10 Best Marine Collagen Supplements (2026) Reviewed
Marine collagen has emerged as one of the most sought-after collagen sources, prized for its superior bioavailability and sustainability. Derived from fish scales and skin, marine collagen contains primarily Type I collagen—the most abundant type in human skin, hair, nails, and bones—making it an excellent choice for those focused on beauty and anti-aging benefits.
Research suggests that marine collagen peptides may be absorbed up to 1.5 times more efficiently than bovine or porcine collagen due to their smaller molecular size. This makes marine collagen particularly appealing for pescatarians, those avoiding mammalian products, or anyone seeking maximum absorption from their collagen supplement.
We researched dozens of marine collagen products, cross-referencing Amazon listings, third-party review sites like Healthline and ConsumerLab, and manufacturer specifications to identify the 10 best marine collagen supplements currently available. Our selections span various forms, price points, and specialized formulations to help you find the right fit for your needs.
Table of Contents
- Quick Comparison Table
- Marine Collagen by Form: Powder vs. Capsules
- Individual Product Reviews
- Marine Collagen Buying Guide
- How to Take Marine Collagen
- Potential Benefits of Marine Collagen
- Safety Considerations
- Frequently Asked Questions
- The Bottom Line
Quick Comparison Table
| Product | Form | Serving Size | Key Differentiator | Best For | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vital Proteins Marine Collagen | Powder | 12g collagen | Wild-caught Alaskan cod, Whole30 approved | Overall quality seekers | 🏆 TOP PICK |
| Sports Research Marine Collagen | Powder | 10g collagen | Keto certified, NSF tested | Active lifestyles | 🥇 Best Value |
| AMANDEAN Marine Collagen | Powder | 10g collagen | Double-hydrolyzed, North Atlantic sourced | Maximum absorption | 🥇 Best Absorption |
| Further Food Marine Collagen | Powder | 12g collagen | Types I, II & III, gut health focus | Digestive support | 🥇 Best for Gut Health |
| Orgain Marine Collagen | Powder | 12g collagen | Wild-caught Alaskan Pollock | Budget-conscious buyers | 🥇 Best Budget Powder |
| Micro Ingredients Marine Collagen | Powder | 12g collagen | 1lb bag, 37 servings | Bulk buyers | 🥇 Best Bulk Value |
| Codeage Marine Collagen Powder | Powder | 9g collagen | Pure single-ingredient, 50-day supply | Purists | 🥇 Cleanest Formula |
| Codeage Biotin Marine Collagen | Capsules | 2g collagen + biotin | 10,000mcg biotin, vitamins C & E | Hair, skin & nails | 🥇 Best Capsules |
| NeoCell Marine Collagen | Capsules | 2g collagen | Hyaluronic acid included, trusted brand | Collagen beginners | 🥇 Best for Beginners |
| It’s Just! Marine Collagen | Powder | 12g collagen | Heavy metal tested, simple formula | Value seekers | 🥇 Best Simple Formula |
Marine Collagen by Form: Powder vs. Capsules
Powder Form
Marine collagen powders offer the highest collagen content per serving (typically 10-12g) and maximum versatility. They dissolve easily in hot or cold beverages, smoothies, and recipes. Powders are ideal for those seeking therapeutic doses and don’t mind the extra step of mixing. Most quality marine collagen powders are unflavored and don’t impart a fishy taste when properly processed.
Pros: Higher collagen per serving, more economical per gram, versatile usage options, faster absorption potential
Cons: Requires mixing, less convenient for travel, some may notice slight ocean taste in lower-quality products
Capsule Form
Capsules provide convenience and precise dosing without any taste concerns. However, they typically deliver lower collagen amounts per serving (1-3g) due to capsule size limitations. You’ll often need 4-6 capsules daily to approach powder-equivalent doses. Capsules are excellent for those prioritizing convenience or who dislike powder textures.
Pros: No taste, highly portable, precise dosing, no mixing required
Cons: Lower collagen per serving, higher cost per gram of collagen, more pills to swallow
Individual Product Reviews
Vital Proteins Marine Collagen Peptides — Best Overall
Vital Proteins delivers a premium marine collagen experience with exceptional sourcing, high collagen content, and widespread third-party validation, making it our top overall pick.
