How to Make Collagen Peptides: A Guide to Sourcing and Process

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. What Exactly Are Collagen Peptides?
3. How the Pros Make Collagen Peptides
4. How to Make Collagen at Home: The DIY Method
5. Collagen vs. Gelatin: Knowing the Difference
6. Why Sourcing Matters for Your Collagen
7. How to Use Your Collagen Peptides
8. Optimizing Collagen Synthesis
9. Why Quality and Mission Matter
10. FAQ

Introduction

You’ve likely seen collagen everywhere lately, from coffee shop menus to the supplement aisle. It is the most abundant protein in our bodies, acting as the structural "glue" for our skin, joints, and connective tissues. However, there is a big difference between the collagen found in a steak and the collagen peptides you stir into your morning brew. Understanding how to make collagen peptides—both how they are produced at scale and how you can create collagen-rich sources at home—is essential for anyone serious about their wellness.

At BUBS Naturals, we believe in radical transparency. We want you to know exactly how your supplements are created, from the initial sourcing to the final powder in the tub. This guide will walk you through the scientific process of hydrolysis, the difference between various collagen types, and how you can maximize your intake through DIY methods like bone broth. If you want the finished product up front, start with our Collagen Peptides. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how this powerhouse protein moves from the source to your scoop.

Quick Answer: Collagen peptides are made through a process called hydrolysis, where large collagen molecules from animal hides or bones are broken down into smaller, easy-to-absorb chains using water and enzymes. While you can't easily replicate this chemical breakdown at home, you can make the liquid precursor, bone broth, by simmering collagen-rich animal parts for 12 to 24 hours.

What Exactly Are Collagen Peptides?

Before diving into the "how," we need to understand the "what." Collagen in its raw form is a massive, complex protein. It consists of three long chains of amino acids—primarily glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline—wound together in a tight triple helix. This structure is incredibly strong, which is why it’s the primary component of our tendons and ligaments.

However, because the raw collagen molecule is so large, your body has a hard time absorbing it efficiently. This is where "peptides" come in. Collagen peptides, also known as hydrolyzed collagen, are the result of breaking those long chains into much shorter pieces. For a deeper dive into the broader topic, see our All About Collagen Peptides.

These shorter chains are highly bioavailable. In plain English, bioavailability means your body can absorb them quickly through the digestive tract and send them into the bloodstream. Once there, they act as the building blocks your body needs to support skin elasticity, joint health, and muscle recovery.

How the Pros Make Collagen Peptides

The industrial manufacturing of collagen peptides is a precise scientific process. It transforms raw animal materials into a neutral, dissolvable powder. Most high-quality collagen comes from bovine (cow) hides or fish scales, though it can also be sourced from chicken or porcine (pig) materials. If you want to see how that finished powder is presented to consumers, the Collagen Protein Benefits page is a helpful companion read.

Step 1: Sourcing and Preparation

The process starts with high-quality raw materials. For bovine collagen, this usually means the hides of cattle. For marine collagen, it involves fish scales or skin. These materials are cleaned and prepared. If bones are used instead of hides, they undergo a "degreasing" and milling process to prepare them for extraction.

Step 2: Extraction and Acid/Alkaline Treatment

The raw material is soaked in either an acid or alkaline solution. This step isn't about breaking down the protein yet; it's about "opening up" the structure and removing non-collagen components like fats, minerals, and other proteins. For bones, this results in a material called ossein, which is then ready for the next phase.

Step 3: Hydrolysis (The Crucial Step)

Hydrolysis is the defining moment in making collagen peptides. The word comes from the Greek "hydro" (water) and "lysis" (to unbind). In this stage, the collagen is placed in large vats with water and specific enzymes.

The mixture is heated to a precise temperature. The combination of heat, water, and enzymes acts like chemical scissors, snipping the long collagen fibers into the tiny peptides we want. This process ensures the final product will dissolve in both hot and cold liquids and won't turn into "jello" when it cools.

Step 4: Filtration and Purification

Once the hydrolysis is complete, the liquid contains the peptides. This liquid is filtered multiple times to remove any remaining impurities. It goes through evaporation to concentrate the protein and then a sterilization process to ensure it is safe for consumption.

