Marine vs Bovine Collagen: discover which collagen source is best for you.
There are at least 28 different types of collagen protein in your body, but 90% of these are collagen types I, II and III.
Our bodies naturally produce collagen, but production declines with age, and the visible and degenerative signs of ageing begin to appear. Preclinical studies show that ingesting collagen daily can offset this decline and restore youthful radiance, vitality, and comfort.
Marine Collagen
Collagen sourced from fish is exclusively Type I collagen, which is the primary component of healthy:
- Skin (75%)
- Organic Bone (90%)
- Tendons (85%)
- Cartilage (70%) (Type I Fibro-cartilage and Type II elastic and hyaline cartilage)
- Ligaments (70%)
Type I maintains dermal thickness diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improves skin elasticity, hydration and firmness while improving nail strength, hair growth and shine.
Marine collagen typically has more:
- Alanine: (increased immunity, improved metabolic function, the energy source for the central nervous system, muscle tissue and brain, decreased muscle fatigue, liver detoxification, protection against free radicals and oxidative stress, improved cholesterol)
- Arginine: (improved blood pressure, cardiovascular, heart health and wound healing)
- Aspartic acid: (neurotransmitter)
Because Type I is the most abundant form of collagen protein in the body, marine collagen is the fastest way to help restore youthful radiance within as little as 2 – 12 weeks. Marine collagen is renowned in the skincare industry because of its smaller molecule size and structure, which allows easier digestion and rapid absorption.
This is crucial when considering the bioavailability of collagen types. Specifically, marine collagen has smaller particles compared to other forms of collagen. This characteristic significantly enhances its absorption rate, ensuring that essential nutrients are delivered more quickly into the bloodstream. At MojoMe, the marine collagen used is hydrolysed, which means it has been specially formulated to break down even faster, optimizing the delivery of its beneficial properties right when the body needs them.
Bovine collagen, while also beneficial, has larger particles and a different composition, which might slow down its absorption compared to marine collagen. However, bovine collagen is plentiful and costs less to produce than marine collagen. So, if you’re looking for a broad-spectrum anti-ageing dietary supplement that can also help reduce GI inflammation and improve gut health, and you’re on a budget, pure bovine collagen powder might be your better choice.
While marine collagen peptides don’t contain the minerals you’d typically associate with bone health, recent studies suggest they may help support the absorption of calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals. Absorption was also associated with increased osteoblast activity, which is when cells in the bone are responsible for synthesising and mineralising bone.
Another bonus is that MojoMe Marine Collagen Hydrolysate is environmentally friendly; If you opt for marine, make sure the brand you choose lists its actual source. “Marine” is a blanket term used to describe collagen derived from any ocean source, including jellyfish, shellfish, crustaceans and even sharks?!
MojoMe Marine Collagen is produced from 100% wild-caught white fish (cod, haddock, and pollock) harvested from the crystal-clear waters of the North Atlantic using MSC-certified sustainable fishing practices. So, if you’re taking collagen to improve hair, skin, and nail health, want fast results, ethical sourcing, and a low carbon footprint, pure marine collagen might be your perfect solution.
Key factors to consider when choosing between marine collagen and bovine collagen include the collagen types present, specific benefits each type offers, absorption rates, cost-effectiveness, and individual health concerns. Marine collagen, primarily Type I, is beneficial for skin health, while bovine collagen contains Type I and III, making it suitable for gut health and joint support.
Marine collagen is known for faster absorption and smaller molecule size, ideal for skincare benefits. In contrast, bovine collagen is more cost-effective and may be preferred for muscle strength or gut-related issues.
Moreover, it is essential to consider dietary restrictions and potential allergies when selecting a collagen type. Bovine collagen, sourced from cows, may not be suitable for vegetarians or individuals who avoid beef due to religious or cultural reasons. Marine collagen derived from fish offers a viable alternative in such cases.
However, individuals with allergies to shellfish should steer clear of marine collagen, making bovine or even vegan collagen options more appropriate. Choosing between marine and bovine collagen depends on personal health goals, preferences, dietary restrictions, and allergen sensitivities."