Vital Proteins has established itself as the leading name in collagen supplements, and their Marine Collagen lives up to that reputation. Sourced from the scales of wild-caught white fish (primarily cod) off the coast of Alaska, this powder provides 12g of highly bioavailable collagen peptides per serving. The company emphasizes sustainability and quality, sourcing from non-GMO, wild-caught fish in pristine northern waters.
What sets Vital Proteins apart is their commitment to transparency and quality testing. The product is Whole30 approved and Paleo-friendly, making it accessible to those following specialty diets. The powder dissolves cleanly in both hot and cold liquids with minimal to no fishy taste—a common complaint with lesser marine collagens. Users consistently report improvements in hair thickness, skin hydration, and nail strength after several weeks of use.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 12g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught Alaskan white fish
- Certifications: Non-GMO, Whole30 Approved, Paleo-friendly
- Container size: 7.8 oz (approximately 18 servings)
- Additional ingredients: None—single ingredient formula
Considerations: Premium pricing may be a barrier for some. The 7.8oz container provides fewer servings than some competitors at similar price points.
Sports Research Marine Collagen Peptides — Best Value
Sports Research offers an exceptional balance of quality certifications, solid collagen content, and reasonable pricing, making it the best value option for most users.
Sports Research has built a strong reputation in the supplement industry by combining quality ingredients with competitive pricing. Their Marine Collagen Peptides powder delivers 10g of Type I and III collagen per serving from wild-caught fish, along with 18 amino acids including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. The company’s commitment to third-party testing includes Keto certification, Non-GMO verification, and Paleo-friendly designation.
The formula emphasizes low molecular weight peptides for enhanced digestibility and absorption. Sports Research manufactures in the USA in cGMP-certified facilities, adding another layer of quality assurance. The 34-serving container offers excellent value, and users appreciate that the powder mixes smoothly without clumping or leaving residue.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 10g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught fish
- Certifications: Keto Certified, Non-GMO Verified, Paleo-friendly
- Container size: 12 oz (34 servings)
- Additional ingredients: None
Considerations: Slightly lower collagen per serving (10g vs. 12g) compared to some competitors. Some users report the powder works best when added to warm liquids first.
AMANDEAN Marine Collagen Peptides — Best for Absorption
AMANDEAN’s double-hydrolyzed formula and sustainable North Atlantic sourcing make it the top choice for those prioritizing maximum collagen absorption.
AMANDEAN differentiates itself through its double-hydrolyzed processing method, which breaks collagen peptides down into even smaller fragments for enhanced absorption. Their marine collagen is sourced from wild-caught whitefish (cod, pollock, haddock, and hake) from the pristine waters of the North Atlantic Ocean, ensuring a clean and sustainable source.
The company is a small, women-owned business that emphasizes transparency and quality. Each batch undergoes third-party lab testing, and the formula contains no additives, preservatives, or artificial ingredients. With 50 servings per container, it offers excellent value. The brand has developed a loyal following among users who report visible improvements in skin elasticity and nail strength.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 10g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught North Atlantic whitefish
- Certifications: Non-GMO, third-party tested, plastic neutral
- Container size: 17.6 oz (50 servings)
- Processing: Double-hydrolyzed for enhanced absorption
Considerations: Best dissolved in warm liquids; may take slightly longer to mix in cold beverages. The company recommends pairing with vitamin C for optimal absorption.
Further Food Marine Collagen Peptides — Best for Gut Health
Further Food’s marine collagen stands out with its inclusion of Types I, II, and III collagen, making it particularly beneficial for those seeking digestive and gut health support.
Further Food takes a holistic approach to marine collagen, formulating their product with gut health in mind. Unlike most marine collagens that focus solely on Type I, Further Food includes Types I, II, and III, providing more comprehensive support for the intestinal lining and digestive wellness. The collagen is sustainably sourced from wild-caught North Atlantic codfish.
