Is plant-based collagen better than animal collagen?

Plant-based collagen and animal-based collagen differ fundamentally due to their origin and composition. While animal collagen is present as proteins, plant-based collagen is present as amino acids. They both play a crucial role in maintaining skin elasticity, strengthening connective tissue, and promoting the health of hair and nails.

1. Source:

  • Animal collagen: This type of collagen is primarily extracted from animal bones, skin, and tendons, such as cows, pigs, or fish. The process often involves boiling the animal parts to extract the collagen.
  • Plant-based collagen: This variant is created by combining proteins from plants, such as algae, beans or seeds, through advanced biotechnological methods. No animal products of any kind are used in the production.

2. Allergens and Ethical Considerations:

  • Animal collagen: People with allergies or dietary restrictions may experience challenges with animal collagen. Additionally, there may be ethical concerns regarding animal welfare and sustainability, especially if the sources are not responsibly farmed.
  • Plant-based collagen: This is a more hypoallergenic option as it does not contain the potential allergens found in animal products, and may appeal to those who value sustainability and want to avoid the use of animal products.

3. Molecular Structure:

  • Animal collagen: Molecular structure varies depending on the source, and some people claim that animal collagen better imitates the natural collagen in the human body.
  • Plant-based collagen: Plant-based collagen designed to mimic the skin's collagen types. Its functional properties and benefits for skin, hair and nails are the same as animal collagen. By designing the collagen, it can be achieved to mimic even more of the 28 specific collagen types that exist.

4. Bioavailability:

  • Animal collagen is found as proteins (a composition of peptides, which in turn are composed of amino acids).
  • Plant-based collagen is available as amino acids.
  • If collagen is present as proteins, it means that the protein must first be broken down into amino acids before it can be absorbed and used. Collagen that is already present in amino acid form, such as plant-based collagen, is directly absorbable or usable in the body.

    Ultimately, the choice between plant-based and animal-based collagen is often based on personal preference, dietary restrictions, and ethical considerations. Both types have their pros and cons. Read about our plant-based collagen serum here.


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