Step 5: Spray Drying

The final liquid is turned into the powder you see in our tubs through spray drying. The liquid is sprayed through a nozzle into a chamber of hot air, which instantly evaporates the moisture, leaving behind fine, dry collagen peptide particles.

Key Takeaway: The transition from raw collagen to peptides requires hydrolysis to reduce the molecular weight of the protein. This chemical "shortening" is what makes the powder easy to digest and highly effective for recovery compared to eating whole connective tissue.

How to Make Collagen at Home: The DIY Method

While you cannot easily perform industrial enzymatic hydrolysis in your kitchen to create a fine, dissolvable powder, you can create a highly nutritious, collagen-rich liquid: bone broth. Bone broth is the closest "whole food" version of the collagen extraction process.

The Science of Homemade Collagen

When you simmer bones and connective tissue for a long time, you are performing a slow version of hydrolysis. The heat and water gradually break down the collagen into gelatin. You’ll know you’ve been successful if your broth "gels" or becomes jiggly like jelly when it’s cold. This gelatin is essentially collagen that has been partially broken down.

Step-by-Step DIY Bone Broth Recipe

To get the most collagen out of your ingredients, follow these steps:

1. Select Your Bones: Use "knuckle" bones, marrow bones, or chicken feet. These are the parts highest in cartilage and connective tissue.
2. Roast for Flavor (Optional): Roast the bones at 400°F for 20-30 minutes to improve the taste.
3. The Acid Catalyst: Place the bones in a large pot or slow cooker and cover with water. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. The acid helps demineralize the bones and pull the collagen into the water.
4. Low and Slow: Simmer on low heat. For chicken bones, 12 to 24 hours is ideal. For beef bones, you can go up to 48 hours.
5. Strain and Cool: Remove the bones and solids. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve.
6. The Gel Test: Place the broth in the fridge. If it turns into a thick jelly, you have successfully extracted a significant amount of collagen.

Turning Broth into Powder?

Some DIY enthusiasts try to turn their broth into powder by dehydrating it in an oven at a very low temperature and then grinding the dried sheets. While possible, it is extremely time-consuming and doesn't result in "hydrolyzed" peptides. It results in dried gelatin, which may not dissolve as easily in cold water and might cause more digestive work for your body than professional-grade peptides.

Bottom line: Bone broth is an excellent way to "make" collagen at home using heat and acid to extract protein from bones. It provides a rich source of amino acids but remains in a larger gelatin form rather than the fully hydrolyzed peptide form.

Collagen vs. Gelatin: Knowing the Difference

When learning how to make collagen peptides, many people get confused between collagen, gelatin, and peptides. Here is the breakdown:

Why Sourcing Matters for Your Collagen

Not all collagen is created equal. Because the process involves extracting protein from animal hides and bones, the quality of those animals dictates the quality of your supplement.

When we developed BUBS Naturals Collagen Peptides, we focused on two non-negotiable factors: the source and the certification. Our bovine collagen comes from grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle in South America. Why does this matter? Cattle raised on pasture without the use of unnecessary hormones or antibiotics produce a cleaner raw material.

Furthermore, because supplements are not strictly regulated by the FDA, you need to look for third-party testing. We ensure our products are NSF for Sport certified. This is the gold standard in the industry, proving that what is on the label is in the tub and that the product is free from contaminants and banned substances. This is especially important for the athletes and military personnel we serve.

Myth: Vegan collagen is just as effective as animal-based collagen. Fact: There is no such thing as "vegan collagen" in nature. Collagen is an animal-based protein. Products marketed as "vegan collagen" are typically just collections of vitamins (like Vitamin C) and amino acids designed to help your body produce its own collagen. They do not actually contain collagen peptides.

How to Use Your Collagen Peptides

Once you have high-quality collagen peptides—whether you bought them or spent two days simmering bones—the next step is getting them into your routine. Because hydrolyzed peptides are heat-stable and flavor-neutral, they are incredibly versatile.

In Your Morning Routine

The most common way to use peptides is in coffee or tea. Unlike gelatin, peptides won't clump or turn your coffee into gravy. They dissolve instantly. This provides a protein boost first thing in the morning without changing the ritual you love.

For Physical Recovery

Many athletes mix a scoop of our Creatine Monohydrate and Collagen Peptides into a post-workout shake. While creatine supports explosive power, the collagen peptides may support the repair of the connective tissues that take a beating during heavy lifting or long-distance rucking.

