Collagen

Collagen is a structural protein found in connective tissues. For food and nutrition, it is typically provided as collagen peptides for cold water solubility and neutral taste, or as gelatin for gelling and film forming. Collagen peptides are partially hydrolyzed, so they dissolve quickly, mix cleanly, and stay stable in a wide range of pH and processing conditions. Gelatin offers elastic gels, gloss, and melt in mouth textures that work well in confections and select beverage systems. 

Across formats, collagen supports easy protein fortification with a light sensory footprint, making it a favorite in powders, ready to drink beverages, and functional shots. 

Collagen shows up in more places than you might expect. Here’s how it fits into different categories: 

Sports Nutrition – Used in protein powders, blends, bars, and functional shots. Collagen peptides disperse easily, deliver a neutral taste, and support smooth textures without chalkiness. They are often paired with whey or plant proteins to fine tune mixability and mouthfeel. 

Beverages – Added to ready to drink shakes, coffees, teas, waters, and flavored beverages. Instant collagen peptides provide clear or slightly opalescent solutions with low viscosity and good stability. Formulators choose grades that stay suspended and resist clumping in cold fill. 

• Protein type and function  

• • Collagen peptides for cold water solubility and minimal viscosity 

• • Gelatin for gelling, foaming, and film forming in select applications 

• Protein level
  Typically about 90 to 95 percent protein per 100 g for collagen peptides 

• Source
  Bovine and porcine are common, with marine or poultry available for specific label or sensory goals 

• Molecular weight
  Lower average molecular weight supports faster dispersion and lighter mouthfeel in beverages 

• Clarity and color
  Select grades for clear beverages or for opaque systems where color is less critical 

• Flavor profile
  Neutral to light dairy like notes in many grades; choose low odor options for delicate flavors 

• Process fit
  Consider pH, heat step, hold time, and shear. Collagen peptides tolerate typical hot fill and UHT conditions in many formulas 

• Allergens
  Collagen is not a major allergen; marine sourced collagen may require fish labeling 

• Packaging
  Bags, totes, or custom formats that match your batching and storage 

• Quantity
  We will review minimum order quantities and scale plans for your launch and forecast 

• Certifications
  Blendtek is SQF certified and Kosher certified. Ask about specific source and certification combinations 

Collagen offers straightforward protein fortification with excellent mixability and a light sensory footprint. Blendtek helps you choose the right grade, build targeted premixes, and refine processing so your beverages and sports products pour smoothly, taste clean, and meet your label goals.