Different Origins, Shared Purpose

Marine collagen isn't the only type of collagen supplement available. Here's how it compares with other common sources.

If you've ever compared collagen supplements, you've probably noticed that they often mention where the collagen comes from. Marine collagen, bovine collagen, porcine collagen and chicken collagen are among the most common options available.

Does the source really matter?

The answer is yes, but perhaps not for the reasons many marketing campaigns suggest. The origin of collagen influences its natural composition, dietary suitability and manufacturing process, but it does not automatically make one source superior to another.

Understanding the differences can help you make a more informed decision.

What is marine collagen?

Marine collagen is collagen extracted from marine animals, most commonly fish. It is naturally rich in Type I collagen, the main collagen found in human skin, tendons and bones.

Most marine collagen supplements contain hydrolysed collagen peptides, making them easy to mix into drinks and foods.

Where do other collagen sources come from?

The most common alternatives include:

- Bovine collagen, sourced from cattle, usually skin and hides.

- Porcine collagen, obtained from pigs.

- Chicken collagen, commonly extracted from cartilage and connective tissue.

Each source naturally contains different proportions of collagen types.

How are they made?

Regardless of origin, collagen supplements are generally produced through a similar process.

Collagen-rich tissues are cleaned, extracted and then hydrolysed into smaller collagen peptides. These peptides dissolve more easily and are more readily digested than whole collagen fibres.

The exact manufacturing process varies between companies.

How do collagen types differ?

Type I collagen is the most abundant collagen in the human body and is especially important in skin.

Marine collagen consists mainly of Type I collagen.

Bovine collagen naturally contains both Type I and Type III collagen, which are found in skin, muscles and blood vessels.

Chicken collagen contains higher amounts of Type II collagen, which is found primarily in cartilage.

While these differences are scientifically recognised, researchers are still investigating whether the source itself significantly changes health outcomes when collagen is consumed.

What does the science say?

Strong evidence

Systematic reviews suggest that oral hydrolysed collagen supplementation may improve skin hydration and elasticity in healthy adults.

Importantly, many clinical studies investigate hydrolysed collagen in general rather than comparing marine and bovine collagen directly.

Current evidence does not clearly demonstrate that one source consistently outperforms another for skin health.

Limited evidence

Some research suggests collagen supplementation may support:

- joint comfort

- nail strength

- hair appearance

- exercise recovery

However, more independent, high-quality studies are needed, particularly those directly comparing different collagen sources.

Early evidence

Scientists continue exploring whether different collagen peptides behave differently after digestion.

This area remains under active investigation, and there is currently no clear consensus that marine collagen is inherently more effective simply because of its origin.

Not yet proven

Current evidence does not support claims that:

- marine collagen is always superior to bovine collagen

- one collagen source works for everyone

- collagen source alone determines results

- expensive collagen is automatically better

Marketing often presents these ideas with more certainty than current research allows.

How could collagen fit into a daily routine?

Collagen supplements are commonly mixed into coffee, smoothies, yoghurt or porridge due to their neutral flavour.

People may choose one source over another because of dietary preferences, allergies, cultural considerations or personal values rather than proven differences in effectiveness.

A balanced diet, sufficient protein intake and vitamin C remain important for normal collagen formation within the body.

What should you look for?

Rather than focusing only on where collagen comes from, consider:

- hydrolysed collagen peptides

- transparent ingredient lists

- realistic health claims

- allergen information

- quality manufacturing

- independent testing where available

Origin is one factor among many.

Safety

Marine collagen should be avoided by people with fish allergies.

Individuals with allergies to beef, pork or chicken should also consider the source of collagen they choose.

Anyone who is pregnant, breastfeeding or managing a medical condition should seek advice from a healthcare professional before starting supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is marine collagen better than bovine collagen?

Current evidence does not clearly show that one is universally better. Both provide collagen peptides.

Which collagen contains Type I collagen?

Marine collagen is naturally rich in Type I collagen, while bovine collagen also contains significant amounts of Type I alongside Type III.

Is marine collagen suitable for vegetarians?

No. It is derived from fish.

Why do manufacturers mention collagen source?

The source influences collagen type, allergens and dietary suitability.

Should I choose collagen based only on origin?

Probably not. Transparency, ingredient quality and evidence-based claims are all important considerations.

Final thoughts

Marine collagen and bovine collagen share more similarities than differences. Both provide collagen peptides, both are widely used in nutritional supplements and both continue to be studied by researchers.

Instead of asking which source is "best," a more useful question may be whether a company communicates honestly about its ingredients and avoids making claims that go beyond the evidence.

Understanding where collagen comes from is valuable, but understanding what science actually supports is even more important.

References

1. de Miranda RB, Weimer P, Rossi RC. Effects of hydrolyzed collagen supplementation on skin aging: a systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Dermatology.

2. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33742704/

3. Pu SY, et al. Oral collagen supplementation for skin health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. 2023. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36986257/

4. NIH MedlinePlus. Collagen. <https://medlineplus.gov/

5. World Health Organization. Healthy Diet Fact Sheet. <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/healthy-diet