Written by the Plenthera team (trained in orthomolecular nutrition). Scientifically reviewed in May 2026. Last updated: 28 May 2026.

Bovine collagen is obtained from the hide and bone of cattle and provides a combination of type 1 and type 3 collagen — the most common types in human skin, bone, tendon and connective tissue. A good all-round choice for those seeking support for both skin and connective tissue. Preferably choose grass-fed sources for a cleaner profile.

On this pageType 1 and type 3 — what is the difference? · Our bovine collagen products · Frequently asked questions · Combine with · Sources

Type 1 and type 3 — what is the difference?

Type 1 is the most common type of collagen in the human body — mainly in skin, bones, tendons, ligaments and organs. Type 3 often occurs alongside type 1, mainly in skin and vascular tissue. Bovine collagen provides both; marine collagen is predominantly type 1.

Our bovine collagen products

• Plent Bone Broth Collageen — Plenthera's own bovine collagen from bone broth — a wholefood approach
• Big Food Collageen — Dutch grass-fed bovine collagen powder
• Collagen — all collagen types at a glance
• Plent Beauty — wider Plent beauty range
• Bone Broth — all bone broth products — rich in collagen

Frequently asked questions

Which collagen is better for the skin: fish or bovine?

Both work — marine has smaller peptides, bovine also provides type 3. Personal preference, taste and origin (fish vs mammal) often determine the choice.

How much bovine collagen per day?

Studies use 5-15 g per day for effects on skin and joints. A daily 'beauty dose' often starts at 5-10 g.

Is grass-fed bovine collagen better?

Grass-fed animals provide a cleaner fatty acid and mineral profile and less accumulation of pesticides. For collagen peptides specifically the difference is modest, but for the wider quality of the source grass-fed is a plus.

What is the difference with bone broth?

Bone broth is collagen plus minerals, gelatine, glycine and other nutrients — wholefood. Isolated bovine collagen is standardised in dosage and taste. Bone broth is broader, isolate more precise.

Does bovine collagen dissolve well?

Hydrolysed bovine collagen usually dissolves well in hot and cold liquids without clumping. With non-hydrolysed gelatine: only in hot liquid.

Combine with other categories

Bovine collagen combines well with:

• Collagen — for other types
• Vitamin C — co-factor for collagen formation
• Glucosamine — for joint support
• MSM — for connective tissue support
• Ancestral Food — for wholefood context

Sources & references

• Schunck et al. (2017) — Specific Collagen Peptides for Joints (J Orthop Res)
• Zague et al. (2011) — Collagen hydrolysate skin effect (J Med Food)
• Voedingscentrum (Netherlands Nutrition Centre) — collagen supplementation

Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or an orthomolecular therapist.