Verifying the effectiveness of dietary supplements, such as collagen, is a complex task. They would have to be taken over several years, and even so, it would be difficult to guarantee that the effects are directly linked to their consumption rather than to an overall healthy lifestyle. In our evaluation of marine collagens, we focused primarily on their composition. We examined their type, origin and dosage. In addition, we evaluated their presentation, the size of their capsules/tablets, and for the powders to dilute, we also took into account their taste. We also penalized products that lacked transparency in their marketing, including those that did not indicate the specific type of collagen used, did not provide dosage information when multiple types were present, or claimed to have an effect on cartilage when they did not contain type II collagen, for example.
The selection of the 3 best marine collagens to choose in 2024
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Zenement Marine Collagen Complex (90 days): the cheapest of good quality
This type I marine collagen complex is the most economical option in our comparison. Each dose of 2 capsules offers 900 mg of collagen, beneficial for the skin, tendons, bones and ligaments. One jar contains 180 capsules, equivalent to a 3-month treatment. In addition, these capsules contain hyaluronic acid (50 mg) known for its anti-aging effects, coenzyme Q10 (30 mg) as an antioxidant, and they provide 100% of the daily reference intake (RDA) in vitamins C and E, as well as 100% of the RDA for zinc. The latter plays an essential role in the fight against skin aging, helping to maintain the health of the skin, nails and hair. In summary, this food supplement is mainly intended for anti-aging aesthetic purposes. However, during our testing, we noticed that the capsules were slightly larger than average and had a strong fishy odor. The opaque black jar provides adequate protection from light, but it should be stored in a cool, dry place, as is generally recommended for dietary supplements. The main disadvantage of this complex lies in the lack of precision regarding the origin of the fish used in its manufacture.
Most :
- Affordable price
- Adequate collagen dosage (900 mg per dose)
- Contains hyaluronic acid, coenzyme Q10, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc
- Anti-aging effect on skin, hair and nails
- One pot lasts for 3 months
- Opaque black pot to protect from light
The lessers :
- Slightly larger capsules
- Strong fishy smell
- Origin of fish not specified
Nutrimea Marine Collagen Type I & II (30 days): the best value for money
This collagen comes from Breton fishing in a circular and sustainable development approach, which we particularly appreciated. During our tests, we noticed that the capsules were quite large (more than 2 cm), but that they remained quite thin, which made them easier to swallow. The dark pot protects them from light. Finally, be aware that it was the collagen that smelled the weakest of all those we tested. What we particularly appreciated with this collagen is that the laboratory specifies the dosage for each of the 2 collagens and includes vitamins of natural origin. Thus, we know that each day, the 3 capsules provide 400 mg of type I collagen (skin, tendons, ligaments, bones) and 500 mg of type II (cartilage, vitreous body of the eye) for a total of 900 mg . In addition to that, there is 75% of the RDA (recommended daily intake) for vitamin C (acerola), 100% for vitamin E (soy) and 15% for vitamin A (Blakeslea trispora). Finally, the main weak point of this supplement is that you have to take the pot everywhere with you, because you have to take one capsule with each meal.
Most :
- Collagen from Breton fishing in a circular and sustainable development approach
- Precise dosage for each type of collagen (I and II)
- Low fishy odor compared to other products tested
- Conveniently sized capsules for easy ingestion
- Dark jar to protect the capsules from light
The lessers :
- Need to take a capsule with each meal, which can be restrictive
- The origin of the fish used is not specified.
Nutri&Co Peach Collagen (31 days): the highest dose
To take this collagen powder, you need to mix 2 scoops with 200ml of water or another drink, and a measuring spoon is included in the sachet for easy preparation. We chose the peach flavor for our test, but it is also available in mint-cucumber and cocoa. In the case of peach, we noticed that it smelled more like peach than it actually tasted (the powder alone smells fishy). However, with no sweetener and natural flavors, this was our favorite drink of the four we tested. Each serving of 2 pods contains 5 g of type I collagen (skin, tendons, bones, ligaments) and 500 mg of type II (vitreous body of the eye, cartilages), as well as 30% of the daily reference intake in vitamin C, which promotes the production of collagen. We recommend this collagen to people over 40 for its potential benefits on joint pain and its anti-aging effect. The sachet is practical, closing securely to protect the powder from light, and it contains 62 pods for a 31-day course.
Most :
- Ease of use with a measuring spoon included
- Varied choice of flavors (peach, mint-cucumber, cocoa)
- Without sweetener and with natural flavors
- Contains 5 g of type I collagen and 500 mg of type II collagen per serving
- Contribution of 30% of the vitamin C necessary for the formation of collagen
- Practical sachet which protects the powder from light.
The lessers :
- Peach flavor may smell stronger than actual taste
- Requires mixing powder with water or drink
- Price may be high compared to other collagen supplements
Other models tested
- Essentials by Novoma Marine Collagen and Hyauronic Acid : This solution is made exclusively from the French company Naticol® type I marine collagen, sourced from sustainably caught wild fish. It is free of GMOs and gluten. Two capsules provide 800 mg of collagen, 63% of the daily reference intake of vitamin C and 50 mg of hyaluronic acid. These characteristics make it a valuable beauty ally recommended from 25-30 years old to reduce the first wrinkles. During our testing, we noted that although the capsules are quite large (measuring over 2 cm), they are thin enough to make them easy to swallow.
- Granions Collagen+ Beauty : During our testing, the taste of this collagen powder proved unappealing, sparking mixed reactions. Although the formula contains concentrated pomegranate juice without sweetener, it does not completely mask the taste. Each 2-pod serving provides 9 g of marine type I collagen, 100% of the recommended vitamin C, and 200% biotin to promote healthy, elastic skin while reducing signs of aging. However, the origin of the fish used remains poorly documented. If you plan to use this product for aesthetic purposes, it is advisable to experiment with various combinations to improve the taste.
- Gloryfeel Marine Collagen : In addition to the absence of information on the origin of the type I collagen used, it is important to note that these capsules are extremely bulky, being able to easily contain two conventional capsules, which complicates their taking.
4 key criteria for choosing your marine collagen
According to our product experts, here are the key criteria to consider when choosing your marine collagen.
Beneficial vitamins and supplements
- From an anti-aging point of view, taking hyaluronic acid offers undeniable benefits, improving the hydration and firmness of the skin, while reducing fine lines.
- At the same time, vitamin C stimulates collagen production, strengthens the immune system and has antioxidant properties, making it a valuable medical asset as we age.
- To find out the dosages that should not be exceeded, it is recommended to consult the EFSA infographic.
The benefits
- Although it seems obvious that consuming certain types of collagen could have benefits for the skin, joints, tendons, etc., it is important to note that the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has noted that a study demonstrated the absence of a cause and effect relationship between taking collagen hydrolyzate and maintaining joint health.
- Thus, it is essential to emphasize that collagen is not a miracle solution.
The dosage
- Determining the optimal dose of collagen to take can be tricky. Recommendations vary, from 2.5g per day in capsules to 20g powder mixed in a shake, similar to some sports proteins.
- However, it is important to note that an overdose generally does not pose serious risks, other than mild digestive upset, for a healthy adult person.
Age
- In medical terms, it is advisable to start taking collagen from the age of 40, as this is when the natural production of collagen begins to decrease in the body.
- However, when it comes to beauty treatments and the anti-aging effect, it is recommended to start taking it from the age of 25 to 30 to reduce the signs of aging, such as wrinkles.