Homemade Collagen Gummies

If you want a fun way to get your collagen, you can combine the "DIY" and "Pro" methods.

1. Mix 1/2 cup of fruit juice with 2 tablespoons of unflavored gelatin.
2. Add 2 scoops of collagen peptides for an extra protein boost.
3. Add a touch of honey if needed.
4. Heat gently until dissolved (do not boil).
5. Pour into molds and refrigerate.

This gives you a portable, high-protein snack that supports your goals while satisfying a sweet tooth.

Note: Heat does not destroy collagen peptides. You can bake with them, stir them into boiling soups, or put them in hot coffee. The amino acid profile remains stable even at high temperatures, making them much more resilient than many other protein powders.

Optimizing Collagen Synthesis

Making or buying the best collagen peptides is only half the battle. Your body needs "co-factors" to actually use those amino acids to build its own collagen.

The Role of Vitamin C

You cannot synthesize collagen without Vitamin C. It is the essential spark plug for the enzyme that links amino acids together into the triple helix. If you are taking collagen but are deficient in Vitamin C, your body won't be able to utilize those peptides as effectively. This is why we recommend eating citrus, berries, or leafy greens alongside your collagen routine—or using a dedicated Vitamin C supplement.

Copper and Zinc

These trace minerals also play a role in the "cross-linking" of collagen fibers, which gives your tissues their strength and elasticity. A balanced diet rich in nuts, seeds, and lean meats usually provides enough of these to support the process.

Why Quality and Mission Matter

The journey of how to make collagen peptides is one of science and precision. From the careful hydrolysis in our facilities to the slow simmer of a bone broth on your stove, it’s all about breaking down a tough, resilient protein into something our bodies can use to heal and grow.

We didn't start BUBS Naturals just to sell another powder. We started it to honor the legacy of Glen "BUB" Doherty, a Navy SEAL who lived a life of adventure, fitness, and service. Every product we make, from our easy-mixing collagen to our clean MCT Oil Powder, is designed to help you live that same kind of high-performance life.

Whether you are rucking through the mountains, training for a marathon, or just trying to stay mobile as you age, the way your collagen is made matters. By choosing grass-fed, third-party tested peptides, you are giving your body the best possible tools for the job.

In honor of Glen’s legacy, we donate 10% of all our profits to veteran-focused charities. When you invest in your health with us, you are also supporting those who have served. Learn more about the brand on our About Bubs page.

• Collagen peptides are made through hydrolysis to ensure high bioavailability.
• DIY collagen can be made via long-simmered bone broth.
• Sourcing from grass-fed, pasture-raised animals is critical for purity.
• Vitamin C is a required co-factor for your body to process collagen.

Ready to see the difference for yourself? Our Collagen Peptides are designed to be the cleanest, easiest-mixing addition to your daily routine. One scoop, no BS—just results.

FAQ

Can I make collagen peptides from scratch at home?

While you can make bone broth, which is rich in collagen and gelatin, you cannot easily make "peptides" at home. Creating peptides requires specific enzymes and a controlled hydrolysis process to break the protein down into the low-molecular-weight chains found in professional supplements. Bone broth is a great whole-food alternative, but it is not as concentrated or as easy to absorb as hydrolyzed peptides.

What is the difference between collagen and hydrolyzed collagen?

"Collagen" refers to the whole protein found in animals, which is very large and hard to digest. "Hydrolyzed collagen" (or collagen peptides) is that same protein broken down into smaller pieces through a process called hydrolysis. This makes it water-soluble and much easier for your body to absorb and use for tissue repair and skin health.

Why do I need to add vinegar to my homemade bone broth?

Adding an acid like apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to your bone broth helps pull minerals and collagen out of the bones and connective tissues. The acid weakens the structure of the bone, making the extraction process more efficient during the long simmer. Without an acid, your broth may not "gel" as well, indicating a lower collagen content.

Does the heat from coffee or cooking damage collagen peptides?

No, collagen peptides are extremely heat-stable. The amino acids that make up the peptides do not denature or lose their nutritional value at standard cooking or brewing temperatures. You can safely stir them into boiling water, coffee, or even use them in baked goods like protein muffins without reducing their effectiveness.