Collagen is widely known as an abundant protein in our connective tissues, or skin, which gives it structural support and elasticity. While our body produces its own collagen, it tends to decrease production over time, which is why it may be beneficial to supplement through things like foods, vitamins, or collagen powders. However, when considering which supplements to take, it is important to remember that not all collagens are created equal.
Clean collagen refers to collagen sourced and manufactured with added standards for quality and transparency. Let’s break down exactly what clean collagen is, and why it is important to keep an eye out for products that are resourced with a certain amount of care and thoughtfulness when it comes to collagen intake.
If you’d like to learn more about the external benefits of collagen, check out How Collagen and Biotin Can Be Included in a Daily Routine for Beauty Benefits.
What Makes Collagen ‘Clean’
There is a vast difference between collagens that are sourced cleanly and ones that are not. So, what does it mean for a collagen to be “clean”? Clean collagen refers to products that are sourced directly from animals raised without:
- Harmful antibiotics
- Hormones
- GMOs
And are free from artificial ingredients like:
- Fillers
- Harsh solvents
- Artificial colors/flavors
In fact, clean collagen is ethically sourced and often comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle or wild-caught fish. More reputable brands, such as Vital Proteins®, are also third-party tested to help ensure quality and purity.
Where Vital Proteins® Collagen Comes From
Vital Proteins®’ ethically sourced collagen is made from bovine, or cow hides, derived from pasture-raised, grass-fed cows. Pasture-raised ensures that the cows were allowed to graze outdoors rather than being confined to a feedlot, which means they were given free access to fresh air, grass, and water.
The cattle used to create collagen are also not raised for that specific purpose; instead, they are repurposed as animal byproducts, such as skin and hide, into a beneficial supplemental product. This way, it supports a responsible use of existing resources in the meat industry through the process of upcycling.
Sourcing Transparency: How Vital Proteins® Ensures Clean Collagen
If you’re asking, “Where does Vital Proteins® source their collagen?”, the answer can be provided clearly due to the transparency of the practice. Vital Proteins® is committed to sourcing products in line with responsible standards, supporting traceability, and promoting positive change across the supply chain. It is important to use suppliers that uphold similar ethical and environmental standards, that engage them to continuously improve sustainability practices.
Benefits of Using Clean Collagen
Collagen is an essential protein that supports a number of functions:
- Supports Skin Health & Elasticity**
- Supports Bone & Joint health**
- Supports healthy Hair & Nails**
Vital Proteins® offers a variety of collagen products, like the classic Collagen Peptides, that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine. Whether blended into your morning coffee with Collagen Creamer, or tea or smoothie with Matcha Collagen, collagen peptides work from within to help support skin hydration and elasticity, which is especially important for both dry and oily skin. If you struggle with oily skin, check out Oily Skin: What Causes It and How to Prevent It.**
Or try Collagen Peptides Beauty Edition for a full internal beauty workup. If you’re curious about how to transform your skin from the inside out, you can learn more about it in How to Improve Skin Texture.
Start Your Clean Collagen Journey
At the heart of wellness is the concept of transparency, of knowing what exactly you’re putting into your body and where it’s coming from. Your food intake should reflect quality, sustainability, and integrity, which is why Vital Proteins® has committed to responsibly and sustainably sourcing its ingredients.
Whether you’re looking to support your skin, hair, or overall wellness, choosing clean collagen means choosing a brand committed to responsible sourcing.
**These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease