Our best collagen peptides: a simple guide to hydrolysed collagen
Written byOlivia Rosenvinge
Reviewed byHeeral Tomlinson
Collagen: does (molecular) size really matter? We explain collagen peptides and hydrolysed collagen and share our faves, from Applied Nutrition to fruity Zooki sachets
Our top picks
Halal-certified
Applied Nutrition
Applied Nutrition Collagen Peptides 300g
€22.50
RRP €30.00
40mg vitamin C
Holland & Barrett
Holland & Barrett Bioactive Collagen Peptides Unflavoured Powder 153g
3 for 2 Mix & Match
€37.99
With Tendoforte®
Zooki
Zooki Super Strength Zooki Marine Collagen 11,000mg, Sour Cherry Flavour - 14x18.5ml Liquid Sachets
Buy 1 Get 1 Half Price
€48.99
You’re taking the leap into collagen and you’ve made the decisions: bovine or marine, powder or gummies. Now there are more phrases – hydrolysed collagen and peptides. Feeling clueless? With help from H&B nutritionist Olivia Rosenvinge, we’ll explain the difference between ‘regular’ collagen and hydrolysed collagen peptides, plus which might be best for you. Then stick around to browse our favourite peptide products...
What is hydrolysed collagen?
Collagen is our body’s main source of protein and it’s essentially the ‘glue’ that holds us together. It’s found in everything from our skin, bones and muscles to eyes and internal organs.1,2 “When collagen is enzymatically broken down, it becomes hydrolysed collagen. This consists of smaller fragments called collagen peptides. Hydrolysis reduces the molecular size, which means they’re more readily absorbed into the bloodstream after ingestion,” Olivia explains.3,4
You can also buy collagen supplements, which often contain hydrolysed collagen (also called collagen peptides on the packaging). It's commonly sold in capsules or powders, which can be added to drinks, soups or even baked goods.
What’s the difference between collagen, hydrolysed collagen and collagen peptides?
Stuck on what to look for when you’re shopping? Let’s decode the difference between each form of collagen:
- collagen is the general term for all the types and forms – from the collagen that already exists in our bodies to naturally collagen-containing foods and the hydrolysed collagen supplements you can find in shops
- hydrolysed collagen is the kind often (but not always) used in collagen supplements, such as collagen powder or gummies. It gets broken down into smaller pieces (peptides) to make it easier for the body to absorb
- collagen peptides are the name for those smaller ‘pieces’ of hydrolysed collagen. So if you see that your collagen supplement is hydrolysed, it’ll contain peptides. While they’re not technically the same, you might see ‘hydrolysed collagen’ and ‘collagen peptides’ used interchangeably on products
- intact collagen which isn't hydrolysed – it's in its natural form and hasn’t been broken down. Which means it’s more difficult for the body to absorb. But the collagen you get in animal products (like bone broth) is intact
Are collagen peptides better absorbed than other forms of collagen?
In short: yes. “Collagen peptides are absorbed more efficiently than intact collagen because of their smaller molecular size,” says Olivia.5 “Our bodies can’t absorb collagen in its whole form. To enter the bloodstream, it must be broken down into peptides so it can be absorbed through the gut.3,5
“Native, undigested collagen is too large for the body to absorb, so it must first be broken down by enzymes. Our bodies can do this, but it’s slightly less effective than receiving peptides ‘pre-made’. Research suggests that hydrolysed collagen raises collagen peptide levels in the blood more than ‘regular’ collagen.”5 Essentially, you get more of the important stuff.
Hydrolysed collagen and collagen peptides have been studied for their role in areas such as musculoskeletal health. While findings vary, these ingredients are frequently chosen by those looking to include collagen as part of their daily routine.
Our top collagen peptide products
Some people enjoy a fruity collagen drink every day... others prefer a taste that’s easy to switch up. If you’re the latter, our Bioactive Collagen Peptides are an effortless way to add collagen to the food and drinks you already love.
Each serving provides 5000mg (5g) of Tendoforte® collagen peptides. Added manganese contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and the normal formation of connective tissue, while vitamin C contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of skin, bones, cartilage and more.6-10 Stir into your morning coffee, your signature bake or even soups for an undetectable hit of collagen you can switch up every day.
Vital Proteins’ collagen peptides are formulated to mix easily into hot or cold liquids, so you can enjoy yours how you like. Mocha on ice, anyone? Chocolate taste aside, you’ll get an impressive 20g hydrolysed bovine collagen peptides. Stir four tablespoons with 250ml warm water or milk and mix thoroughly for a collagen hot chocolate – bliss. Or get creative with a chocolate and fruit smoothie or choc-flavoured pancakes. For best results, use a shaker cup or blender.
