Marine Collagen vs Bovine Collagen – Which Is Better?
Marine vs Bovine Collagen
Collagen, often dubbed the "fountain of youth," has gained immense popularity for its potential benefits in promoting skin health, joint function, and overall well-being.
Always on the lookout for new supplements, I’ve seen a tripling of options for collagen peptide and marine collagen type supplements in the last year or so.
Among the various types of collagen supplements, two of the most commonly used are Marine Collagen and Bovine Collagen. But which is better? Here, we will briefly delve into what these collagens are, their benefits, sourcing methods, sustainability, and provide a verdict on which might be the superior choice.
Understanding the Three Types of Collagen
Bovine vs Marine Collagen
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and serves as a vital component of our connective tissues, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
There are over 20 different types of collagen, but the three most common types are:
1. Type I Collagen: This type is the most prevalent in the human body and is found in skin, bones, tendons, and teeth. It provides tensile strength to these structures and is associated with skin elasticity and hydration.
2. Type II Collagen: Mainly found in cartilage, Type II collagen is crucial for joint health and function. It contributes to joint cushioning and mobility.
3. Type III Collagen: Often found alongside Type I collagen, Type III collagen is present in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. It plays a role in maintaining the structural integrity of these tissues.
What is Marine Collagen?
Marine Collagen is derived from fish and marine sources, primarily sourced from fish skin, scales, and bones. It's known for its high bioavailability, meaning it is easily absorbed and utilised by the body.
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Marine Collagen is predominantly Type I collagen, which is abundant in human skin and plays a vital role in skin health.
Benefits of Marine Collagen
Skin Health: Marine collagen is revered for its potential to enhance skin elasticity, hydration, and overall texture.
Joint Support: It may help in relieving joint pain and improving joint mobility.
Bioavailability: Marine collagen is easily absorbed and utilised by the body.
Marine Collagen has also been a subject of scientific study. A study published in the "Journal of Medicinal Food" (Liu et al., 2016) investigated the effects of marine collagen on skin properties. The results suggested that marine collagen supplementation improved skin hydration, elasticity, and roughness.
Sourcing: Marine collagen is typically sourced from sustainable fishing practices, utilising fish by-products that might otherwise go to waste. This makes it an eco-friendly choice.
Marine Collagen Supplement Options
Marine collagen is available in various forms, including powder, capsules, and liquid. Here are my top three recommendations for Marine Collagen supplements:
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen: This popular brand offers high-quality Marine Collagen sourced from wild-caught fish. It's known for its purity and effectiveness in promoting skin and joint health. This is one of the most popular marine collagen supplements, and is $44AUD for a 210g container.
Sports Research Marine Collagen: Sports Research Marine Collagen is derived from non-GMO, wild-caught fish. It's hydrolysed for maximum bioavailability and often comes in a convenient liquid form. The Sports Research Marine Collagen is $66AUD for a 340g container.
Neocell Marine Collagen: Neocell offers Marine Collagen that's Non-GMO and gluten-free. It's often lauded for its purity and potential benefits for hair, skin, and nails. This product is $44AUD for 120 capsules of 2000mg strength.
What is Bovine Collagen?
Bovine Collagen is sourced from cows, specifically from their hides and bones. It is rich in both Type I and Type III collagen, making it suitable for promoting skin health and the structural integrity of organs and tissues.
Benefits of Bovine Collagen
Skin and Hair Health: It supports skin elasticity, hydration, and can boost hair health.
Joint Health: It aids in reducing joint pain and increasing mobility.
Muscle Recovery: Bovine collagen may aid in muscle repair and growth.
Scientific research has also explored the benefits of Bovine Collagen. A study published in the "Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology" (Schwartz & Park, 2012) found that collagen peptides, including bovine collagen, improved skin elasticity and hydration.
Sourcing: Bovine collagen is typically derived from cowhide, which is often a by-product of the meat industry. Conscientious sourcing practices can mitigate concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact.
Bovine Collagen Peptide Supplement Options
Bovine collagen is available in various forms, including powders, capsules, and collagen-infused foods. Here are my top three recommendations for Bovine Collagen supplements:
Great Lakes Gelatin Collagen Hydrolysate: Known for its purity and high quality, Great Lakes Gelatin offers a Bovine Collagen Hydrolysate that is easy to incorporate into your daily routine. The Great Lakes collagen was actually the first ever collagen peptide product I tried, and it is perfect to add into smoothies. It is $48.95AUD for a 454g container.
Primal Collective Grass Fed Collagen Peptides: This brand provides one of the most quality, quick dissolving bovine sourced collagen peptide products which is keto, kosher, paleo-friendly, halal and gluten free. The Primal Collective beef collagen is $49AUD per 454g container.