The brand emphasizes that they use only “real food” ingredients with no preservatives, artificial flavors, or unnecessary additives. Further Food is a women-owned small business committed to transparency, and all products are manufactured in NSF cGMP-certified facilities in the USA. The formula is particularly popular among those dealing with digestive issues or following protocols that emphasize gut healing.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 12g (Types I, II & III)
- Source: Wild-caught North Atlantic codfish
- Certifications: Non-GMO, Keto, Paleo, Sugar-free
- Container size: 5.93 oz
- Special feature: Includes Type II collagen for gut support
Considerations: Smaller container size means you’ll need to reorder more frequently. Type II collagen content is lower than Types I and III.
Orgain Marine Collagen Peptides — Best Budget Powder
Orgain brings their reputation for clean, affordable nutrition to marine collagen with a high-quality wild-caught formula at a budget-friendly price point.
Orgain has built a loyal following for providing clean, high-quality supplements without premium pricing, and their Marine Collagen continues this tradition. Sourced from wild-caught Alaskan Pollock, the powder delivers 12g of Type I and III collagen per serving with excellent bioavailability. The company emphasizes that marine collagen is absorbed more readily than bovine-derived alternatives.
What makes Orgain particularly appealing is their commitment to clean ingredients. The formula is free from gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial additives. The company was founded by a physician and cancer survivor, bringing a health-focused perspective to all their products. Users appreciate that the powder has virtually no taste or odor, making it easy to add to any beverage.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 12g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught Alaskan Pollock
- Certifications: Non-GMO, Paleo-friendly, Pescatarian
- Container size: 8.5 oz
- Free from: Gluten, dairy, soy, artificial ingredients
Considerations: Relatively new to the marine collagen market compared to established brands. Container size provides fewer servings than some competitors.
Micro Ingredients Marine Collagen — Best Bulk Value
Micro Ingredients delivers exceptional value with their 1-pound bag of marine collagen, making it ideal for committed collagen users who want to buy in bulk.
For those who’ve already discovered the benefits of marine collagen and want to stock up, Micro Ingredients offers outstanding value with their 1-pound (16 oz) bag providing approximately 37 servings of 12g collagen each. The formula uses Type I marine collagen from wild-caught fish, hydrolyzed for efficient absorption.
Micro Ingredients emphasizes purity, with each batch undergoing third-party lab testing for safety and potency. The product is free from soy, dairy, gluten, and tree nuts, making it suitable for those with common allergies. The resealable pouch format helps maintain freshness, and the included scoop makes dosing straightforward.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 12g (Type I)
- Source: Wild-caught fish
- Certifications: Non-GMO, third-party tested
- Container size: 1 lb (37 servings)
- Free from: Soy, dairy, gluten, tree nuts
Considerations: Only contains Type I collagen (no Type III). Pouch format may be less convenient than rigid containers for some users.
Codeage Marine Collagen Powder — Cleanest Formula
Codeage’s pure marine collagen powder offers a no-frills, single-ingredient formula for those who want collagen without any extras.
Codeage has carved out a niche for premium, thoughtfully formulated supplements, and their Marine Collagen Powder exemplifies this approach. The formula contains nothing but hydrolyzed marine collagen peptides from wild-caught white fish in North American cold waters. This purist approach appeals to those who want full control over their supplement stack without overlapping ingredients.
Each container provides a generous 50-day supply with 9g of collagen per serving. The powder is completely unflavored and mixes easily into beverages without altering taste. Codeage manufactures in the USA in cGMP-certified facilities and provides 18 amino acids per serving. The formula is meatless and shellfish-free, making it suitable for pescatarians.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 9g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught North American white fish
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free
- Container size: 15.87 oz (50 servings)
- Special feature: Zero carbs, no additives
Considerations: Slightly lower collagen per serving (9g) than some competitors. Premium pricing reflects the brand positioning.
Codeage Biotin Marine Collagen Capsules — Best Capsules
For those who prefer capsules, Codeage’s Biotin Marine Collagen combines collagen with beauty-boosting nutrients like biotin, vitamins C & E, and hyaluronic acid in a convenient pill format.