Plain doesn’t have to mean boring. Applied Nutrition’s unflavoured collagen fits seamlessly into your routine, adding hydrolysed collagen peptides to your favourite food and drinks. This bovine collagen blend provides 20,000mg (20g) collagen per serving, plus there’s no added sugar and it’s suitable for keto diets. Your next step is just a mix away...
Whether you’re in it for the convenience or the nostalgic vibes (we’re talking yoghurt, not collagen) Zooki’s squeezy sachets make getting your collagen that little bit easier. The Sour Cherry flavour offers a sweet-shop feel, with 11,000 mg hydrolysed marine collagen, plus 40mg vitamin C. Take one pouch daily, either straight from the sachet or mixed into water, smoothies, shakes or yoghurt. Et voilà: a very cherry collagen dream.
You might know Dose & Co. for their velvety collagen creamers (we’d recommend those too). But on days when you fancy something lighter, their Collagen Peptide Powder comes to the rescue. Each serving provides 20g bovine collagen peptides ready to mix into your breakfast brew, a summery iced tea or your fancy Friday matcha. And did we mention that’s the only ingredient? No added extras – just the collagen you love. Mix four heaped teaspoons into 200ml liquid and enjoy.
Grab from the fridge and go – no mixing needed. FYX’s collagen water lives up to its name as a quick way to get your collagen on busy days. Perfect for stashing in your gym bag or sipping through the day, you’ll get 2500mg hydrolysed marine collagen in every bottle. This berry-flavoured drink also contains 25% of your daily vitamin C to aid normal collagen formation (and support the reduction of tiredness and fatigue – bonus).6,11
Collagen peptides FAQs
While research has typically used around 2.5–15g of hydrolysed collagen peptides, formulations can vary, so it’s important to check and follow the instructions on the specific product chosen.12-15
“As with any supplement, collagen may interact with medications, so it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before use,” says Olivia. “Also, higher protein intake from collagen could be a concern for anyone with kidney or liver conditions that affect protein metabolism.”16
The final say
Fruity collagen drink, plain and simple or even collagen creams – choose the style that suits you. Not spotted your favourite? Shop our full collagen range or discover the best collagen gummies for skin, hair and joint support.
Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.
1. Wu M, et al. Biochemistry, collagen synthesis. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709
2. Shoulders MD, Raines RT. Collagen Structure and Stability. Annu Rev Biochem [Internet]. 2010 Mar 29 [cited 2024 Jun 21]; 78: 929-958. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2846778/
3. Virgilio N et al. Absorption of bioactive peptides following collagen hydrolysate intake: a randomized, double-blind crossover study in healthy individuals. Front Nutr [Internet]. 2024 Aug 1 [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39149544/
4. León-López A et al. Hydrolyzed Collagen – Sources and Applications. Molecules [Internet]. 2019 Nov 7 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 24(22): 4031. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6891674/
5. Yamamoto S, Deguchi K, Onuma M, Numata N, Sakai Y. Absorption and Urinary Excretion of Peptides after Collagen Tripeptide Ingestion in Humans. Biol Pharm Bull [Internet]. 2016 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 39(3): 428-34. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26934933/
6. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6505
7. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6502
8. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6503
9. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6412
10. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6413
11. European Commission. Characteristics [Internet]. European Commission [cited 2026 Apr 10]. Available from: https://ec.europa.eu/food/food-feed-portal/screen/health-claims/eu-register/details/POL-HC-6512
12. Paul C, Leser S, Oesser S. Significant Amounts of Functional Collagen Peptides Can Be Incorporated in the Diet While Maintaining Indispensable Amino Acid Balance. Nutrients [Internet]. 2019 May 15 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 11(5): 1079. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6566836/
13. Martínez-Puig D, Costa-Larrión E, Rubio-Rodríguez N, Gálvez-Martín P. Collagen Supplementation for Joint Health: The Link between Composition and Scientific Knowledge. Nutrients [Internet]. 2023 Mar 8 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 15(6): 1332. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10058045/
14. Zdzieblik D, Oesser S, König D. Specific Bioactive Collagen Peptides in Osteopenia and Osteoporosis: Long-Term Observation in Postmenopausal Women. J Bone Metab [Internet]. 2021 Aug 31 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 28(3): 207-213. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8441532/
15. Pu S et al. Effects of Oral Collagen for Skin Anti-Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients [Internet]. 2023 Apr 26 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 15(9): 2080. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/
16. Møller G et al. Higher Protein Intake Is Not Associated with Decreased Kidney Function in Pre-Diabetic Older Adults Following a One-Year Intervention-A Preview Sub-Study. Nutrients [Internet]. 2018 Jan 9 [cited 2026 Apr 10]; 10(1): 54. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29315212/
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