Marine collagen

What is marine collagen?

Marine collagen, also sold as fish collagen, is made from the skin and scales of fish, for example wild cod. It consists mainly of type I collagen. For food supplements it is almost always hydrolysed – broken down into short peptides – so that the powder dissolves easily in drinks.

Marine collagen is an alternative to bovine collagen, for instance for people who avoid beef or follow a pescatarian diet. It is not suitable for a vegan diet.

Collagen from fish or beef?

• Fish: mainly type I, usually neutral in taste, often positioned as a premium product.
• Beef: type I and III, widely available and often cheaper per gram.

Both sources provide protein. Which one you choose depends mainly on your diet and your preferences.

Our range

• Powders: Osavi Marine Collagen Wild Cod (grapefruit or lemon), NeoCell Advanced Marine Collagen Peptides unflavoured, KIKI Health Pure Marine Collagen, Nordic Naturals Marine Collagen (strawberry), Trec Nutrition Collagen Marine (wild berry) and OstroVit Marine Collagen.
• Sticks, liquids and capsules: Applied Nutrition Marine Collagen Sticks and Liquid Marine Collagen, KIKI Health Pure Marine Collagen with 450 mg per capsule.
• Combinations: OstroVit Marine Collagen with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, Essensey Marine Collagen Premium Formula+, Allnutrition Collagen-Beauty Fish and ZOE Nutrition Marine Collagen.

Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin. We do not advertise collagen or hyaluronic acid themselves with any promised effects.

What to look for

• Origin: wild-caught or farmed, and which fish – reputable brands state this.
• Collagen per serving: powders provide several grams, capsules only a fraction of that.
• Allergens: marine collagen is not suitable for people with a fish allergy.
• Extras: sweeteners, flavourings, vitamins – read the ingredients list.

Follow the dose on the label. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet.

Frequently asked questions

Does marine collagen taste of fish?

Good hydrolysed powders are largely neutral in taste. If you want to be sure, choose a flavoured version.

Is marine collagen the same as fish collagen?

Yes, both terms are used in shops for collagen made from fish.

Which marine collagen is the best?

We do not hand out awards. Compare the amount of collagen per serving, the origin of the fish and the extras instead.