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Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body and, for many reasons, it’s essential for good health and wellbeing. As well as being the primary structural protein in our conjunctive tissues, it also plays key roles in joint mobility, bone stability, skin smoothness and even the health of hair and fingernails.

Apparently unaffected by global economics and boom-and-bust trends, the worldwide markets for collagen peptides and gelatin continue to flourish. Driving this growth are a number of factors, including an increasing awareness about personal healthcare and nutrition, the rising population of ageing consumers and the steady pace of industrialization in developing geographies.

Beyond the key criteria of being tasty, healthy and natural, several key aspects must be taken into consideration when formulating the ideal functional beverage, particularly when targeting different age groups. Ingredient solubility is paramount. Texture and mouthfeel are also critical. And, finally, as the main purpose of a functional beverage is to provide the consumer with a health benefit, it is particularly important for product developers to use proven, simple-to-use ingredients with documented effects. Consumer expectations are higher than ever, and it’s not easy to incorporate extra health into a drink in a delicious and sensory pleasing way. However, GELITA’s Bioactive Collagen Peptides (BCP^®s) offer a convenient solution.

Quickly and recently, collagen peptides have become one of the most sought-after products in the health and wellness aisle. Growth in the collagen sector is attributed to the increasing awareness of the vital role that collagen-rich tissues play in the adaptation to training and protection against injuries. Adding to this, there is the unique appeal of collagen’s ability to reduce the age-related concept of whole-body decline.

Thomas Röhler, 27 years old, is a professional javelin thrower who competes at the very highest level. As a former Olympic (2016) and European champion (2018), his personal best measures a world-class distance of 93.90 m. Now, with his sights set on competing at the World Championships (2019) and Olympia (2020), he’s looking to optimize his training plan and focus on achieving even more.

Findings from cell experiments and in vivo studies in rodents have enhanced our knowledge about how collagen peptides may contribute to a normal bone formation and an increase in bone mineral density if there is a lack in bone mass. First, it has been shown that collagen peptides are rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, collagen peptides are largely absorbed in peptide form and may act as signaling molecules, thereby positively influencing anabolic processes. For connective tissue, in particular, this stimulating effect has previously been demonstrated. Therefore it may be assumed that the stimulation of collagen formation in bone could also be mediated via signaling proteins derived from collagen peptides.