — although it’s important to note that collagen is not a complete protein, which means you need to make sure you’re getting protein from other sources as well.Hadley cautions that supplementing with any product during pregnancy should warrant a conversation with your doctor, as there is limited research specifically on collagen supplementation during pregnancy. Once you get the okay from your doctor, Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein is a standout option for pregnant individuals seeking safe and effective collagen supplementation.
While Thorne Collagen Plus is undeniably high in quality, its complex formula reflects a higher price point compared with more basic collagen powders. Still, the unique and potent ingredients may justify this premium cost.
NOW Multi Collagen Protein is an evidence-informed option worth trying if you have occasional stiffness and discomfort. This gluten-free supplement is easy to mix into drinks or smoothies, however, it’s worth noting that some testers noted they could taste the collagen.
Perelel Cellular Hydration Powder offers a double-duty formula that provides electrolytes like magnesium and potassium for repletion with ingredients for skin health. While advertised as a supplement for postpartum hydration support, this sugar-free powder can benefit anyone.
Beyond supporting hydration, which is especially helpful postpartum, the added collagen and hyaluronic acid may promote skin elasticity and hydration. Hyaluronic acid is a molecule known for holding water in the skin. Andrews points to a meta-analysis published in that found taking collagen supplements — anywhere from 2.5 to 10 g daily — for 8 to 24 weeks can improve skin elasticity and hydration.Perelel Hydration Powder is sweetened with monk fruit, free from additives, and undergoes triple testing for safety, purity, and quality. It’s important to note that since this product is designed primarily to support hydration, the collagen dosing per serving of 3.5 g is lower than most standalone collagen powders (although in the meta-analysis above, doses as little as 2.5 g showed benefit). But for those seeking a multifunctional approach to postpartum recovery and hydration, Perelel offers an impressive product.Our review process for the best collagen supplements includes a combination of expert recommendations and hands-on testing. To create this list, we consulted five registered dietitians, including:
We also used the collagen in our own kitchens to evaluate how these supplements perform in everyday scenarios. From mixing a scoop into coffee, adding to smoothies, or stirring collagen into water, we examined critical factors like mixability, flavor, and texture.
As a registered dietitian, I bring both professional expertise and personal experience to the table. Since I use collagen daily as part of my routine, I’m able to critically evaluate these products from multiple angles — focusing not just on quality but also on whether they’re tasty and easy enough to become a part of your everyday routine.
When choosing a collagen supplement, look for one that prioritizes quality and aligns with your health goals. While collagen can support skin, hair, joints, and nails, its effectiveness will depend on ingredients, formulation, and overall quality. Consider the following key factors before buying:
Remember, while collagen supplements are widely used, they may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before incorporating new supplements into your routine.
“Collagen isn’t for everyone,” shares Hadley. “Individuals with autoimmune conditions such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis should be cautious about taking collagen supplements because it may worsen symptoms by causing the immune system to become overactive.”
Collagen supplements also may not be suitable for those with allergies and dietary restrictions as they can contain ingredients derived from fish, eggs, pigs, or cows. Additionally, some supplements are processed in facilities that handle dairy or gluten.
Finally, if you need to limit protein intake, such as for those with kidney disease, or if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any prescription medications, check with your doctor before adding collagen supplements.
Justin Laube, MD, is a board-certified integrative and internal medicine physician, a teacher, and a consultant with extensive expertise in integrative health, medical education, and trauma healing.
He graduated with a bachelor's in biology from the University of Wisconsin and a medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School. During medical school, he completed a graduate certificate in integrative therapies and healing practices through the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing. He completed his three-year residency training in internal medicine at the University of California in Los Angeles on the primary care track and a two-year fellowship in integrative East-West primary care at the UCLA Health Center for East-West Medicine.
He is currently taking a multiyear personal and professional sabbatical to explore the relationship between childhood trauma, disease, and the processes of healing. He is developing a clinical practice for patients with complex trauma, as well as for others going through significant life transitions. He is working on a book distilling the insights from his sabbatical, teaching, and leading retreats on trauma, integrative health, mindfulness, and well-being for health professionals, students, and the community.
Previously, Dr. Laube was an assistant clinical professor at the UCLA Health Center for East-West Medicine and the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, where he provided primary care and integrative East-West medical consultations. As part of the faculty, he completed a medical education fellowship and received a certificate in innovation in curriculum design and evaluation. He was the fellowship director at the Center for East-West Medicine and led courses for physician fellows, residents, and medical students.
Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special interests include women's health, gut health, autoimmunity, and reproductive health. Committed to the belief that health information should be accessible to all, she is passionate about empowering individuals to make positive changes for their well-being. Caitlin holds advanced training certificates in women's health and integrative and functional nutrition.
Caitlin was born and raised in northern California, where she resides with her family. An avid lover of sunshine and the outdoors, she finds joy in activities such as visiting the beach, exercising, cooking, and indulging in a good read. You can find Caitlin’s writing in a variety of outlets and brands, including Motherly, Nourish, Signos, Greatest, Pure Encapsulations, Abbott, and Clue, among others.
Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.
De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.
De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.
EDITORIAL SOURCESEveryday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.Resources