Codeage Biotin Marine Collagen capsules represent the most comprehensive capsule-form marine collagen on the market. Beyond Type I and III marine collagen peptides, the formula includes 10,000mcg of biotin, vitamins C and E, hyaluronic acid, and an organic fruit and herb blend featuring amla berry, rose hip, camu camu, and tremella mushroom.
This all-in-one approach makes it ideal for those seeking a complete hair, skin, and nail supplement without multiple bottles. The collagen is sourced from wild-caught white fish from North America and is free from shellfish. With 30 servings per bottle, it provides a full month’s supply. The methylcellulose capsules are also suitable for those avoiding gelatin.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 2g marine collagen (4 capsules)
- Source: Wild-caught North American white fish
- Bonus ingredients: 10,000mcg biotin, vitamin C, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid
- Container size: 120 capsules (30 servings)
- Certifications: Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free
Considerations: Lower collagen dose than powders (2g vs. 10-12g). Requires taking 4 capsules daily. Premium pricing reflects the comprehensive formula.
NeoCell Marine Collagen Capsules — Best for Beginners
NeoCell’s Marine Collagen capsules offer an approachable entry point into marine collagen supplementation from a trusted brand with nearly 30 years of collagen expertise.
NeoCell has been a pioneer in the collagen supplement space since 1998, giving them unmatched experience in formulation and quality. Their Marine Collagen capsules combine Type I and III collagen with hyaluronic acid—a powerful combination for skin hydration. The formula also includes a vitamin and mineral blend to support healthy collagen formation.
The product is IGEN Non-GMO tested, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly, making it accessible to most dietary preferences. NeoCell’s long track record provides confidence in consistency and quality. The capsule format makes it perfect for those just starting their collagen journey who aren’t ready to commit to powder mixing.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 2g (Type I & III, 4 capsules)
- Source: Fish collagen
- Bonus ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin/mineral blend
- Container size: 120 capsules (30 servings)
- Certifications: IGEN Non-GMO tested, gluten-free, paleo-friendly
Considerations: Lower collagen content per serving than powders. Requires 4 capsules daily. Some users may eventually want to upgrade to higher-dose powder forms.
It’s Just! Marine Collagen — Best Simple Formula
It’s Just! delivers a straightforward, heavy-metal-tested marine collagen powder at an attractive price point for value-conscious consumers who prioritize simplicity.
It’s Just! takes a back-to-basics approach with their Marine Collagen, focusing on quality sourcing and rigorous testing without premium pricing. The powder is made from wild-caught cod whitefish and provides 12g of Type I and III collagen per serving. What sets this product apart is the company’s emphasis on heavy metal testing—a critical consideration for fish-derived supplements.
The formula contains no added flavors, sweeteners, or unnecessary ingredients. It’s Just! manufactures in a GMP-compliant facility in the USA and provides transparent sourcing information. Users report that the powder dissolves well and has no fishy taste or smell, making it easy to incorporate into daily routines.
Key Specifications:
- Collagen per serving: 12g (Type I & III)
- Source: Wild-caught cod whitefish
- Certifications: GMP-manufactured, heavy metal tested, gluten-free, Non-GMO
- Container size: 20 oz
- Special feature: Third-party tested for heavy metals
Considerations: Newer brand with less market presence than established competitors. Limited information about specific fish sourcing locations.
Marine Collagen Buying Guide
What to Look For
Source and Sustainability: The best marine collagen comes from wild-caught fish, ideally from clean, cold waters like the North Atlantic or Alaska. Look for products that specify their fish sources (cod, pollock, haddock) rather than generic “fish collagen.” Sustainable fishing certifications add another layer of quality assurance.
Collagen Type: Marine collagen is primarily Type I, the most abundant collagen in human skin. Some products also include Type III, which works synergistically with Type I for skin and connective tissue support. Type II collagen (found in some formulas) primarily supports cartilage and joint health.
