Explore the Differences Between Marine, Bovine, Vegan & Type II Collagen

Collagen is a fantastic nutrient for optimizing whole body health and longevity, providing us with essential amino acids that many modern diets lack. And yet, not all collagen is created equal. At Ancient + Brave, we source the highest quality ingredients to ensure that all of our products are the best on the market. With so many variations out there, it can be overwhelming and confusing as to which collagen to choose – so we wrote this guide to help break it down.

What sources of collagen are available?

Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides can be obtained from many different animal sources. Studies have looked at everything from sheep, pigs, chickens, ducks and rabbit skin – however the most preferred sources to use as a functional food or supplements are bovine (cow) or marine (fish) for Type I Collagen and chicken for Type II Collagen. The collagen is usually extracted from bones, skin (hide) or scales of the animal depending on the brand and what type of collagen you are utilizing.

Bovine Collagen

Bovine Collagen can be extracted from various parts of the animal, including hide, bone and cartilage. At Ancient + Brave, we prioritise sourcing collagen that meets our high standards for purity, traceability, and sustainability.

By using by-products, like hide from the beef industry, we contribute to a more circular and responsible supply chain, reducing waste and making use of materials that would otherwise be discarded. Sourcing our Bovine Collagen from within the EU also helps reduce air miles and ensures alignment with strict animal welfare, antibiotic and hormone regulations. Every batch is rigorously tested for quality and safety.

The source of collagen also impacts the particular ‘type’ found in each product. There are 28 different types of collagen in the human body.  

Our True Collagen product is derived from hides containing mainly Type I Collagen, but also naturally contains a bit of Type III Collagen (the younger the animal, the more Type III is present). However, after hydrolysis it’s impossible to analyze the amount of collagen peptides that originated from Type I and the amount that originated from Type III. As we can’t quantify it, we focus on Type I, but it is highly likely you are gaining benefits from both types.

Type III is found in areas of the body such as the gut, however this hasn’t been widely tested through supplementation and the science is still very new. Bovine Collagen is often the choice for those looking to support their blood vessels,organs and gut as both Types I and III are found in the intestinal lining and so it may be beneficial in maintenance and repair (2). 

Importantly, Type I Collagen is the most abundant and strongest type that is found in the human body, and is the most clinically tested, meaning it works the most effectively to heal and rebuild tissues across the whole body. 

 The amino acid profiles of bovine and marine collagen differ slightly. Bovine collagen tends to be higher in glycine and hydroxyproline, amino acids important for skin structure and muscle repair. Marine collagen, while also rich in glycine, typically contains more alanine, which supports recovery. While both forms offer excellent bioavailability, the majority of clinical research to date has focused on bovine collagen.

Bovine Collagen is also free from the top 14 major allergens making it a preferred product for those especially with shellfish or fish allergies. Ancient + Brave's True Collagen is the highest quality: 100% Bovine Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides.

Marine Collagen

One of the biggest pros of marine collagen is that its primary form, Type I collagen, closely resembles the structure of the most abundant collagen type found in the human body, especially in skin, bones, and connective tissue. This, along with its generally smaller peptide size, may support efficient absorption and skin health benefits. However, both marine and bovine collagens contain the key amino acids that make up human collagen. We have also ensured that in terms of molecular weight, both our True and Wild Collagen are approximately 5000 daltons, the optimal weight for absorption according to studies. 

This small particle size simply allows quicker and easier uptake and transportation of the collagen peptides to the skin, bones and joints for the production of new collagen (3). Some also believe that the molecular structure of Marine Collagen makes it easier to digest, which may be an important factor if you have any digestive issues or have experienced any digestive discomfort with other collagen sources. 

Historically, Marine Collagen has been a favorite in the beauty industry for its impact on skin health. Rich in the amino acid Hydroxyproline, an essential component of skin and other connective tissues, Marine Collagen has been shown in studies to improve skin elasticity, hydration and reduce the appearance of wrinkles (4), however these studies haven’t yet compared the results with a similar quality bovine collagen source, which also shows great benefits for the skin.  

As with Bovine Collagen, Marine sources are also considered environmentally sustainable. It creates even less greenhouse gas emissions and the majority of the by-products from fish production that usually become waste can instead be used for collagen peptide products. 

From a dietary perspective, marine collagen is also a great choice for those on a pescatarian or halal diet. Our new Wild Collagen provides 100% Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides from responsibly sourced, MSC-certified wild-caught fish in icy regions.

