Can you get collagen from fish bones? A comprehensive guide to marine collagen

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

Over 50% of the raw material from fish processing, including the bones, skin, and scales, is often discarded as waste. These by-products, far from being useless, are proven sources of high-quality, bioavailable marine collagen.

Quick Summary

Fish bones are a proven and sustainable source of marine collagen, primarily Type I. Extracted through processes like hydrolysis or simmering for broth, the resulting peptides offer benefits for skin, joint, and bone health, with high bioavailability compared to other sources.

Key Points

Proven Source: Fish bones, along with skin and scales, are a rich and scientifically proven source of high-quality collagen, primarily Type I.
High Bioavailability: Marine collagen is more easily and efficiently absorbed by the body due to its smaller molecular weight compared to bovine collagen.
Skin and Joint Benefits: Supplementation can improve skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, while also supporting joint and bone health, and aiding wound healing.
Sustainable Solution: Using fish processing by-products for collagen extraction reduces waste and provides a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional land animal sources.
Extraction Methods: Collagen can be extracted commercially via acid or enzyme-assisted hydrolysis to produce peptides, or at home by simmering bones to make a nutrient-rich broth.
Preparation Options: Fish collagen can be consumed through supplements, which typically contain hydrolyzed peptides, or by incorporating gelatinous fish bone broth into your diet.

Yes, Fish Bones are a Potent Source of Collagen

Contrary to popular belief that collagen is primarily from land animals like cows or pigs, marine sources like fish are incredibly rich in this vital protein. Among the various fish parts, the bones are a significant reservoir. Research has shown that Type I collagen, the same type most abundant in the human body, can be reliably extracted from the skeletal remains of many fish species, including cod, salmon, and tilapia. Utilizing these by-products from the fishing industry not only provides a valuable health supplement but also offers a sustainable solution to reducing industrial waste.

The Science of Marine Collagen Extraction

Extracting collagen from fish bones is not as simple as boiling them for an hour. Industrial and scientific methods involve careful processes to preserve the delicate protein structure and ensure purity. The most common methods include:

Acid-Soluble Extraction (ASC): This method involves soaking the pre-treated fish bones in a weak acid solution, like acetic acid. The acid disrupts the collagen’s cross-links, solubilizing it for collection.
Pepsin-Soluble Extraction (PSC): An enzymatic approach where pepsin is added to an acidic solution to cleave the non-helical ends of the collagen molecules, increasing solubility and extraction yield.
Hydrolysis: A process that uses enzymes or heat to break down the large, native collagen protein into smaller, easily digestible collagen peptides.

These methods are typically performed at low temperatures (often 4-10°C) to prevent the heat-sensitive collagen from denaturing and turning into gelatin prematurely.

Why Marine Collagen from Bones is Beneficial

Marine collagen, especially when hydrolyzed into peptides, is highly valued for its high bioavailability and specific health benefits. The peptides derived from fish bones have a smaller molecular weight than those from bovine sources, meaning the body can absorb and utilize them more efficiently.

Here are some of the key benefits:

Skin Health: The Type I collagen found in fish bones is a primary component of human skin. Supplementation can help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and firmness, and may reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Joint and Bone Support: As a major component of cartilage and bone, marine collagen can support joint health by reducing pain and stiffness associated with conditions like osteoarthritis. It also promotes bone mineral density and overall bone regeneration.
Faster Wound Healing: Collagen is a key player in the body's natural healing process. Studies have shown that marine collagen peptides can accelerate wound closure by promoting fibroblast migration and tissue regeneration.
Stronger Hair and Nails: Marine collagen provides the amino acid building blocks, such as proline and glycine, necessary for the production of keratin, the structural protein in hair and nails.

Can you make fish bone broth at home?

Yes, making a nutrient-rich fish bone broth is an accessible way to extract collagen at home. The process involves simmering fish frames, fins, and bones—preferably from non-oily, white-fleshed fish like cod or snapper—for a shorter duration than mammalian bone broth. A splash of vinegar can be added to help draw out the minerals and collagen from the bones. This gentle heating process results in a delicate, gelatin-rich stock that is full of minerals and beneficial amino acids.

Marine vs. Bovine Collagen: A Comparison


Feature	Marine Collagen (from Fish Bones)	Bovine Collagen (from Cattle Hides)
Source	Fish skin, scales, and bones, often considered a sustainable by-product of the fishing industry.	Cattle hides, bones, and cartilage, a traditional source of collagen.
Collagen Type	Primarily Type I collagen, the most abundant type in the human body, especially in skin, bones, and tendons.	Primarily Type I and Type III collagen. Type I is for skin and bones, while Type III supports muscle tissue and organs.
Bioavailability	High bioavailability due to smaller peptide size, allowing for more efficient absorption.	Lower bioavailability compared to marine collagen, with larger molecules that are absorbed more slowly.
Best For	Focus on skin elasticity, hydration, wrinkle reduction, and bone health.	Focus on overall skin, bone, joint, and muscle support.
Allergen Risk	Safe for pescatarians; poses a risk for individuals with fish or seafood allergies.	Unsuitable for vegans, vegetarians, or those with certain religious dietary restrictions.

A Note on Sustainable and Safe Sourcing

As the demand for marine collagen grows, it is crucial to consider the source. Prioritizing products from sustainably and responsibly sourced wild-caught fish helps ensure environmental health. Moreover, manufacturers must test products for heavy metal contamination, which can be present in marine life, to guarantee a safe supplement. Always look for transparent brands that provide information on their sourcing and testing protocols.

Conclusion

Yes, you can absolutely get high-quality collagen from fish bones. As a sustainable and potent source of Type I collagen, fish bones are a foundation for effective marine collagen supplements and nourishing bone broth. With its superior bioavailability and benefits for skin, joints, and bones, marine collagen from fish by-products presents a compelling alternative to traditional sources. By opting for responsibly sourced products or preparing homemade broth, consumers can harness these advantages while promoting environmental sustainability. The scientific evidence continues to reinforce marine collagen's potential as a valuable and promising biomaterial for health and wellness applications.

Scaling New Depths: Innovations in Fish Collagen Extraction

Frequently Asked Questions

Fish bones are a source of primarily Type I collagen, which is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body, found in skin, bones, and connective tissues.

Fish bone collagen is often considered more bioavailable due to its smaller peptide size, leading to faster absorption. It is particularly effective for skin, hair, and nail health, while bovine collagen, containing Types I and III, offers broader support.

No, while fish meat contains protein, the highest concentrations of collagen are found in the parts we usually discard, like the skin, scales, and bones. Eating fillets alone will not provide a significant amount of collagen.

You can make a nourishing fish bone broth. By simmering the bones and heads of white fish with water and a bit of vinegar for a few hours, you can extract the collagen and minerals into a stock.

Hydrolyzed fish collagen peptides are broken down into smaller, highly absorbable molecules. Benefits include improved skin hydration, elasticity, and firmness, as well as support for joint and bone health.

Individuals with fish or seafood allergies should avoid marine collagen supplements. Always check the source and consult a doctor, as there is a risk of an allergic reaction.

Using by-products like fish bones for collagen production is a sustainable practice that minimizes waste. However, responsible sourcing from wild-caught or sustainably farmed fish is important to prevent overfishing and environmental harm.