Collagen powder is hydrolysed collagen, a protein broken into short chains so it mixes into a drink. In New Zealand it is sold as a food or dietary supplement. To compare products, check the source, the grams of collagen in a serve, the other ingredients and the price per serve.
What should you compare?
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Source | Bovine, marine or another named source |
| Collagen per serve | Grams, not just scoops |
| Other ingredients | Flavour, sweetener, added vitamins |
| Allergens | Fish, if marine |
| Price | Cost per serve, not per pack |
Bovine or marine?
Bovine collagen comes from cattle and marine collagen from fish. If you avoid beef or have a fish allergy, that settles it. Otherwise compare taste, how it mixes and the cost per serve.
What does the research say?
A review of 26 trials and 1,721 people reported results for collagen supplements, while noting that results varied and larger trials are needed. A supplement label in New Zealand cannot state a therapeutic purpose, so treat strong promises on a pack with care. Our collagen and skincare peptides comparison covers the research in more detail.
How is it used?
Follow the serve on the label. Most powders are stirred into a hot or cold drink. Check with your doctor before starting a supplement if you are pregnant, take medication or have a health condition.
Common questions
Is marine collagen better than bovine collagen?
Neither is settled as better. They differ mainly in source, so the choice usually comes down to diet, allergies, taste and price per serve.
Can vegetarians take collagen powder?
No. Collagen powder comes from animals or fish. Products sold as vegan collagen are not the same ingredient, so read the label.
Is collagen powder a complete protein?
No. Collagen is low in some essential amino acids, so it does not replace other protein foods in your diet.