Many collagen supplements are derived from animals such as bison and yak, and most commonly, cows. For this reason, they may not be suitable for those following a halal diet and lifestyle. However, some brands produce halal-certified collagen supplements.
If you’re looking for halal collagen in the UK, the main things to check are the source, the halal certification, and whether the product is bovine, marine or a vegan collagen-support blend. We explore the available options below.
Collagen is a protein that helps to keep the skin plump and youthful and the joints supple and lubricated. From around the age of 25, our levels of this valuable protein begin to decline as our natural collagen manufacturing mechanisms slow down.
This gradual process means that we begin to notice the visible signs of ageing in our 30s, 40s, and beyond, including skin sagging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. We might also begin to develop joint stiffness, immobility, swelling, aches, and pains as we enter our later years.
Collagen supplements, that help to top up our collagen reserves, are a popular option to help minimise and potentially reverse some of the effects and signs of ageing, namely its production decline and its results.
There are five main types of collagen found in the human body – types I, II, III, IV, and V, each with differing roles. Types I and III are found most abundantly in the skin, while the joints tend to contain types I and II.
Collagen supplements are widely available as bovine-derived or marine-derived. Bovine collagen is made using the bones of animals such as cows and is rich in types I and III. Marine collagen is usually richest in type I collagen, depending on the source, and is made using parts of fish such as the skin, bones, fins and scales. Marine collagen is also often seen as a simpler option for halal shoppers, although it is still wise to check the full ingredient list and certification.
Many people choose to take bovine collagen supplements to support their skin, while people looking to support their joints may choose to take marine collagen.
Vegan collagen powders are also available, however, as collagen is animal-derived, they don’t contain collagen. Instead, they tend to contain the building blocks of collagen proteins, called amino acids, along with other nutrients essential for the manufacture of collagen, including vitamin C. Some also contain collagen-building blocks made from yeast and algae. These can be a useful option for people who want to avoid animal-derived collagen altogether, but they should be seen as collagen-support products rather than collagen itself.
Some collagen brands do not manufacture halal collagen, but we’ve carefully selected Planet Paleo collagen products that are certified halal.
The foundation of a halal diet is to avoid consuming anything that contains pork or pork by-products, alcohol, or substances considered impure or harmful. If a food contains ingredients derived from an animal (other than a pig), then they must have come from an animal, such as a cow, that has been slaughtered in a specific way.
Therefore, in the case of bovine collagen, the bones used must have come from a cow that has been slaughtered to halal principles. Some bovine collagen powders do not conform to halal principles and are therefore considered haram. To be considered halal, marine collagen should also ideally come from high-quality, sustainable sources, to ensure that it isn’t contaminated with impurities or harmful substances. Finding a supplement that fits in with such dietary requirements can be difficult. A simple rule is this: if it is bovine, look for clear halal certification and a transparent source; if it is marine, still check the full ingredient list carefully.
Some brands ensure that all their collagen supplements are certified halal, such as Planet Paleo, the most popular collagen brand we sell.
As well as being certified halal, Planet Paleo products are free from gluten, soya, sugar, and artificial fillers and binders. They’re also packaged in 100% plastic-free, compostable packaging. Simply add the recommended daily intake of your chosen supplement to water, fresh juice, or a warm drink each day. If you are specifically searching for halal collagen in the UK, these are the three main types to compare: halal-certified bovine collagen, marine collagen, and vegan collagen-support blends.
Their Pure Collagen powder is derived from grass-fed, free-range South American cows that haven’t been exposed to harmful chemicals or artificial hormones. It contains a highly digestible hydrolysed collagen that’s rich in types I and III and supports healthy, youthful skin. Bovine collagen is great for digestive health, as well as boosting joint strength, enhancing skin elasticity, and fortifying hair and nails.
If you're experiencing stiffness or discomfort in your joints, Planet Paleo's Marine Collagen powder might be just what you need. This supplement not only aids in soothing your joints but also enhances the health of your skin, hair, and nails. It's a great choice for overall wellness.
Made using wild fish, caught using sustainable fishing practices in designated waters off the French coast, it’s rich in easy-to-digest, hydrolysed collagen and is the simplest option for people who want a fish-based source.
Collagen isn’t naturally found in plant-based products, and nutrient boosters are instead manufactured as a vegan collagen supplement.
If you’re vegetarian or vegan, and you’d like to take a supplement manufactured by a company that observes halal manufacturing processes, the Vegan Collagen Nutrient Factors from Planet Paleo is an ideal choice.
With amino acids, vitamin C and other collagen boosters, it will help to support healthy skin and joints, with zero animal products. The natural chocolate content is a real bonus and can be had as a cold or warm cacao vegan shake.
If you follow a halal diet and lifestyle, and you’d like to take collagen supplements, take care to choose a product that’s been certified as halal, such as our range of Planet Paleo powders mentioned above.
We always recommend taking any supplement every day for at least 12 weeks to fully notice any benefits. However, studies suggest that noticeable anti-ageing results from collagen powders could be seen in as little as four weeks. Separate studies have found that it could take around six months of regular supplementation before any improvement in joint discomfort is felt.
More recent reviews continue to suggest that hydrolysed collagen may support skin hydration and elasticity, with many studies running for around 8 to 24 weeks. There is also newer review evidence pointing to a possible role in joint comfort, especially in osteoarthritis, although results do vary from study to study.
Taking between 2.5g and 15g of collagen each day is considered safe, with no known serious side effects. A large intake can initially lead to bloating, nausea, and stomach pains, so it’s best to build up gradually, especially if you have a sensitive stomach.
In daily life, the easiest approach is to keep it simple and take it the same way each day. Collagen powders can usually be stirred into water, juice, tea, coffee, smoothies, porridge or yoghurt. Consistency tends to matter more than taking a very high dose all at once.
Collagen powders, whether they’re derived from bovine, marine, or vegan sources can be beneficial for the appearance of your skin and the health of your bones, muscles, and joints, and they’re well worth considering. Choose a high-quality, halal-certified brand and you could be noticing results within a few weeks or months.
Is marine collagen halal?
Marine collagen is often the simpler option for halal shoppers because it is fish-derived, but it is still worth checking the full ingredient list and the certification.
Is bovine collagen halal?
Bovine collagen can be halal, but only if the source and processing meet halal standards. This is why certification matters.
How long does halal collagen take to work?
Most collagen studies look at periods of around 8 to 24 weeks, so it is best taken consistently rather than on and off.
How can I fit halal collagen into everyday life?
Most people do best by adding it to a routine they already have, such as a morning tea or coffee, a smoothie, porridge, yoghurt or soup. Keeping it simple usually makes it easier to stay consistent.
Hi Mohamed Mamdouh and Sehrish Ashfaq!
Thanks for reaching out. I can confirm that all Planet Paleo bovine collagen, marine collagen and bone broth products that we feature are certified Halal. For any questions, please feel free to reach our over email —→ contact@fortheageless.com
Best wishes, Kim
As a Muslim please tell me can I take bovine collagen ?? Is it halal or not ??
Bison and yak and cows are halal ,
The question is is collagen using pigs or no ?
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