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Hydrolyzed collagen and collagen peptides: What’s the difference?

A long chain and short groups of ivory ceramic segments on a deep navy surface.

One label says “collagen peptides.” Another says “hydrolyzed collagen.” It sounds as though you’re choosing between two very different ingredients. Often, though, the terms describe the same process and what it produces.

From collagen to shorter protein chains

Collagen is a protein. Hydrolysis breaks its longer chains into smaller pieces. Hydrolyzed collagen, also called collagen hydrolysate, is collagen that has undergone this process. The smaller pieces are called peptides.

Hydrolysis can be carried out in several ways, including with enzymes. The term on the label doesn’t tell you exactly which production method was used or the size of every peptide. That information needs to come from the manufacturer.

Are collagen peptides and collagen hydrolysate the same thing?

In dietary supplements, both terms are often used to describe hydrolyzed collagen. “Hydrolysate” refers to the processed ingredient; “peptides” refers to the shorter protein chains it contains.

Two products with these terms on their labels aren’t necessarily identical. The animal source, amount per serving, other ingredients, and production method can all differ.

What about gelatin?

Gelatin is also made from collagen. Processing changes its original structure. Under the right conditions, gelatin can form a gel. Collagen that has been hydrolyzed further has different properties and is used in products such as powders and drinks.

The ingredients are related, but their names aren’t interchangeable.

What do types I, II, and III mean?

These types describe different forms of collagen in the original tissue. A type number alone doesn’t tell you how much collagen a product contains or how it has been processed. Nor does it prove that a supplement will target a particular part of your body.

So don’t base your choice on a type number alone. Check the source, the daily serving, and the full ingredient list, too. Our guide to reading a collagen label includes a practical cost comparison.

What’s in a BLUVITAL shot?

The Gold Reserve contains 15,000 mg of hydrolyzed collagen from fish in each 25 mL shot. The formula also includes vitamin C, zinc, and biotin, among other ingredients. Each box contains ten ready-to-drink, apple-flavored shots.

Each serving is already measured. Shake the bottle well, open it, and drink as directed on the label. It’s a convenient option if you prefer not to mix a powder.

Frequently asked questions

Is hydrolyzed collagen vegan?

No. Hydrolysis changes how collagen is processed, not its animal origin. The collagen in BLUVITAL comes from fish.

Does “peptides” automatically mean a product is better?

No. The term describes the shorter protein chains. To make a meaningful comparison, you also need to know the source, amount, and other ingredients.

Can a liquid product contain peptides, too?

Hydrolyzed collagen can be used in both powders and liquid products. The form you buy and the way the ingredient has been processed are two different things.

Ready to choose?

Prefer collagen in a measured, ready-to-drink serving? Explore The Gold Reserve: 15 grams of collagen from fish per shot, sugar-free, with a crisp apple flavor. Review the ingredients and order your box of ten shots.

Dietary supplement with sweeteners. Contains fish. Follow the label directions. A dietary supplement is not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

Want to compare the research, directions, and different formats? Read our marine collagen guide.

Sources

The literature cited in this article explains the ingredients and how they are processed.