Collagen Peptides (Peptan)

Collagen Peptides (Peptan) are enzymatically hydrolyzed type I collagen, typically derived from bovine hide or fish scales, with a molecular weight of 2–5 kDa for high bioavailability. Per 10 g serving (standard dose): ~9–9.5 g protein (>90% protein content on dry basis), <0.5 g fat, <0.5 g carbohydrates, ~35–40 kcal. Rich in specific amino acids: Glycine (~2.2–2.5 g/10 g), Proline (~1.2–1.4 g/10 g), Hydroxyproline (~1.1–1.3 g/10 g, unique to collagen and a key bioactive marker), Alanine (~0.8–1.0 g/10 g), Glutamic acid (~1.0–1.1 g/10 g), and Arginine (~0.7–0.9 g/10 g). Low in essential amino acids: Tryptophan is absent (0 g), Methionine (~0.06 g/10 g), Histidine (~0.05 g/10 g), making it an incomplete protein by standard criteria. Contains bioactive dipeptides and tripeptides post-digestion, notably Prolyl-Hydroxyproline (Pro-Hyp) and Hydroxyprolyl-Glycine (Hyp-Gly), which act as signaling molecules stimulating fibroblast, chondrocyte, and osteoblast activity. Mineral content is minimal but may include trace calcium (~20–30 mg/10 g), phosphorus (~10–15 mg/10 g), and sodium (~50–100 mg/10 g) depending on source and processing. No significant vitamins, fiber, or fat-soluble compounds. Bioavailability is notably high (>90% intestinal absorption) due to the low molecular weight hydrolysis; Pro-Hyp dipeptides are detectable in human plasma within 1–2 hours post-ingestion, peaking at ~2 hours, confirming systemic delivery to target tissues including dermis, cartilage, and bone matrix. Fish-derived Peptan may have slightly higher bioavailability than bovine-derived due to lower hydroxyproline content and different peptide distribution. No cholesterol, no purines of significance, and generally free of common allergens (gluten-free, dairy-free), though fish-sourced variants are a fish allergen concern.