Hydrolyzation: All quality marine collagen should be hydrolyzed (broken into peptides) for better absorption. Some products are “double-hydrolyzed” for even smaller peptide fragments and potentially enhanced bioavailability.
Third-Party Testing: Given that fish can accumulate heavy metals, look for products that undergo third-party testing for mercury, lead, and other contaminants. Certifications like Non-GMO verification, Keto certification, and NSF testing indicate quality commitment.
Additional Ingredients: Some products include complementary nutrients like vitamin C (supports collagen synthesis), hyaluronic acid (enhances skin hydration), or biotin (supports hair and nail health). Decide whether you prefer a pure collagen or an all-in-one formula.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Vague sourcing (just “fish collagen” without specifying type or origin)
- No third-party testing claims
- Artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners
- Unrealistic health claims (cure or treatment language)
- Unusually low pricing that seems too good to be true
- Products that don’t specify whether they contain shellfish (important for allergies)
Powder vs. Capsules: How to Choose
Choose powder if you want maximum collagen per serving (10-12g), better value per gram of collagen, the flexibility to add to various foods and drinks, and don’t mind the extra step of mixing.
Choose capsules if convenience is your top priority, you travel frequently, you’re sensitive to taste or texture, or you prefer precise, pre-measured doses without any preparation.
How to Take Marine Collagen
Recommended Dosage
Research on collagen supplementation generally supports doses between 2.5g and 15g daily for skin health benefits. Most marine collagen powders provide 10-12g per serving, which falls within the effective range used in clinical studies. For capsule forms providing lower doses (2-3g), consistent daily use over several months may be necessary to see comparable results.
Best Time to Take
Marine collagen can be taken at any time of day. Some prefer morning consumption with coffee or smoothies as part of their routine. Others take it before bed, as the body’s repair processes are active during sleep. Consistency matters more than timing—choose a time that works for your schedule.
Usage Tips by Form
Powders: Add to coffee, tea, smoothies, soups, or oatmeal. Start by adding powder to a small amount of warm liquid to help it dissolve, then add more liquid. Most quality marine collagen powders dissolve in both hot and cold liquids, though warm liquids typically work faster.
Capsules: Take with water, preferably with or after meals to aid digestion. Spread your dose throughout the day if taking multiple capsules (e.g., 2 with breakfast, 2 with dinner).
Duration and Expectations
Collagen supplementation is not an overnight solution. Most research suggests benefits become noticeable after 4-12 weeks of consistent use. Skin hydration improvements may appear earlier (4-6 weeks), while changes to hair and nail growth typically take longer (8-12 weeks) due to natural growth cycles. Plan to commit to at least 3 months of consistent use before evaluating results.
Potential Benefits of Marine Collagen
Skin Health: Research suggests marine collagen supplementation may help improve skin elasticity, hydration, and the appearance of fine lines. A 2018 review in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that collagen supplementation increased skin hydration and elasticity in multiple studies.
Hair and Nail Support: Collagen provides amino acids that serve as building blocks for keratin, the protein that makes up hair and nails. Users commonly report improvements in hair thickness, nail strength, and reduced brittleness after several months of supplementation.
Joint Support: While Type II collagen is more commonly associated with joint health, the amino acids in marine collagen (particularly glycine and proline) may help support cartilage and connective tissue throughout the body.
Gut Health: The amino acid glycine, abundant in marine collagen, may support the intestinal lining. Some research suggests collagen peptides could help maintain gut barrier function, though more studies are needed in this area.
Superior Bioavailability: Marine collagen peptides have a smaller molecular size than bovine or porcine collagen, which may allow for faster and more efficient absorption. Research suggests marine collagen may be absorbed up to 1.5 times more effectively than other collagen sources.
Safety Considerations
Potential Side Effects
Marine collagen is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild digestive symptoms when first starting supplementation, including bloating, fullness, or mild stomach discomfort. These effects typically subside as the body adjusts. Starting with a half dose and gradually increasing can help minimize any initial digestive adjustment.
Who Should Avoid Marine Collagen
- Fish or shellfish allergies: Marine collagen is derived from fish and may trigger reactions in those with fish allergies. Most products are shellfish-free, but always verify on the label.
