What it is: This is a marine collagen powder made in India. It combines hydrolysed fish collagen with hyaluronic acid, biotin and vitamin C, and you mix it into a drink each day. The exact amount of each ingredient per scoop, the pack weight and the flavour are given on the pack.
What’s in this marine collagen powder
- Marine collagen peptides: collagen taken from fish skin or scales and hydrolysed, meaning broken down into smaller peptides. Hydrolysed collagen dissolves in cold or warm liquid.
- Hyaluronic acid: a substance found naturally in skin and connective tissue. It is a popular addition to beauty supplements.
- Biotin: vitamin B7, a water-soluble B vitamin.
- Vitamin C: ascorbic acid or a related form.
Flavoured versions of collagen powders usually also contain flavourings, an acidity regulator and a sweetener. Check the ingredients list on your pack, along with the amount per serving of each nutrient and its % NRV (nutrient reference value).
What the nutrients do
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the body. It is found in skin, tendons, cartilage and bone. Collagen powders are a convenient way to add these peptides to your diet. Marine collagen is often chosen by people who do not eat beef or pork products.
Two of the ingredients carry authorised GB health claims:
- Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin. It also contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress and to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
- Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and normal skin.
Collagen itself and hyaluronic acid do not have authorised health claims in the UK.
How to take it
Follow the serving size and directions on the pack. Collagen powders are typically taken once a day, stirred into water, juice or a smoothie. Unflavoured versions can go into coffee or porridge. Mix until fully dissolved and drink straight away. To work out how long the pack lasts, divide the net weight by the serving size on the label.
Who it suits — and who should check first
It suits adults who want a convenient powder that combines collagen with vitamin C and biotin, and who are happy to take a fish-derived product. It is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
- Do not take it if you have a fish allergy, because marine collagen comes from fish.
- If you take other supplements that contain biotin, check your total intake. High-dose biotin can interfere with some laboratory blood tests, so tell your doctor if you are due a blood test.
- If the powder is flavoured, check the label for sweeteners if you avoid them.
How it compares
Bovine collagen (from cattle) is typically cheaper and more widely available. Marine collagen is chosen by pescatarians and people avoiding beef. A plain collagen powder lets you choose your own vitamin C source, such as amla. A combined formula like this one puts collagen, vitamin C, biotin and hyaluronic acid in a single scoop.
Common questions
Why is vitamin C added to collagen?
Vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin. That is why the two are commonly combined.
Does marine collagen taste of fish?
Good-quality hydrolysed marine collagen is close to neutral. Flavoured versions mask any faint taste.
Can I add it to hot drinks?
Collagen peptides dissolve in warm drinks. Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, though, so warm drinks are better than boiling ones.
Is it suitable for pescatarians?
Yes, because the collagen comes from fish. Check the label to confirm that the other ingredients suit you.
Read more: Collagen and amla 12-week skin routine · Browse Skin Glow
Food supplement. Not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Keep out of reach of young children. Store in a cool, dry place. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or under medical supervision, consult a healthcare professional before use.
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