Marine collagen

Marine collagen is collagen from fish skin and scales, sold as powder, sachets, liquid or tablets.

By the Supplements UK editorial team. Last checked 9 October 2026. General information, not medical advice.

Short answer Marine collagen is collagen from fish skin and scales, sold as powder, sachets, liquid or tablets. It is mostly type I, the type most abundant in skin. There is no good evidence that it works better than collagen from other sources.

Marine against bovine

Both are hydrolysed into peptides and both are mainly type I. Marine collagen suits people who avoid beef or pork; bovine suits those who avoid fish. Claims that fish collagen is absorbed far better rest on little human evidence.

What to check on the label

Marine collagen checklist
CheckWhy
Collagen per servingTrials commonly used 2.5g to 10g a day
Source and speciesMatters for allergies and for sustainability
Added vitamin CThe nutrient with an authorised claim for collagen formation
Allergen statementFish must be declared

Who should avoid it

Anyone with a fish or shellfish allergy, and anyone advised to limit protein. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, ask a midwife or pharmacist first.

Keep exploring

Questions people ask

Is marine collagen better than bovine?

There is no strong evidence that it is.

Is marine collagen vegetarian?

No. It comes from fish.

Can I take this with medication?

Ask a pharmacist or GP first; some supplements interact with medicines.

Do supplements replace a balanced diet?

No. They are meant to add to a varied diet, not stand in for one.

Sources

Checked 9 October 2026.