From where we source our collagen to whether or not vegan collagen is readily available to the public, prospective customers are rightfully curious about the key ingredient in Vital Proteins® products. So, is collagen vegan? In short, the collagen in our products is not vegan. We haven't yet found a plant-based collagen source that meets the standards of our current product line-up.
While our hydrolysed Collagen Peptides, for example, are free of dairy, gluten and added sweeteners, the product does contain one singular ingredient that, in itself, is not vegan: collagen.
Below, we explore collagen further: what is collagen, the benefits of collagen, where collagen is made from, the best ways to get collagen, as well as why, as a result, collagen is not vegan. We do, however, offer up vegan Vital Proteins alternatives. Scroll on to take a look.
What are the Benefits of Collagen?
Let's start with a refresher on the health benefits of collagen. Collagen is important because our body's natural collagen production begins to decline as we age. Our bodies may no longer absorb nutrients as well or synthesise them as efficiently.
To ensure the body has enough of the ingredients required for collagen production, it is important to supplement with collagen and its necessary amino acids.
Collagen is special because it contains an abundance of the three amino acids that you won't find in meaningful amounts in many other foods (glycine, proline and hydroxyproline).
What is Collagen Made From?
Our bodies naturally produce collagen - a major component of hair, skin, nails and joints - but the production of collagen slows down as we age. This is why adding collagen to our diets has become our mission.
Is Marine Collagen Vegan?
In terms of non-cattle sourcing, we also offer pescatarian-friendly Marine Collagen. While this is also not vegan, it’s a sustainable, natural by-product of the seafood industry.
We source this pescatarian-friendly offering from non-GMO white fish. We believe in whole animal nutrition to reduce waste and improve sustainability, so our Marine Collagen is sourced from the skin and scales of fish, natural by-products of the seafood industry that would otherwise be discarded.
Just like our original Collagen Peptides, the Marine Collagen is easily soluble in hot and cold liquids and is flavourless.
Collagen Peptides vs Marine Collagen: What’s the Difference?
Explore the difference between bovine collagen and marine collagen.