Bovine Collagen
MojoMe Collagen powder, sourced from grass-fed beef (bovine), is not only a natural source of collagen types I and III but also an excellent choice for those seeking a variety of health benefits. Type I collagen is your body’s most prevalent structural protein, crucial for the strength and health of hair, skin, nails, bones, corneas, and teeth.
Type III, on the other hand, acts as a gut health superfood and a superhero for improved gut health and repair. Bovine collagen is particularly rich in Type III, making it a preferred option for individuals suffering from joint pain or sarcopenia. As you age, starting from around 50, your body begins to lose about 1% of muscle mass per year, and bovine collagen can help mitigate this loss.
Bovine collagen typically contains higher levels of Glycine—a potent anti-inflammatory that builds lean muscle, increases muscle strength, boosts energy, stabilises blood sugar, improves joint and bone health, enhances sleep quality, and accelerates recovery from exercise, illness, and surgery. It also includes Hydroxyproline, which contributes to anti-ageing skin repair and hydration, increased collagen production, and maintenance of connective tissues. Proline is known for improving skin hydration, restoring youthful radiance, and enhancing wound healing.
Derived from the hides of cows, once the beef has been utilized for food, the extraction process of bovine collagen begins, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. This sustainable sourcing makes bovine collagen a cost-effective option, as it capitalizes on by-products of the beef industry—one of the most consumed meats globally. This production efficiency makes bovine collagen an affordable choice and allows it to be available widely in various forms, such as powders, which are easy to integrate into daily diets.
Furthermore, bovine collagen is an ideal supplement for those with shellfish allergies who cannot take marine collagen. It contains a rich profile of essential amino acids, including glycine and proline, crucial for joint repair, muscle growth, and cardiovascular health. Bovine collagen also boasts more collagen type 2 than marine collagen, making it highly effective for anyone looking to enhance athletic performance through better muscle and joint repair.
So, suppose you’re looking for a broad-spectrum anti-ageing dietary supplement that can also help reduce GI inflammation and improve gut health, and you’re on a budget; pure bovine collagen powder might be your better choice. With its many benefits and cost-effectiveness, bovine collagen offers a comprehensive solution for enhancing overall health and combating the effects of ageing.
The Takeaway
MojoMe Collagen Marine and grass-fed Bovine have been shown to deliver similar premium health benefits without known side effects. Both are great for improved skin health, hair, nails, gut, bone, and connective tissue support. Both are low-molecular collagen powders with a clinically proven absorption rate of >96% for maximum efficacy and are sourced from France and Brazil, respectively.
Bovine collagen is a more cost-effective solution and might be the better choice if you suffer from muscle strength or gut-related health issues. Alternatively, marine collagen might be a better choice if you have skin and hair concerns, want faster results from collagen, or don’t consume beef products.
That’s the inside scoop on bovine collagen powder vs. marine collagen. Now, the choice is yours!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an alternative to bovine collagen for individuals with dietary restrictions or specific allergies?
Marine collagen is a suitable alternative for those avoiding bovine collagen due to dietary restrictions, and vegan collagen is an option for those with shellfish allergies.
Is bovine collagen suitable for vegetarians or individuals who avoid beef for religious or cultural reasons?
No, bovine collagen is derived from cows and is not appropriate for vegetarians or those who avoid beef due to religious or cultural beliefs.
What are the sustainability aspects associated with marine collagen compared to bovine collagen?
Marine collagen is notable for its sustainable characteristics, mainly because it is sourced from fish by-products that would otherwise be discarded. This utilisation of waste materials makes marine collagen an environmentally favourable option. In comparison, bovine collagen derived from cattle does not primarily use waste products and thus may not represent as efficient a use of resources. Consequently, marine collagen is often considered more eco-friendly than bovine collagen.
How can MojoMe marine collagen be incorporated into a daily routine for improved skin health?
Incorporating MojoMe marine collagen into your daily routine can significantly enhance your skin health due to its high bioavailability, meaning your body can efficiently absorb and utilise the nutrients. Start by choosing the marine collagen powder or collagen capsules. Each serving is formulated with highly functional marine collagen designed to support skin hydration and elasticity.
Over time, integrating this marine collagen supplement daily will help maintain your skin’s strength, smoothness, and hydration, showcasing visible improvements thanks to its unique, skin-enhancing properties.
