Understanding Collagen Types: Bovine vs Marine and How to Choose the Right One

Collagen is a foundational protein in the human body, making up around 30% of total protein content and playing a vital role in maintaining skin elasticity, joint integrity, bone strength, connective tissue cohesion, and even gut lining structure. As we age, natural collagen production declines significantly — by up to 1% per year after our mid-20s — which contributes to visible signs of ageing, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, joint pain, and slower muscle recovery.

Collagen supplementation has therefore become a cornerstone of preventative and functional health strategies. But not all collagen is the same. With a growing array of supplement formats, sources, and formulations, it’s essential to understand the types of collagen, source differences, absorption factors, and specific health applications. This article dives into the science and practical considerations of choosing between bovine and marine collagen, and features real product examples from trusted Australian brand Nutra Organics, available through Eco Traders.

What Is Collagen? An Overview of Structure and Function

Collagen is a fibrous protein composed primarily of three amino acids: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These amino acids are arranged in a unique triple-helix structure, giving collagen its remarkable tensile strength and structural integrity.

There are 28 known types of collagen, but the following are most relevant to human health and supplementation:

• Type I – The most abundant type, found in skin, tendons, ligaments, bones, and teeth. It provides structure and resistance to tension.

• Type II – Primarily found in cartilage. It cushions joints and is essential for joint health and flexibility.

• Type III – Found in organs, skin, blood vessels, and muscles. Often paired with Type I to improve elasticity and firmness.

• Type V and X – Support cell membranes, placenta development, and cartilage mineralisation respectively.

The functionality of collagen varies by type, which means the source material of a supplement influences the health outcomes it supports.

Bovine Collagen: Comprehensive Structural Support for Skin, Joints & Muscles

Source: Derived from cowhide, bones, and connective tissues
Collagen types present: Primarily Type I and Type III

Bovine collagen is widely studied and offers broad-spectrum support due to its dual action on skin health and musculoskeletal structure. It is ideal for those seeking to:

• Improve skin firmness, hydration, and elasticity

• Promote strong, flexible joints and tendons

• Accelerate muscle recovery and tissue repair

• Strengthen hair and nails

• Support gut lining and digestive integrity

Compared to marine collagen, bovine collagen offers a slightly more complete amino acid profile and typically includes a higher proportion of Type III, which supports vascular and dermal elasticity.

🔍 Featured Products from Eco Traders:

• Nutra Organics Collagen Beauty – A blend of hydrolysed bovine collagen peptides with added vitamin C and zinc, supporting skin hydration, firmness, and healthy hair and nails.

• Nutra Organics Collagen Body – Fortified with FORTIBONE®, a clinically studied bioactive peptide that supports bone density and joint function, along with vitamin D and calcium.

• Nutra Organics Collagen Build – Designed for active lifestyles, containing collagen peptides plus magnesium and calcium to support lean muscle mass, post-exercise recovery, and joint resilience.

Marine Collagen: High Bioavailability for Skin, Hair, and Anti-Ageing

Source: Extracted from the skin and scales of sustainably sourced fish
Collagen types present: Exclusively Type I

Marine collagen is prized for its high bioavailability — up to 1.5 times more absorbable than bovine collagen — making it an excellent choice for:

• Enhancing skin hydration and reducing fine lines and wrinkles

• Supporting stronger, faster-growing nails and hair

• Providing a pescatarian-friendly, allergen-sensitive option

• Supporting healthy ageing with minimal calories or additives

Marine collagen is lower in Type III, but its small peptide size makes it ideal for targeted skin and beauty formulations.

🔍 Featured Product from Eco Traders:

• Nutra Organics Marine Collagen Beauty – Contains wild-caught marine collagen peptides, vitamin C, and zinc, scientifically formulated to improve skin radiance and elasticity while promoting hair and nail strength. It’s sustainably sourced and flavoured for ease of daily use.

Comparing Bovine and Marine Collagen: Which Is Right for You?

Note: Vitamin C and trace minerals like zinc and silica are critical cofactors in collagen synthesis. Always choose a formula that includes them or consume alongside a nutrient-dense diet.

Understanding Bioavailability and Peptide Profiles

The absorption of collagen depends largely on its hydrolysis (enzymatic breakdown into peptides) and molecular weight. Marine collagen typically has smaller peptide chains (1–5 kDa) versus bovine (3–6 kDa), enhancing absorption speed. However, both types — when hydrolysed — offer high bioavailability if formulated correctly.

The peptide profile also matters:

• Proline and glycine are essential for skin and wound repair

• Hydroxyproline is specific to collagen and vital for skin elasticity

• Glutamine and arginine play supportive roles in gut health and immune regulation

How to Take Collagen for Best Results

Collagen is best consumed consistently, ideally daily, and paired with vitamin C-rich foods or supplements to aid endogenous production. Dosages range from 2.5g (for skin hydration) to 10g (for joint support and recovery).

Tips:

• Mix into coffee, smoothies, soups, yoghurt, or oats

• Unflavoured options integrate easily into savoury or sweet meals

• Flavoured versions are ideal for morning wellness routines

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right collagen depends on your personal health goals, dietary preferences, and lifestyle. Bovine collagen is a great all-rounder for skin, joints, and muscular recovery, while marine collagen is perfect for those prioritising beauty, bioavailability, or pescatarian diets.

Nutra Organics offers a science-backed, sustainably sourced range of both bovine and marine collagen options — all available through Eco Traders — ensuring purity, traceability, and effectiveness. Whether you’re just beginning your collagen journey or refining your current supplement routine, knowing the difference between sources will help you make smarter, more targeted wellness choices.

Explore the full collagen collection and start your routine today:
👉 https://ecotraders.com.au/collections/collagen