Understanding The Collagen Co.'s Products
For consumers with dairy allergies, lactose intolerance, or other dietary sensitivities, it is crucial to understand that not all of The Collagen Co.'s products are made equal. The company offers two distinct types of products that must be carefully differentiated: pure collagen peptides and blended formula products like the Glow Shakes.
The Pure Collagen Peptides
The foundation of many of The Collagen Co.'s offerings is pure, hydrolyzed collagen peptides. These are derived from animal sources—specifically grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine or sustainably sourced marine life. Because collagen protein is not derived from milk or dairy, the raw collagen ingredient itself is inherently dairy-free. Products featuring only these unadulterated peptides, which are often unflavoured or naturally flavoured with fruit extracts, are a safe choice for those avoiding dairy. The company's FAQ section explicitly confirms this, stating, "our collagen ingredient is dairy and lactose-free".
Commonly dairy-free products include:
- Unflavoured Collagen Powder
- Flavoured Collagen Powder (e.g., Passionfruit Mango, Mixed Berry, Strawberry Watermelon)
- Marine Collagen Powder
The Blended Glow Shakes and Meal Replacements
In contrast to their pure peptide products, The Collagen Co.'s range of Glow Shakes and collagen-based meal replacements are not dairy-free. These products are formulated with a more complex ingredient list designed for a specific nutritional profile, which includes milk-derived ingredients. The inclusion of these ingredients is explicitly stated on the product packaging and ingredients lists.
Products confirmed to contain dairy include:
- Glow Shakes (e.g., Vanilla Milkshake, Chocolate Milkshake)
- Any other meal replacement products that list milk protein isolate or whey protein isolate as ingredients
Why the Dairy Content Matters
The distinction between these product lines is vital for several reasons:
- Lactose Intolerance: Many individuals lack the enzyme lactase needed to properly digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Consuming a product like the Glow Shakes would cause digestive discomfort, bloating, and gas.
- Milk Allergies: For those with a milk protein allergy (a more serious immune response), consuming a dairy-containing product could trigger a severe allergic reaction. This is different from a lactose intolerance and requires complete avoidance.
- Dietary Choices: Individuals following a strict dairy-free or vegan diet for ethical, health, or personal reasons must be vigilant. While the pure collagen is animal-based and not vegan, the dairy-free versions are suitable for those simply avoiding milk.
Reading the Label for Assurance
To ensure you are selecting a dairy-free option from The Collagen Co, or any other supplement brand, always practice diligent label reading. Key phrases to look for include "dairy-free" or "lactose-free" claims, but more importantly, scrutinize the ingredients list. Specifically look for milk, whey protein, or casein, which are all dairy derivatives. Flavoring is often a source of hidden dairy ingredients, so unflavoured options are typically the safest choice.
Other Dairy-Free Collagen and Vegan Options
If you prefer to avoid animal-derived collagen entirely or want more choices for dairy-free products, there are alternatives available on the market:
- Other Dairy-Free Collagen Supplements: Many brands offer pure bovine or marine collagen peptides that are dairy-free, similar to The Collagen Co.'s plain powders. Always check for specific dairy-free certification.
- Vegan Collagen Boosters: These products do not contain collagen itself, as true collagen is animal-based. Instead, they provide the essential nutrients needed for your body's natural collagen production, such as vitamin C, amino acids like glycine and proline, and silica.
Product Comparison: Peptides vs. Glow Shakes
| Feature | The Collagen Co. Pure Peptides | The Collagen Co. Glow Shakes |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy-Free | Yes | No |
| Contains | Bovine or Marine Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, plus added Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, and Biotin (in some blends) | Milk Protein Isolate, Whey Protein Isolate, Hydrolyzed Collagen Peptides, plus other ingredients for flavour and texture |
| Best For | Those seeking general collagen benefits for skin, hair, nails, and joints who need a dairy-free option | Individuals looking for a complete meal replacement shake with high protein and added collagen who do not have dairy sensitivities |
| Dietary Notes | Pescatarian-friendly (Marine) or suitable for those who consume beef (Bovine); not vegan | Contains dairy; not suitable for those with milk allergies or lactose intolerance |
| Absorption | Very high bioavailability, especially Marine Collagen | Good absorption, but the presence of other proteins may alter the rate |
Conclusion: Read Your Labels
The key takeaway for anyone asking, "is The Collagen Co dairy free?" is that the answer is conditional. The company's raw collagen peptide ingredients, derived from bovine or marine sources, are dairy-free. However, their formulated products like the Glow Shakes contain milk protein and are not suitable for individuals avoiding dairy. It is the responsibility of the consumer to check the specific product label and ingredients list to ensure it meets their dietary needs. Always opt for unflavoured or clearly marked dairy-free versions if milk is a concern. For additional guidance, authoritative health blogs can offer more tips on finding safe supplements.
How to Select a Dairy-Free Collagen Product
- Check the product name: The words "Shake" or "Meal Replacement" are often red flags for added dairy proteins. Look for "Peptides" or "Powder" instead.
- Read the ingredients: Don't rely solely on front-label claims. Scan the ingredients list for milk, whey, or casein.
- Opt for Unflavoured: Unflavoured products carry a lower risk of containing hidden dairy-based flavourings.
- Confirm the Source: Be aware that all true collagen is animal-derived (bovine, marine, etc.), and therefore not vegan, though many are dairy-free.
- Look for Certification: Some brands offer third-party certification confirming their products are dairy-free or manufactured in a dairy-free facility. This adds an extra layer of safety.
How to Choose the Right Collagen for You
Determining whether you need bovine or marine collagen is a common question. As outlined by resources like Preserv Wellness, marine collagen (Type I) is often preferred for skin, hair, and nail health due to its smaller molecule size and quicker absorption, while bovine collagen (Type I and III) may offer stronger support for joints and gut health. However, if dairy is your primary concern, your focus should be on the formula rather than the collagen source, unless you have a shellfish allergy with marine options.
Ultimately, a well-informed choice will prevent unwanted allergic reactions or digestive issues and ensure you get the health benefits you are seeking from your collagen supplement.
YesWellness.com offers further reading on dairy in protein supplements.
