Sourcing and Manufacturing of Ancient and Brave's Collagen
Ancient and Brave is a mission-driven wellness brand known for its emphasis on purity, potency, and sustainability. For a product like collagen, which comes from animal sources, the origins of the raw materials and the manufacturing processes are critical for both quality and ethics. Ancient and Brave addresses this transparently, detailing the specific origins for its different collagen types.
True Collagen (Bovine) Manufacturing
Ancient and Brave's True Collagen, which is a Type I hydrolysed bovine collagen, is manufactured within the European Union. The peptides are derived from raw materials that are exclusively sourced from healthy, grass-fed bovine herds also located in the EU. This practice aligns with the brand's commitment to using by-products from the food industry to contribute to a circular economy. Furthermore, by relying on an EU-focused supply chain, the company benefits from and supports the EU's comprehensive animal welfare and deforestation legislation.
Wild Collagen (Marine) Manufacturing
For those with different dietary preferences, Ancient and Brave also offers Wild Collagen. This is a Type I hydrolysed marine collagen sourced from the skin of wild-caught, free-swimming North Atlantic white fish. The sourcing is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), which ensures sustainable fishing practices. The manufacturing of this product also takes place under the brand's stringent quality standards, ensuring a final product free from hormones and antibiotics. The choice of wild-caught over farmed fish is also a deliberate one, reflecting the brand's commitment to higher quality sourcing and minimizing the health risks associated with farmed fish.
Ethical and Environmental Standards
Ancient and Brave's commitment goes beyond simple sourcing locations. As one of the highest-scoring B Corp wellness brands in the world, the company puts both people and the planet at the heart of its business model.
- Sustainability: The brand continuously works to improve its environmental performance. Its bovine collagen, for example, is a natural by-product of the food industry, which reduces waste. The company also uses recycled and recyclable packaging, including FSC-certified card and glass.
- Animal Welfare: The company works with manufacturing partners who are members of the Gelatine Manufacturers of Europe (GME). This partnership ensures strict enforcement of EU animal welfare legislation, maintaining high standards for the animals in their supply chain.
- Transparency and Testing: All products are meticulously sourced, tested, and formulated. Ancient and Brave utilizes independent third-party laboratories to regularly validate their products, ensuring purity and that what's on the label is what's in the product.
Comparative Analysis of Collagen Sourcing
| Feature | Ancient and Brave Bovine Collagen | Ancient and Brave Marine Collagen | Generic Collagen (Less Regulated) | 
|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Grass-fed EU bovine hide | MSC-certified wild-caught North Atlantic fish | Often from unknown origins; could be factory-farmed animals or farmed fish | 
| Manufacturing Location | EU | Not explicitly stated but under EU standards due to UK HQ | Varies widely, often in countries with less stringent regulations | 
| Quality Assurance | Third-party tested for contaminants | MSC certified for sustainability | May lack third-party verification, increasing risk of contaminants | 
| Animal Welfare | Strict adherence to EU regulations | Based on sustainable, wild-caught practices | Concerns over animal welfare conditions and use of antibiotics | 
| Environmental Impact | Utilizes food industry by-products | Sustainable, wild-caught sourcing | Potential for environmental harm from unsustainable practices | 
Conclusion: The Importance of Origin
Ultimately, understanding where is Ancient and Brave collagen manufactured is key to appreciating the brand's broader commitments to quality, ethics, and sustainability. The European Union serves as both the sourcing and manufacturing hub for their bovine collagen, while their marine collagen is sourced from sustainable, wild-caught fishing in the North Atlantic. This transparency allows consumers to make informed choices that align with their personal values, providing confidence in the product's origin and the integrity of the company behind it. The certifications and ethical standards that the company adheres to, such as being a B Corp, further reinforce their commitment to a holistic and responsible wellness approach.
Dermoi's brand overview provides more detail on Ancient and Brave's holistic approach.