Ingredient Information

Function

Hydrolyzed gelatin is also known as gelatin, hydrolyzed collagen, collagen hydrolysate, and collagen peptide. It is produced from collagen found in the bones, skin, and connective tissue of cattle, pigs, horses, and fish. Hydrolyzed gelatin is taste- and odor-free. It is used in beverages, food, dietary supplements, and powder blends. It helps acts as a stabilizer in food and helps to form new collagen in the body.

Other Use and Industries

Hydrolyzed gelatin is used in cosmetics and skin care products as a serum for smooth skin.

Health Effects

Hydrolyzed gelatin contains 20 amino acids, including glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. Hydrolyzed gelatin is reported to be bioavailable to the human body and is absorbed in small peptides in the blood. Hydrolyzed gelatin is used to treat skin, joint, and bone health concerns. It is also a source of protein.

Hydrolyzed gelatin comes from animal sources, so those who consume it risk being infected with bovine diseases.

Medical Concern: none

Cultural Concern:
Those adhering to a Halal, Kosher, Vegan, and Vegetarian diet should not consume hydrolyzed gelatin because it comes from animal sources.

Hydrolyzed gelatin is an animal by-product. It contains 10% glutamine, but it is not clearly known if this is the same as MSG.

Origins

The process of hydrolysis involves the breaking down of molecular bonds between collagen strands using heat and acid or alkali solutions. Bone, connective tissue, and skin from cattle, pigs, fish, and horses are crushed, ground, defatted, and soaked in acid to reduce calcium. The solution is then soaked again to break all collagen bonds. It is then dehydrated.

Hydrolyzed gelatin has been used in cooking for more than 100 years. One of the first and leading manufacturers of hydrolyzed gelatin is the Knox Corporation.