Why choose marine versus bovine collagen sources?
Written by
Robert Kelly
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Choosing between marine and bovine collagen should be based on their differences, not which option is better or superior. Marine collagen is derived from fish scales and skin, while bovine collagen is derived from grass-fed cattle. Both contain a host of benefits but differ in their peptide structure and concentrations of type. Whichever option you choose should depend on your specific health goals and dietary preferences.
Marine Collagen
- Smaller peptide size for potentially faster absorption
- Higher bioavailability in preliminary studies
- Primarily Type I collagen for skin benefits
- Ideal for pescatarians and seafood-tolerant individuals
Bovine Collagen
- Rich in both Type I and III collagen varieties
- Superior bone density support in clinical research
- Wider availability and lower production costs
- Preferred source for red meat consumers
Critical Considerations
- Both require NSF/USP certification for heavy metals
- Allergy profiles differ significantly between sources
- No efficacy advantage proven in peer-reviewed studies
- Sustainability varies by fishing/cattle practices
The differences in absorption of the sources are often overstated. The smaller peptide sizes of marine collagen may enable quicker entry into the bloodstream. Still, both sources are effective in stimulating collagen production. The clinical results for skin hydration have a negligible difference. For clients, I would prefer that they choose the protein source based on how it fits into their diet, rather than its absorption.
Pinpoint your exact benefits when it comes to your collagen pick. I'd choose marine collagen for targeted skin hydration improvements. I'd select bovine if you wanted skin and bone benefits. Regardless of your collagen source, third-party testing is important. I've had both categories of brands fail heavy metal tests.
Make sure you consider allergy and sustainability considerations closely. For individuals with shellfish allergies, marine collagen is regarded as a potential risk. For individuals with red meat intolerances, bovine sources are potentially a red flag. Be sure to check sourcing transparency for social impact and environmental effects. The final decision should be based on your health priorities and moral values.
Read the full article: Top 10 Benefits Collagen Supplements Revealed