Vegan

As plants do not create their own collagen, there isn’t a vegan source of pure collagen per se – however by supplementing with amino acids specific to collagen and Vitamin C for the synthesis of collagen, we can use this as a ‘vegan’ substitute. 

The long amino acid chains that help to form the large collagen molecule are mainly made up of 5 key amino acids (although others do feature). These are Glycine, Proline, Hydroxyproline, Arginine and Alanine. Therefore, instead of using a direct animal source of collagen peptides, good quality vegan ranges contain generous amounts of all 5 of these amino acids, from vegan or fermented sources. Vitamin C is a key cofactor for the enzymes that build new collagen molecules, therefore products which feature this as an additional extra will further support the body in the natural production of collagen. 

Whilst there is yet to be robust comparative studies of vegan collagen against marine or bovine in terms of health benefits and outcomes, the key attribute of a vegan version is undoubtedly its environmental impact. When the vegan amino acids are sourced and produced in a responsible way, there is an environmental benefit as well as an animal welfare advantage.

Type II Collagen

While perhaps less recognised in the realm of wellness, Type II collagen stands as a remarkably intelligent molecule specific to joint health.

Within the body, Type II collagen takes centre stage as the primary component of cartilage. Cartilage's resilient yet adaptable nature is pivotal in cushioning and safeguarding joints, ensuring resilience against stressors. As this framework undergoes natural wear and tear, it impacts mobility and activity levels significantly. The breakdown of cartilage stands as a key contributor to joint discomfort, ailments, and functional decline over time. This is where Type II supplementation steps in.

Our Noble Collagen showcases Type II collagen, ethically sourced from chicken sternum cartilage. Structurally distinct from type I powders, these collagen molecules are not hydrolysed but maintain their 'undenatured' or 'native' state. Essentially, this means they exert their effects without requiring breakdown.

Unlike powdered forms of Type I Collagen, the most effective delivery method for undenatured Type II Collagen is in capsule form – this ensures the preservation of its structural integrity, which is paramount for efficacy in promoting joint health. It works to help to train the immune system to rebuild new cartilage, thereby supporting mobility and reducing joint discomfort.

As joints are composed of more than just cartilage, Type I still plays a role in protecting and supporting overall joint health. For this reason we recommend using both types I & II together to optimize the benefits.

Let’s summarize 

Similarities:

• Associated health benefits from supplementing - all sources are very similar (improved skin health, healthy hair, joint and bone support, muscle repair)
  
• Flavourless 
• Odourless

• Easy to use within drinks

Bovine: True Collagen

• A hero product for whole body health⁺
• Naturally found in skin, joints and bones⁺
• Effortlessly nourishes from within⁺
• Helps to improve skin texture, elasticity and hydration*
• Responsibly sourced from EU herds raised without growth-hormones and routine antibiotics
• Neutral taste and odor, highly dissolvable
• No fillers or additives (free from top 14 major allergens), Og sugar, non GMO
• Beautifully pure and highly bioavailable
• Preferred product for those with shellfish/fish allergies
  

Marine

• A hero product for whole body health⁺
• Naturally found in skin, cartilage and bones⁺
• Effortlessly nourishes from within⁺
• Supports the structure of joints and skin⁺
• Responsibly sourced from MSC-certified wild-caught Alaskan Pollock
• Neutral taste and odor, highly dissolvable
• No fillers or additives, Og Sugar, non GMO
• Beautifully pure and highly bioavailable
• Suitable for pescetarians or halal diets
  

Vegan

• Contains the vegan versions of the amino acids found in animal derived collagen
• Provides a source of vitamin C - a key cofactor in collagen production

Type II Collagen

• Type II Collagen to support strong, mobile and healthy joints⁺
• Aids joint health and comfort⁺
• Supports active lifestyles by promoting joint mobility⁺
• ‘Undenatured’ not hydrolyzed meaning capsules offer optimal delivery⁺
• Smaller doses required compared to Type I
• Responsibly sourced from chickens in the EU
• Works synergistically with Type I for comprehensive joint health⁺

• In capsule form, not a powder

How do you choose?

Ultimately, the answer to this question will vary from person to person. Whilst collagen in any format is no doubt an amazing health optimizing nutrient, your personal choice on whether you will benefit most from marine, bovine, vegan-sourced or indeed Type II Collagen, will depend on many factors including; dietary preferences, allergies, intolerances, health needs and also lifestyle.

What is important however, is to find a high-quality supplement that delivers results, whilst also ticking the boxes to ensure you take it consistently and can integrate it effortlessly into your daily routine.

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6891674/
2. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9198822/
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7230273/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32799362/