What’s the Difference Between Type I and Type III Collagen in Bovine Sources?

In the global nutraceutical and biomedical markets, collagen has become a highly sought-after ingredient. Its applications range from functional foods and dietary supplements to cosmetic formulations and even advanced medical devices. Among the various types of collagen available, Type I and Type III collagens derived from bovine sources stand out for their widespread use and functional benefits. However, for B2B buyers, R&D managers, and sourcing professionals, understanding the distinction between these two types is crucial for selecting the right raw material to match product development goals and regulatory compliance.

Collagen Structure and Types

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body, making up about 30% of the body’s total protein content. It serves as the primary structural protein in connective tissues such as skin, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and bones.

There are at least 28 different types of collagen, but Type I, II, and III are the most common and commercially relevant.

• Type I collagen: Represents over 90% of the body’s collagen and is mainly found in skin, bones, tendons, and connective tissues. It provides high tensile strength and plays a critical role in skin firmness, bone strength, and wound healing.

• Type III collagen: Typically found alongside Type I, particularly in skin, blood vessels, and internal organs. It is more flexible than Type I and is crucial for tissue elasticity and vascular integrity.

Source: Bovine Collagen and Its Extraction

Bovine collagen is primarily derived from the hides, bones, and connective tissues of cows, making it a cost-effective and abundant source. SEMNL Group, a leading supplier of hydrolyzed bovine collagen, uses advanced enzymatic hydrolysis processes to break down native collagen into low molecular weight peptides for improved bioavailability and solubility.

The resulting product is a white to off-white powder, neutral in taste and odor, and highly versatile in application across the nutraceutical, cosmetic, and biomedical industries.

Key Differences Between Type I and Type III Collagen in Bovine Sources

1. Molecular Structure and Amino Acid Composition

• Type I collagen is composed of two α1 chains and one α2 chain forming a triple helix. It is richer in hydroxyproline and glycine, amino acids known for their role in stabilizing collagen’s helical structure.

• Type III collagen, on the other hand, consists of three identical α1 chains and has a more flexible configuration, making it suitable for tissues requiring elasticity.

2. Functional Benefits

• Type I collagen supports:

• Skin firmness and elasticity

• Bone density

• Tendon and ligament strength

• Wound healing

• Type III collagen supports:

• Skin suppleness and moisture retention

• Vascular and organ integrity

• Tissue elasticity

• Faster cellular regeneration

For this reason, many premium anti-aging and sports nutrition formulations prefer blends of Type I + Type III, often in a 70:30 ratio, to balance strength and elasticity.

3. Application Suitability

Both types are commonly processed into hydrolyzed collagen peptides, which are highly digestible and bioavailable. SEMNL’s Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen offers an average molecular weight of 1000–3000 Daltons, ensuring fast absorption and high functional performance.

Why Choose SEMNL Hydrolyzed Bovine Collagen?

Precision Formulation and Custom Blends

SEMNL provides customizable collagen solutions to match industry demands. Whether you require a high-purity Type I collagen for orthopedic use or a Type I+III blend for a skin care formulation, SEMNL offers tailored peptide compositions, backed by full technical documentation and COA (Certificate of Analysis).

GMP-Compliant Manufacturing

SEMNL’s production facilities operate under GMP, ISO9001, and HACCP standards, ensuring safety, traceability, and consistent quality. Their enzymatic hydrolysis process ensures the collagen remains non-denatured, preserving its functional peptides.

Wide Compatibility

The hydrolyzed collagen powder is:

• Soluble in cold or warm water

• Odorless and neutral-tasting

• Stable under various pH and temperature conditions

• Compatible with tablets, capsules, beverages, gummies, and skincare formulations

Regulatory and Safety Considerations

For B2B customers operating in EU, US, or Asia-Pacific markets, regulatory compliance is critical. SEMNL ensures:

• BSE/TSE-free sourcing

• Non-GMO raw materials

• Full traceability from bovine farm to finished product

• Compliance with EU EFSA and US FDA guidelines for dietary ingredients

Which Collagen Type Should You Choose?

For businesses formulating functional foods, beauty-from-within supplements, or medical-grade nutrition, choosing between Type I and Type III collagen depends on the end-use objective:

• Choose Type I collagen for bone health, structural support, and skin firmness.

• Choose Type III collagen (or a blend) for vascular health, skin elasticity, and tissue regeneration.

• Consider hydrolyzed forms from trusted suppliers like SEMNL Group for superior bioavailability and formulation flexibility.

If you’re looking for a reliable partner in bovine collagen sourcing, SEMNL offers scalable supply solutions, technical support, and customizable formulations to help you bring high-performance collagen products to market with confidence.