The 12 Best Collagen Powders, Tested and RD-Approved

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is our top choice for a flavorless, versatile collagen supplement. “It’s one of the best collagen supplements on the market,” says Nicole Ibarra, RD. “It’s tested by a third party to ensure it meets strict quality standards. … It’s also certified by the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF), making it a safe choice for athletes,” she adds. NSF certification ensures that the product has been thoroughly tested to confirm its purity and compliance with safety standards.

It’s important to note that collagen is derived from animal sources (cows in this product), so it isn’t suitable for vegans or vegetarians. However, for those looking for a high-quality, easy-to-add option, Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides is a top choice.

This product is third-party tested and NSF Certified for Sport, guaranteeing it’s free of harmful ingredients and meets the strict safety standards required for athletic use. It mixes well into beverages (although we noted it takes slightly longer to dissolve in hot liquids). The unflavored option is a good choice for those who prefer not to alter the taste of their drinks, but the berry flavor also provides an alternative for those seeking a touch of sweetness.

It’s important to note that Klean Collagen+C contains bovine-derived collagen, which makes it unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians. We also noticed it took longer to dissolve in hot liquids than some of the other options. Otherwise, if you’re an athlete and want to boost collagen synthesis with a high-quality, scientifically supported supplement, Klean Collagen+ C is a reliable option.

While the product has a slightly briny taste and smell, mixing it into smoothies or juices helps. It dissolves better in cold than hot liquids, but using an electric whisk helps. Amandean Marine Collagen’s sourcing quality and eco-conscious efforts make it a favorite for those seeking a non-bovine alternative.

We found the taste neutral and mixed best in hot liquids, but you could also add it to smoothies. We wouldn’t recommend using it in cold liquids without an electric whisk. Overall, Garden of Life offers a quality option if you’re looking for a comprehensive product to support gut health and immunity.

This product is NSF-certified, available in multiple flavors, and certified gluten-free. We like its neutral flavor and the fact that it easily mixes into hot beverages like coffee without altering the taste or texture. It also performs well in smoothies, adding beneficial protein without overpowering other ingredients.

It’s worth noting that this product doesn’t mix as well in cold liquids, leaving a thin white film on the top and a mild, milky flavor. Aside from this, the combination of quality, affordability, and effectiveness makes Sports Research Collagen Peptides a solid choice.

FullWell’s Unflavored Collagen Peptides Powder is our top choice for grass-fed collagen because of its commitment to high-quality sourcing and formulation. This powder is derived from 100 percent grass-fed, pasture-raised bovine hides targeted for health-conscious and environmentally mindful consumers.

FullWell, a dietitian-founded brand, was created to bring evidence-based, effective, and high-quality supplements to a broader audience. Their collagen powder delivers 15 grams of type 1 and 3 collagen per serving and dissolves completely in both hot and cold liquids without any gritty residue or clumping. FullWell’s product is third-party tested for ingredient accuracy, heavy metals, and the top 8 allergens (milk, egg, shellfish, fish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy).

The only potential drawback of FullWell’s Collagen Peptides Powder is the packaging, which we found could cause spills when first opening. However, given its quality sourcing and sustainable practices, this small downside is a minor trade-off for a grass-fed collagen supplement you can trust.

While 1st Phorm Collagen is quite sweet, which may not suit all tastes, it blends well in hot and cold liquids. It does contain sucralose, an artificial sweetener that some people may prefer to avoid. However, if you’re looking for a flavored collagen with a bit more sweetness, 1st Phorm has you covered.

Keep in mind that this product contains 5 mg of melatonin, which may cause grogginess for some people. If you plan on taking NativePath Collagen PM long-term, it’s essential to discuss it with your doctor first to ensure it’s the right fit for you.

NativePath Collagen PM’s chocolate flavor tastes like lightly sweetened hot cocoa, thanks to monk fruit extract. For best results in cold or room-temperature liquids, use a blender or electric whisk. With flavors like chocolate, honey chamomile, and lemon, it’s a sweet and soothing nightcap, though the lack of an unflavored option may be a drawback for some.

Many of the collagen options on our list would work during pregnancy, but we selected Needed Prenatal Collagen Plus for its exceptional quality standards and dedicated focus on supporting pregnancy and postpartum needs. “Needed Prenatal Collagen is third-party tested, using only grass-fed bovine collagen with no additives, highlighting their commitment to simple and high-quality ingredients,” shares Kaytee Hadley, RDN, functional medicine dietitian and founder of Holistic Health and Wellness in Richmond, Virginia.

Hadley cautions that supplementing with any product during pregnancy should warrant a conversation with your doctor, as there is limited research specifically on collagen supplementation during pregnancy. Once you get the okay from your doctor, Needed Prenatal Collagen Protein is a standout option for pregnant individuals seeking safe and effective collagen supplementation.

While Thorne Collagen Plus is undeniably high in quality, its complex formula reflects a higher price point compared with more basic collagen powders. Still, the unique and potent ingredients may justify this premium cost.

NOW Multi Collagen Protein is an evidence-informed option worth trying if you have occasional stiffness and discomfort. This gluten-free supplement is easy to mix into drinks or smoothies, however, it’s worth noting that some testers noted they could taste the collagen.

Perelel Cellular Hydration Powder offers a double-duty formula that provides electrolytes like magnesium and potassium for repletion with ingredients for skin health. While advertised as a supplement for postpartum hydration support, this sugar-free powder can benefit anyone.