What is Marine Collagen?

First things first, let’s talk about collagen as a whole. Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein; it’s made up of amino acids glycine, proline, hydroxyproline and arginine.

While we’re able to create our own collagen, our body’s natural collagen production begins to decline around the age of 25. This is where Vital Proteins® comes in. We offer an array of different types of collagen, including our best-selling bovine-sourced Collagen Peptides. Follow a pescatarian-friendly diet? No worries! We also carry marine-based collagen powders to complement your lifestyle.

What’s the Difference Between Collagen and Marine Collagen?

There’s only one key difference between our Collagen Peptides and Marine Collagen. But first, let’s recap their similarities: they’re both powders that are easily soluble in liquids, are unflavoured and odourless, and boast the same types of collagen – more on that in a few! Is it any surprise they’re two of our all-time best sellers?

As for what sets them apart, it all boils down to sourcing. Our Collagen Peptides are sourced from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hide from Brazil, while our Marine Collagen is sourced from non-GMO, wild-caught white fish caught off the coast of Alaska. The latter is a favourite among those following a pescatarian-friendly diet.

What Type Of Collagen is Marine Collagen?

Just like our bovine-based Collagen Peptides, our Marine Collagen is rich in types I and III collagen. Keep reading for a breakdown of what these types are.

Type I

Type I collagen is the most prevalent type of collagen in the body. This is the type of collagen you’re likely most familiar with, as it’s a main player in preserving the levels of collagen in your skin, hair or nails. Type I collagen is also a major component of the tendons, organs and bones.

Type III

The third most commonly found type of collagen, type III, is generally found in reticular fibres, such as in the bone marrow. It’s usually found alongside type I collagen in the body.

How is Marine Collagen Made?

Specifically referring to Vital Proteins Marine Collagen, we source this pescatarian-friendly offering from wild-caught, non-GMO white fish, caught off the coast of Alaska.

We believe in whole animal nutrition to reduce waste and improve sustainability. Our Marine Collagen is sourced from the skin and scales of fish, natural by-products of the seafood industry that would otherwise be discarded.

Once the scales or skins have been soaked, cleaned and softened, they’re ready for collagen extraction. Purified water is heated to further extract the collagen from the scales or skins. Once the collagen is extracted from the hides, water and proteolytic enzymes hydrolyse it (aka break it down) into smaller protein chains called collagen peptides.

Using a burst of pressurised hot air, the hydrolysed collagen peptides are spray-dried into a fine, odourless powder. Each batch of collagen is then lab-tested to ensure quality and safety before being placed in a BPA/BPS-free canister.

Is Marine Collagen Good for You?

Just like bovine-based collagen, Marine Collagen is a great supplement. Collagen – no matter the source – is a great addition to your diet if you’re looking to up your collagen intake.

Our Education Coordinator, Olivia Pelaez, adds Marine Collagen to her routine – the product is a big part of her morning and afternoon rituals! She’s also reaped collagen’s well-known beauty properties, telling us: