Unveiling the Source: The Fish Behind Vital Proteins Marine Collagen
For consumers, understanding the origin of their supplements is paramount, and Vital Proteins is transparent about what fish is Vital Proteins marine collagen made of. The company sources its marine collagen from the scales and skin of wild-caught white fish, with cod being a primary species. This practice is part of a sustainable effort to upcycle by-products of the seafood industry that would otherwise be discarded, turning them into a beneficial product for human health. The fish are caught off the coast of Alaska, ensuring a high-quality, non-GMO source. This wild-caught origin and responsible sourcing process are key differentiators for the product, appealing to those who prefer supplements with clear ethical and environmental standards.
The Marine Collagen Production Process
Producing marine collagen from fish by-products is a meticulous process designed to create a pure and highly bioavailable supplement. The journey from fish scales to a fine, dissolvable powder involves several key steps:
- Sourcing: Scales and skin are collected as a natural by-product of the fishing industry, in this case, from wild-caught white fish.
- Cleaning and Preparation: The raw materials are thoroughly cleaned to ensure purity and remove any impurities.
- Extraction: A heating process with purified water is used to extract the raw collagen from the scales or skin.
- Hydrolysis: The extracted collagen is then treated with proteolytic enzymes, which break the collagen down into smaller protein chains known as collagen peptides. This is a crucial step that enhances the supplement's bioavailability, making it easier for the body to digest and absorb.
- Drying: The hydrolyzed collagen peptides are spray-dried using pressurized hot air, converting them into a fine, odorless powder.
- Testing: Each batch is laboratory-tested for quality and safety before being packaged.
Comparison: Marine Collagen vs. Bovine Collagen
While Vital Proteins offers both marine and bovine collagen, there are distinct differences that appeal to different consumer needs. The choice often comes down to dietary preferences, absorption rates, and specific health goals. Marine collagen is a favorite among pescatarians, while bovine is a broader option for non-vegetarians.
| Feature | Vital Proteins Marine Collagen | Vital Proteins Bovine Collagen |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Scales and skin of wild-caught white fish (e.g., cod) | Hides of grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine |
| Collagen Types | Predominantly Type I and III | Primarily Type I and III |
| Bioavailability | Highly bioavailable due to smaller peptide size; potentially absorbed faster | Highly bioavailable; a standard for collagen supplements |
| Dietary Suitability | Pescatarian-friendly, Paleo, Whole30 | Paleo-friendly, but not suitable for pescatarians or vegans |
| Primary Benefits | Supports skin elasticity, hydration, hair, and nails | Supports healthy hair, skin, nails, joints, and bones |
The Benefits of Type I and III Marine Collagen
Marine collagen is primarily composed of Type I and Type III collagen, the most abundant types found in the human body. Type I collagen is the building block for hair, skin, nails, and bones, while Type III is often found alongside Type I in connective tissues. By supplementing with hydrolyzed marine peptides, individuals can help support the natural renewal and regeneration of their body's collagen stores.
Key benefits attributed to this type of collagen include:
- Enhanced Skin Health: Supports skin elasticity, hydration, and reduces the appearance of fine lines.
- Stronger Hair and Nails: Provides the necessary amino acids to help strengthen hair and promote healthier nail growth.
- Joint and Bone Support: Contributes to the maintenance of normal bone structure and aids in overall joint health.
- High Bioavailability: The smaller particle size of marine collagen peptides allows for faster and more efficient absorption by the body compared to other sources.
Ethical and Environmental Responsibility
Beyond the specific fish used, the sourcing of Vital Proteins Marine Collagen reflects a commitment to ethical and environmental responsibility. By utilizing wild-caught fish by-products, the process helps reduce waste and supports a more circular economy within the fishing industry. The company also holds B Corp™ certification, which verifies that it meets high standards of social and environmental performance. This commitment provides peace of mind for consumers concerned about the ethical footprint of their purchases.
Conclusion
In summary, Vital Proteins marine collagen is made of wild-caught white fish, notably cod, sourced from pristine Alaskan waters. By utilizing the scales and skin of these fish—otherwise considered by-products—the brand provides a high-quality, bioavailable, and pescatarian-friendly supplement in a sustainable manner. The hydrolysis process breaks down the collagen into easily digestible peptides, delivering Type I and Type III collagen to support skin, hair, nails, joints, and bones. For those seeking a marine-based collagen with transparent and responsible sourcing, Vital Proteins is a standout option. For more details on the sourcing process and sustainability initiatives, consult the Vital Proteins official blog.
Note: While the brand emphasizes sustainable and wild-caught sourcing, independent research suggests ongoing challenges in monitoring all collagen supply chains. As a conscious consumer, it is always best to stay informed and rely on third-party certifications like B Corp™ when possible.
