A critical but often overlooked aspect of supplement quality is the source of collagen, particularly when it comes from industrially raised animals like conventional poultry.
There is compelling scientific concern regarding contamination from glyphosate, a widely used herbicide, and its potential impact on collagen integrity and human health.
Glyphosate in Feed and Protein Substitution
Glyphosate (N-phosphonomethylglycine) is the most widely used herbicide in the world, especially in genetically modified (GMO) crops like corn and soy, which are commonly used in animal feed. Studies have shown that animals fed such crops can accumulate residues of glyphosate in various tissues.
Of particular concern is the research by Samsel and Seneff (2013, 2015), which proposes that glyphosate can mimic the amino acid glycine and be erroneously incorporated into proteins, including collagen. This is significant because glycine is one of the three primary amino acids in collagen (along with proline and hydroxyproline). Glyphosate substitution may lead to misfolded or dysfunctional proteins, which has implications for both structural integrity and safety of ingested collagen.
How This Affects Collagen
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Collagen is glycine-rich (~33% glycine by amino acid content).
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If glyphosate replaces glycine, it can:
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Alter the structure and function of collagen.
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Result in inflammation or immune response in sensitive individuals.
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Potentially introduce trace levels of glyphosate residues into your body.
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Furthermore, glyphosate has been shown to act as an antibiotic that targets beneficial gut microbes, contributing to gut dysbiosis and systemic inflammation—both of which are counterproductive for the consumers of collagen supplements aiming for better skin, joints, or gut health.
Industrial Chicken: A High-Risk Collagen Source
Industrial poultry is often fed a GMO-heavy diet containing glyphosate-contaminated feed. Chickens, being monogastric animals (unlike ruminants such as cows), do not neutralize these toxins as effectively. As a result, collagen derived from industrial chicken—commonly found in "type II collagen" supplements—may be particularly prone to contamination.
Safer Alternatives
To avoid these risks:
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Choose collagen sourced from grass-fed, wild and pasture-raised sources.
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Use wild-caught marine collagen from species tested for heavy metals and contaminants.
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Look for testing certifications to ensure
As you can see, it's very important to purchase Collagen from quality sources, as not all collagens are created equal.
Collagen5+ contains 5 types of collagen. Typically, collagen supplements contain only one or two types of collagen. In order to get all of the benefits collagen has to offer, you’ll want a product that has all 5 of the most important collagen types.
Our exclusive formula contains ALL 5 types of collagen derived exclusively from grass fed, wild, and free range natural sources to ensure it contains the finest quality collagen. This also helps ensure you're not exposing yourself to glyphosate.
The potency of multi-sourced collagen lies in it's diverse origins, each offering a unique set of benefits:
1. Grass-Fed Cattle:
Hailing from South American grasslands, this collagen is sourced from cattle that graze freely. These animals thrive on nutrient-rich grass, resulting in a collagen brimming with essential amino acids that bolster skin health and support joint function.*
2. Wild-Caught Cod Fish:
Sourced from the North Atlantic deep ocean waters, this collagen encapsulates the essence of the sea. It's rich in marine collagen, promoting skin elasticity and assisting in maintaining healthy hair and nails.*
3. Free-Range Chickens:
Derived from free-range chickens, this collagen embodies vitality. Packed with collagen types I and III, it nurtures healthy skin and fortifies joints and bones.*
Protea Nutrition is also GMP certified and tested twice for being under the FDA regulations and standards for all heavy metals including lead.
*The contents of this blog should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health problem-nor is it intended to replace the advice of a physician. Always consult your physician or qualified health professional on any matters regarding your health. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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