Is Vegan Collagen a Real Thing? A Science-Backed Review

Often promoted as a must-have for healthy skin, hair, and joints, collagen has become something of a wellness buzzword in recent years. But what exactly is collagen? Is it vegan-friendly? And importantly, does it really work?

Let’s take a closer (and science-backed) look…

What is Collagen?

Collagen is one of the most abundant proteins in your body. Think of it a bit like scaffolding, providing structure, strength and elasticity to your skin, muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments (1).

As we age, collagen production naturally slows down (2), which has fuelled huge interest in collagen supplements. However, collagen isn’t unique to humans; it’s also found in animals. Most collagen supplements, therefore, come from animal sources such as bovine (cow), porcine (pig), or marine (fish) sources and are usually produced by breaking down animals’ connective tissues into smaller collagen peptides (this is to make it easier for us to absorb it) (3). Check out our full guide on everything you need to know about collagen to find out

Ok, so if you’ve been following so far, you might now be wondering: ‘so where does that leave those looking for a vegan alternative?’. Well, you’d be asking a very good question.

Is Vegan Collagen a thing?

The terms ‘vegan’ and ‘collagen’ can’t technically go together as collagen itself is derived from animals.

That said, there are two main ways that scientists are creating plant-based alternatives:

Bio-engineered (lab-grown) vegan collagen – In the science of today, scientists have developed ways to use genetically modified yeast or bacteria and formulate it to mimic the structure and function of animal collagen (3,4,5). It a really exciting innovation, but it is still very very new, costly, and not something you’ll commonly find in everyday health stores… yet.
Vegan ‘collagen-builders’ or ‘boosters’ – these don’t contain collagen itself but rather the nutrients your body naturally uses to make its own collagen, such as vitamin C and amino acids like glycine, lysine, and proline, alongside certain plant extracts (4,5,6). When you see ‘vegan collagen’ on a label, it’s usually this type: a collagen-supporting blend, rather than collagen itself.

Does Vegan Collagen Work?

Now the big question. Does vegan collagen work?

Well, evidence is limited, still in its early stages, and not yet as robust as we’d like. But emerging research into vegan collagen and collagen-builder supplements does show some interesting findings.

One recent placebo-controlled clinical trial found that taking a specific vegan collagen biomimetic for eight weeks led to modest but measurable improvements in skin density, elasticity, and wrinkle appearance compared with placebo (7).

Another short-term study on a vegan collagen-builder formula reported similar improvements in skin smoothness, hair growth, and joint pain, though this trial did not include a control group, which limits how confidently we can interpret the results (8).

In short: It’s important to keep perspective. For both vegan and animal based (9) collagen, the science is still catching up. Vegan collagen products may support your body’s natural production of collagen by providing key nutrients, but we don’t yet have large-scale evidence confirming their effectiveness.

Are there any alternatives to collagen supplements?

The good news is that for most healthy adults – vegan or otherwise – a varied, nutrient-dense, and plant-rich diet can provide everything needed to support collagen production. And combining a nutrient-dense diet with healthy lifestyle habits such as good sleep, hydration, and stress management is the current best-supported way to maintain healthy skin and overall wellbeing.

Here’s what to focus on through food:

Protein: Found in plant sources such as legumes, lentils, tofu, tempeh, black beans, quinoa, nuts and seeds (10).
Vitamin C: Essential for collagen synthesis, these are found in citrus fruits including kiwis, red and green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes, and Brussels sprouts (11).
Zinc: Found in nuts, seeds, legumes, and wholegrains (12).
Vitamin A: This is produced in our bodies from beta-carotenes found in carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, and tomatoes (13).
Antioxidant-rich foods: Colourful fruit and vegetables like dark leafy greens, berries, offer antioxidant benefits that may support skin (14), as well as other aspects of health.

Check out our full guide on the best collagen-rich foods for busy lifestyles.

So, what’s the takeaway?

Vegan collagen products exist, but they are usually collagen-supporting blends, not collagen itself.
Early research suggests modest benefits, primarily for skin health, but evidence is limited, short-term, and still evolving.
For now, and according to current science, balanced nutrition and healthy lifestyle habits remain the most reliable way to support your body’s collagen production.
Finally, remember to always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements. Certain medical conditions may require people to limit their protein intake and therefore may be advised not to use collagen supplements!

Dietitian’s Disclaimer:

The information in this article has been provided by Amber Woodhouse, Registered Dietitian, based on current scientific evidence and is intended solely for educational and informational purposes for the general adult public. The content reflects general principles and knowledge within nutritional science and should not be used as a substitute for individually tailored medical or dietetic advice. Any product links and promotions do not constitute specific endorsements from me as a healthcare professional. Readers should consult with their healthcare provider before making significant changes to their diet or lifestyle or beginning any supplementation regime.

Meal Shakesexpand_moreMeal Shakes

Protein Shakesexpand_moreProtein Shakes

Vegan Shakesexpand_moreVegan Shakes

Weight Loss Shakesexpand_moreWeight Loss Shakes

Muscle & Gainer Shakesexpand_moreMuscle & Gainer Shakes

Health & Wellnessexpand_moreHealth & Wellness

Focus & Energy Shakesexpand_moreFocus & Energy Shakes

Accessoriesexpand_moreAccessories

Breakfastexpand_moreBreakfast

Sweetexpand_moreSweet

Savouryexpand_moreSavoury

Nut Butters & Spreadsexpand_moreNut Butters & Spreads

Feel Betterexpand_moreFeel Better

Health & Wellnessexpand_moreHealth & Wellness

Weight Lossexpand_moreWeight Loss

Creatineexpand_moreCreatine

Vitamins & Mineralsexpand_moreVitamins & Minerals

Pre Workoutsexpand_morePre Workouts

Amino Acidsexpand_moreAmino Acids

Omega 3expand_moreOmega 3