The Primary Source: Grass-Fed, Pasture-Raised Bovine
Vital Proteins is well-known for its flagship Collagen Peptides powder, which is derived from grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides. The company emphasizes its commitment to sourcing high-quality and sustainable ingredients, working with suppliers who adhere to strict standards for animal welfare and business practices. These suppliers must source cattle that have been raised predominately on outdoor pastures, with access to fresh grass, air, and water. Vital Proteins is clear that cattle are not raised specifically for collagen production; instead, the bovine hides are an upcycled by-product of the meat and leather industries.
The Bovine Collagen Process
The hides undergo a multi-step process to become the fine powder found in canisters. First, the hides are cleaned and soaked in hot water to remove fat. They are then treated with an acid or alkaline solution to facilitate the release of collagen. This raw collagen is then cooked in water at a specific temperature to extract it. Crucially, the collagen is then treated with enzymes in a process called hydrolysis, which breaks the long protein chains into smaller, more bioavailable peptides. The final steps involve evaporation and milling to produce the finished, dissolvable powder.
An Alternative: Wild-Caught Marine Collagen
For those with dietary preferences that exclude red meat, such as pescatarians, Vital Proteins also offers Marine Collagen. This product is sourced from the scales of fresh, non-GMO, wild-caught white fish, typically off the coast of Alaska. Like the bovine variety, the fish scales are a valuable by-product of the fishing industry, preventing waste and ensuring a sustainable use of resources.
Why Marine Collagen is a Popular Choice
Marine collagen is often favored for its specific amino acid profile and its high bioavailability, meaning the body can absorb it quickly and efficiently. It provides Type I and Type III collagen, the same primary types found in the bovine version, supporting the health of hair, skin, nails, and joints. This makes it an excellent alternative for those who avoid beef but still seek the benefits of collagen supplementation.
Comparison Table: Vital Proteins Bovine vs. Marine Collagen
| Feature | Vital Proteins Bovine Collagen | Vital Proteins Marine Collagen |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source | Hides of grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine | Scales of wild-caught whitefish |
| Collagen Types | Type I and Type III | Type I and Type III |
| Processing Method | Hydrolyzed peptides via enzymatic treatment | Hydrolyzed peptides for bioavailability |
| Dietary Compliance | Paleo-friendly, Whole30 approved | Pescatarian-friendly, Paleo-friendly, Whole30 approved |
| Key Benefit | Supports hair, skin, nails, bones, and joints | Supports hair, skin, nails, and joints |
Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Vital Proteins has a publicly stated commitment to social and environmental responsibility, which extends to its ingredient sourcing. The company works with a small number of direct suppliers to ensure quality and compliance with ethical standards. This includes a goal for full supply chain traceability and deforestation-free sourcing. The use of upcycled by-products from the meat and leather industries is a core part of their strategy, aligning with a more sustainable approach to production rather than creating a separate demand for animal farming.
The Role of Hydrolysis in Creating a Bioavailable Supplement
Hydrolysis is the most critical part of the manufacturing process for creating effective collagen supplements. Without it, the body would struggle to digest and absorb the nutrients from the raw collagen material, such as bovine hides. By using enzymes to break down the protein's amino acids into smaller, easily absorbed collagen peptides, the body can more effectively utilize them to support its own collagen production. This explains why Vital Proteins' powders are so effective and easily dissolvable in both hot and cold liquids.
Conclusion: Sourcing Transparency and Quality
In summary, what is vital protein collagen made from? It is made from high-quality, upcycled bovine hides or wild-caught fish scales, depending on the product. Vital Proteins is transparent about its use of grass-fed, pasture-raised animals and sustainably sourced fish, and its manufacturing process employs hydrolysis to ensure the collagen peptides are bioavailable. This dedication to ethical sourcing and effective processing ensures that consumers receive a high-quality product that aligns with both wellness goals and environmental considerations. For more details on the company's products and sourcing, visit the Vital Proteins Official Website.