Bulletproof Collagen Peptides: Bulletproof offers Collagen peptides and protein sourced from grass-fed cows. It's unflavoured, making it versatile for various recipes and beverages. They also offer collagen peptide bars. The Bulletproof Collagen Peptides are a little bit more expensive than a lot of other options, at $60AUD for a 240g container. The Bulletproof Collagen Bars are $84AUD for a 12 pack, but are an amazing healthy snack option incorporating collagen peptides.
Sustainability - Which is More Eco-Friendly?
In terms of sustainability, Marine Collagen has an advantage. The marine collagen industry often utilises fish parts that would otherwise be discarded, reducing waste and making efficient use of existing resources. This aligns with the principles of a circular economy.
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Bovine Collagen, sourced from cows, raises concerns about animal welfare and its environmental impact. Cows require extensive resources, such as land, water, and feed, which can lead to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. However, conscientious sourcing from sustainable and well-managed farms can address these concerns to a certain extent.
Marine collagen sourcing is often considered a more sustainable and eco-friendly option than bovine collagen for several reasons:
Utilisation of Byproducts: Marine collagen is typically derived from fish parts that are byproducts of the seafood industry, such as fish skin, scales, and bones. These parts are often discarded or considered waste. By utilising these otherwise wasted materials, the marine collagen industry reduces waste and maximises the efficient use of available resources, aligning with the principles of a circular economy.
“Biomass derived from the activities of fish-processing industries and fisheries (fish and sea urchin wastes, undersized fish and by-catch organisms such as jellyfish, sharks, starfish, sponges) might become an important, yet underexploited, source of collagen. The use of discarded and underused biomass will contribute to the development of a sustainable pipeline to obtain collagen with a significantly reduced environmental impact.”
Preservation of Marine Ecosystems: Unlike some land-based animal farming practices, marine collagen production doesn't require the extensive use of land, water, or feed. This minimises the potential for deforestation, habitat destruction, and overuse of freshwater resources. Additionally, responsible marine collagen sourcing can have a lower environmental impact compared to land-based animal agriculture.
Sustainable Fishing Practices: Many marine collagen producers are committed to sustainable fishing practices. This involves adhering to guidelines that help maintain fish populations at healthy and stable levels. Sustainable fishing practices reduce the risk of overfishing and contribute to the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: Marine collagen production generally has a lower carbon footprint compared to land-based livestock farming. The transportation and energy requirements for marine collagen sourcing are often more energy-efficient, as marine sources can be closer to processing facilities.
Traceability and Accountability: Some marine collagen brands prioritise traceability and accountability in their sourcing methods. They work closely with suppliers to ensure ethical and sustainable fishing practices. These efforts contribute to greater transparency in the sourcing of marine collagen.
It's important to note that not all marine collagen products are equal in terms of sustainability. When choosing a marine collagen supplement, it's advisable to look for certifications or labels that indicate responsible and sustainable sourcing, such as MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) or ASC (Aquaculture Stewardship Council) certifications. These certifications ensure that the marine collagen product meets rigorous sustainability standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Marine collagen is primarily derived from fish and is rich in Type I collagen, while bovine collagen comes from cows and contains both Type I and III collagen.
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Both types are beneficial, but marine collagen, being rich in Type I collagen, is often preferred for skin health.
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Marine collagen is generally seen as more eco-friendly due to sustainable sourcing practices, while bovine collagen raises concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact.
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Yes, both types support joint health, but bovine collagen's Type I and III mix might offer more comprehensive benefits for joints and muscles.
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Considerations include personal health goals, dietary restrictions, environmental impact, and the specific types of collagen each supplement provides.
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Collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity, joint health, and overall well-being.
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While generally safe, individuals with allergies or specific medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional.
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Effects can vary, but many people notice changes within a few weeks to months of consistent use.
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Collagen supplements may help reduce the visible signs of aging by improving skin elasticity and hydration.
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Yes, foods like bone broth, fish, chicken, eggs, and certain dairy products contain collagen.
Verdict: Bovine Collagen as the Superior Choice
While both Marine and Bovine Collagen offer numerous benefits, my personal preference leans toward Bovine Collagen.
The balanced combination of Type I and Type III collagen in Bovine Collagen makes it a better all round choice for overall well-being, including skin, hair, joints, and muscle health. My top pick would be the Great Lakes Collagen Hydrolysate Powder, which is one of the most popular and well renowned bovine collagen supplements.
I appreciate that Marine collagen may be a slightly more environmentally conscious and sustainably sourced type of peptide supplement but, both Marine and Bovine Collagen offer valuable benefits, and the choice between them depends on your personal preferences, values, and specific wellness goals.
It's crucial to research and select collagen products that align with your needs and ethical considerations. Ultimately, the "best" collagen is the one that supports your individual well-being journey.