- Pregnant or nursing women: Should consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
- Those on medications: Individuals taking blood thinners or other medications should consult their doctor, as collagen contains amino acids that could theoretically interact with certain drugs.
Drug Interactions
While significant drug interactions with marine collagen are not commonly reported, the calcium content in some collagen products could potentially interfere with certain medications. Additionally, if your marine collagen contains added vitamins (like vitamin C or E), be aware of potential interactions with medications affected by those nutrients.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
Speak with a healthcare provider before starting marine collagen if you have known fish allergies, are pregnant or nursing, take prescription medications, have a history of kidney stones or kidney disease, or have any chronic health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is marine collagen better than bovine collagen?
Marine collagen has higher bioavailability due to its smaller peptide size, potentially allowing for better absorption. It’s also preferred by pescatarians and those avoiding mammalian products. However, both types provide Type I collagen and can be effective. The “best” choice depends on your dietary preferences and priorities.
Does marine collagen have a fishy taste?
Quality marine collagen that’s properly hydrolyzed should have minimal to no fishy taste or smell. All products in our roundup are noted for being essentially flavorless when mixed into beverages. Lower-quality products or those not properly processed may have more noticeable fish taste.
Can I take marine collagen if I have a shellfish allergy?
Most marine collagen is derived from fish scales and skin, not shellfish. However, cross-contamination is possible in some facilities. Look for products specifically labeled “shellfish-free” and verify with the manufacturer if you have severe allergies.
How long does it take to see results from marine collagen?
Most users report noticing improvements in skin hydration within 4-6 weeks. Hair and nail benefits typically take 8-12 weeks or longer due to natural growth cycles. Joint support benefits may take several months of consistent use to become apparent.
Can I take marine collagen while pregnant?
While marine collagen is generally considered safe, pregnant and nursing women should consult their healthcare provider before starting any new supplement. Some products may contain ingredients beyond collagen that require additional consideration during pregnancy.
Does cooking destroy marine collagen?
No, hydrolyzed marine collagen (collagen peptides) can withstand normal cooking temperatures. You can add it to hot coffee, soups, and baked goods without destroying its benefits. The hydrolyzation process has already broken down the collagen into stable peptide fragments.
Is it safe to take marine collagen every day?
Yes, daily supplementation is both safe and recommended for optimal results. Research studies showing collagen benefits typically involve daily use over extended periods. Consistency is key to seeing results.
Can I take too much marine collagen?
While collagen is generally safe, extremely high doses may cause digestive discomfort. Most people do well with 10-15g daily. There’s limited evidence that exceeding this amount provides additional benefits. If you’re taking multiple collagen products, be mindful of your total daily intake.
What’s the difference between Type I, II, and III collagen?
Type I collagen is the most abundant in humans and supports skin, hair, nails, bones, and tendons. Type II primarily supports cartilage and joints. Type III works alongside Type I in skin and blood vessels. Marine collagen is predominantly Type I, sometimes with Type III.
Should I take vitamin C with marine collagen?
Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis in the body, so taking it alongside collagen may enhance benefits. Some marine collagen products already include vitamin C. If yours doesn’t, consuming vitamin C-rich foods or a separate supplement can be beneficial.
The Bottom Line
For most people: Vital Proteins Marine Collagen offers the best combination of quality sourcing, high collagen content, and trusted brand reputation. It’s our top overall pick for a reason.
For budget-conscious buyers: Sports Research Marine Collagen delivers excellent value with comprehensive certifications and solid collagen content at a more accessible price point.
For maximum absorption: AMANDEAN Marine Collagen with its double-hydrolyzed formula and sustainable North Atlantic sourcing is ideal for those prioritizing bioavailability.
For capsule preference: Codeage Biotin Marine Collagen provides the most comprehensive capsule option with added biotin, vitamins, and hyaluronic acid for a complete beauty supplement.
For bulk buyers: Micro Ingredients Marine Collagen offers the best cost-per-serving for committed collagen users who want to stock up.
