Collagen hydrolysate is one of the most widely used food supplements in Europe – and for good reason. But what exactly is it, how is it produced, and what should you look for when choosing a quality product? In this article, we break it all down.
What is Collagen?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is a structural protein found in connective tissue, skin, bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. The body produces collagen naturally, but this production changes over time as part of the normal ageing process.
There are several types of collagen – the most common being Type I, II and III. Type I is the most prevalent and is found in skin, tendons, bones and teeth. Type II is primarily found in cartilage.
What is Collagen Hydrolysate?
Collagen hydrolysate (also called hydrolysed collagen or collagen peptides) is collagen that has been broken down into smaller fragments called peptides through a process called hydrolysis. This process uses water and enzymes to cleave the long collagen protein chains into shorter, more easily soluble units.
The result is a fine, white powder that dissolves quickly in both cold and hot liquids – with a neutral taste and no smell.
How is Collagen Hydrolysate Made?
Collagen hydrolysate is typically derived from animal sources:
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Bovine collagen – from cattle hides or bones
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Marine collagen – from fish skin or scales
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Porcine collagen – from pig skin
The raw material is cleaned, processed and then hydrolysed using enzymes. The resulting peptides are filtered, dried and milled into a fine powder. The molecular weight of the peptides is measured in Dalton (Da) – a lower Dalton value means smaller peptide fragments.
Dalton Value – What Does It Mean?
The Dalton value indicates the molecular weight of the collagen peptides. Common values range from ~1,000 Da to ~5,000 Da. Smaller peptides (lower Dalton) dissolve more easily and are absorbed more readily in the digestive tract. CollMeCell offers collagen hydrolysate with ~1,000 Da and ~1,500 Da peptide sizes for optimal solubility.
Marine vs. Bovine Collagen – What’s the Difference?
| Feature |
Marine Collagen |
Bovine Collagen |
| Source |
Fish (skin/scales) |
Cattle (hide/bones) |
| Collagen Type |
Primarily Type I |
Type I & III |
| Molecular Weight |
Typically lower |
Varies |
| Suitable for |
Pescatarians |
General use |
How to Use Collagen Hydrolysate
Collagen hydrolysate powder is very versatile:
- Stir into water, juice or coffee
- Add to smoothies or protein shakes
- Mix into yoghurt, oatmeal or soups
- Use in baking (it is heat-stable)
Always follow the dosage instructions on the product packaging.
What to Look for When Buying Collagen Hydrolysate
Not all collagen supplements are equal. Here are the key quality criteria to check:
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Origin & traceability – know where the raw material comes from
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Production standard – look for GMP-certified manufacturing
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Lab testing – independent testing for purity, heavy metals and microbiology
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No unnecessary additives – avoid fillers, artificial flavours and preservatives
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Dalton value – lower values indicate smaller, more soluble peptides
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Transparency – clear ingredient list and manufacturer information
Important Notice
Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced and varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Keep out of reach of children. Store in a cool, dry place.
CollMeCell Collagen – Made in Germany
CollMeCell collagen hydrolysate is produced in Germany under GMP-certified conditions and independently lab-tested for purity and quality. Available as powder (500g, 1000g, 4000g) and capsules – in both marine and bovine variants.
Browse our collagen range →
