Collagen Types I, II, III – EU Sourcing and Compliance for Beauty Supplements
Collagen is one of the most in-demand active ingredients in beauty nutraceuticals, known for supporting skin elasticity, hair strength, and joint health. In the EU, sourcing and formulating collagen for supplements involves strict quality, safety, and compliance requirements. Understanding the differences between types I, II, and III collagen—and the rules governing their use—can help brands create high-quality, legally compliant beauty products that succeed in the competitive European market.
Understanding Collagen Types
Type I Collagen
- Primary source: Bovine, porcine, or marine (fish) skin and scales
- Main benefits: Improves skin elasticity, reduces wrinkles, strengthens hair and nails
- Typical format: Hydrolyzed collagen peptides for better absorption
Type II Collagen
- Primary source: Chicken sternum cartilage or other poultry cartilage
- Main benefits: Supports joint health, reduces inflammation, enhances mobility
- Typical format: Native type II collagen or hydrolyzed form
Type III Collagen
- Primary source: Found alongside type I in skin and connective tissue
- Main benefits: Supports skin firmness, vascular health, and wound healing
- Typical format: Often combined with type I collagen in multi-collagen formulas
EU Sourcing Requirements
Bovine collagen – Rich in Type I & III, great for skin, hair, nails
Marine collagen – High absorption, popular for beauty
Porcine collagen – Functional and affordable
Vegan-friendly blends – Collagen boosters (not actual collagen) with vitamin C, zinc.
Marine collagen – High absorption, popular for beauty
Porcine collagen – Functional and affordable
Vegan-friendly blends – Collagen boosters (not actual collagen) with vitamin C, zinc.
To supply collagen for the EU market, raw materials must meet strict sourcing criteria:
- Traceability: Documented proof of origin, including supplier declarations and veterinary health certificates
- Safety compliance: Free from contaminants such as heavy metals, microbial pathogens, and prohibited animal materials (per EU Regulation 999/2001)
- Ethical sourcing: Many brands opt for marine collagen sourced from sustainable fisheries or bovine collagen from grass-fed, hormone-free cattle
Regulatory Compliance for SupplementsFood Supplement Directive (2002/46/EC):
Defines collagen as a food supplement ingredient and sets labeling requirements.
Defines collagen as a food supplement ingredient and sets labeling requirements.
- Regulation (EC) 1924/2006 (Nutrition & Health Claims):
- Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 (Food Information to Consumers):
- Novel Food Regulation (EU) 2015/2283:
Formats We Can Produce
At BF-EssE, we can develop your custom product in:
All are available flavored or unflavored, natural or colored.
All are available flavored or unflavored, natural or colored.
Flavors You Can Choose:
We stock over 12 high-quality flavors — perfect for beauty, wellness, or fitness branding.
Best sellers:
We stock over 12 high-quality flavors — perfect for beauty, wellness, or fitness branding.
Best sellers:
- Hibiscus
- Peach
- Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Pineapple
- Green Apple
- Blackсurrant
- Green Tea
- ...and more. Custom blends on request.
Quality and Testing
EU manufacturers and importers must ensure:
- HACCP-based quality management systems in production
- Analytical testing for amino acid profiles, microbiological safety, and heavy metals
- Stability testing to guarantee efficacy throughout shelf life
Formulation Best Practices for Beauty Supplements
Combine with synergistic nutrients:
Vitamin C to support collagen synthesis, hyaluronic acid for hydration, zinc for skin health
Select optimal dosage:
Commonly 2.5–10g daily for hydrolyzed collagen peptides
Individual Choose format for target market:
Capsules, sachets, or ready-to-drink shots for convenience and consumer preference
Not Sure About Legal Aspects?
Collagen regulations in the EU can be tricky. Some articles say one thing, others say another. We’ve read this, that, and everything else — so you don’t have to.
Our experts can guide you on:
Our experts can guide you on:
- Legal ingredient forms
- Label structure
- Health claim use
- Supplement Facts formatting
Conclusion
Collagen types I, II, and III each bring unique benefits to beauty supplements, but success in the EU market depends on more than just ingredient choice. By following strict sourcing protocols, complying with EU regulations, and maintaining rigorous quality standards, brands can deliver products that are safe, effective, and market-ready.
- We offer private-label with low MOQs and fast production.
- Want a full list of our available collagen ingredients, formats, and flavors?
- Let’s create your next hero product.
FAQ – Collagen Types I, II, III in EU Beauty Supplements
Type I collagen primarily supports skin, hair, and nails; type II targets joint and cartilage health; and type III complements type I in skin firmness and vascular support."
Most traditional sources like bovine, porcine, and marine collagen are not novel, but new sources or extraction methods may require novel food authorization.
Key regulations include the Food Supplement Directive (2002/46/EC), Nutrition & Health Claims Regulation (1924/2006), and Food Information Regulation (1169/2011).
Currently, there are no EU-authorized specific health claims for collagen. Marketing must avoid misleading statements and comply with EFSA guidelines.
Marine collagen (fish) for premium beauty supplements and bovine collagen for cost-effective, high-protein formulations are the most common.
By implementing HACCP systems, performing HPLC and microbiological testing, and ensuring traceable, certified raw material sourcing.