Bovine Collagen: Potential Benefits, Known Risks, and More

Note: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve supplements for safety or effectiveness. Talk to a healthcare professional about whether a supplement is the right fit for your individual health, and about any potential drug interactions or safety concerns.

“The overall quality of evidence for bovine collagen benefits is growing, with promising results from numerous studies, including some well-designed human clinical trials,” says Mackenzie Burgess, RDN, a registered dietitian and nutrition partner with Butcher's Bone Broth based in Denver. “However, there are still research gaps, particularly regarding long-term effects, optimal dosages, and the need for more independent studies across diverse groups to confirm consistent benefits.”

Here’s what research says about some of the potential health perks.

May Improve Skin Health

May Lessen Joint Pain

May Relieve Digestive Problems

Still, experts emphasize that this area of research is in its early stages. “More rigorous research across diverse groups is needed to confirm these findings,” says Burgess.

There’s limited evidence that collagen supplements — including bovine collagen — directly cause weight loss.

“Bovine collagen is not a direct weight loss supplement or magic bullet for shedding pounds,” says Burgess. “However, as a protein source, it can contribute to a feeling of fullness and satiety, which may indirectly help manage appetite and reduce overall calorie intake, potentially supporting weight management efforts."

Still, experts emphasize that collagen alone won’t lead to weight loss — and these effects likely stem from its protein content rather than any unique fat-burning mechanism. Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and overall caloric balance remain the key drivers of sustainable weight management.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate bovine collagen supplements for safety or effectiveness, so it's important to know the possible downsides.

Risks

In addition, Robin Foroutan, RDN, an integrative and functional nutrition specialist in New York City, advises anyone with a history of kidney stones to speak to their doctor about whether collagen supplements are right for them.

There’s no authoritative statement on whether or not bovine collagen is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so it's best to talk to your doctor before taking any new supplement. Some may contain additional ingredients that may not be safe for you and your baby.

Side Effects

“Some might initially experience mild digestive discomfort like bloating or an upset stomach as their body adjusts,” says Burgess. “On the other hand, many individuals report that consistent collagen use actually reduces digestive issues by supporting gut health over time.”

When dietary intake isn’t enough or if you prefer a more convenient option, bovine collagen is also available in supplement form. The two main types are hydrolyzed collagen (also called collagen peptides) and gelatin, says Burgess.

“Hydrolyzed collagen is broken down into smaller, more easily absorbed peptides, while gelatin is a less processed form that creates a gel-like texture when mixed with liquids,” she explains. Both are typically sold as powders, but you can also find them in capsules, gummies, or ready-to-drink beverages.

With so many bovine collagen supplements on the market, it can be difficult to choose one. To pick a quality supplement, check the label for approval by USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com. This means the product has undergone third-party testing for quality and purity.

Here are other tips for finding and storing a bovine collagen supplement.

Selection

Storage

And while a 2.5 to 10 g dose is safe and effective for most people, Burgess also notes that more research is needed to know the best dosages for specific goals, such as potential osteoarthritis treatment or digestive health concerns.

• Bovine collagen is a supplement made from the bones and connective tissue of cows, and it is available in powder, capsule, gummy, and drink form. You can also get bovine collagen naturally through bone broth and other beef food sources.
• Scientific evidence suggests that bovine collagen supplementation may support skin, joint, and digestive health, but more robust, long-term research is needed to determine proper doses and possible long-term effects.
• Use caution if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of kidney stones. These groups should speak with their healthcare provider before starting a collagen supplement, as safety data is limited.
• Always check with your doctor before adding any new supplement to your routine to ensure it’s appropriate for your health status, medications, and nutritional needs.