Collagen peptides are a white, odorless powder that is neutral in taste and highly soluble in cold liquids. It emulsifies, foams, adds consistency and binds. Similar to gelatin, collagen peptides are derived from Type I collagen through a hydrolysis process. This is the same type of collagen that can be found in human skin and bone. Protein makes up 97 per cent of this natural product. On a dry basis, collagen peptides contain a total of 18 amino acids, including 8 essential amino acids. The amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline are the most prevalent in collagen peptides, making up 50 per cent of its total amino acid content. This special mix of amino acids gives collagen peptides several functional properties.

In contrast to gelatin, collagen peptides have not been shown to have gelling capabilities. This is due to its low molecular weight. From a technical standpoint, this is a critical distinction: gelatin is made up of relatively long chains of amino acids, collagen peptides out of short chains (which are known as peptides). The latter enables a very high degree of biological availability, since small peptides can be taken up by the bloodstream through the intestinal wall.

Its shorter peptide chains keep collagen peptides from establishing cross links, which are necessary for gelling. For this reason, collagen peptides can simply be dissolved in cold water and does not first require swelling and heating. This has no effect on its other properties, such as emulsification, binding or foaming. 

The most important properties of collagen peptides are its unparalleled benefits for the health and care sectors. This is why it has become a key ingredient in the functional foodstuff (beverages, dietary supplements) and cosmetic industries. The benefits of collagen peptides for health and beauty have been confirmed and recognized for years. Scientific studies have shown that 10 grams a day or even less have a positive effect on joint, bone and skin health.

Collagen peptides have been subject to scientific research and have been shown to be free of adverse side effects. It can simply be integrated into the conventional manufacturing process of the respective product.

Scientific studies

To the best knowledge of GROW, a “List of scientific studies - Benefits of collagen peptides” can be found here:

List of scientific studies

• Bone and joint health
• Beauty-from-Inside and topical cosmetics
• Weight control
• Healthy ageing
• High protein diets / Sports nutrition
• Animal health