What is the difference between collagen, collagen hydrolysate and gelatine?
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human and animal body representing 30% of total body protein. Collagen gives structure to tendons, cartilage tissue, bones and connective tissue. Gelatine is produced from collagen. It has gelling properties and is used in the food industry (e.g. as emulsifier, gel-former, taste and colour enhancer), in the pharmaceutical industry (e.g. for capsules, as blood replacement, agent for vitamin coating) and in the photo industry (e.g. as basis of film and photographic paper). Collagen hydrolysate is also produced from collagen but by a different process. The amino acid compositions of collagen and collagen hydrolysate are very similar. This similarity gives collagen hydrolysate an important role in the build up of new cartilage. Research has shown that collagen hydrolysate stimulates collagen synthesis: this effect was proven by a laboratory study by Oesser et al. (Cell & Tissue Research 311:393-9; March 2003). Clinical studies with patients suff
