Before You Buy Collagen Powder in Australia, Read This

May 29 2025, by Tatianna Gerard, 13 min reading time

If you’ve walked through the health aisle lately, you’ve probably noticed just how popular collagen has become. From beauty blends promising glowing skin to joint support powders for post-workout recovery, collagen is everywhere — and for good reason. It's a naturally occurring protein in our bodies that plays a key role in keeping our skin firm, our joints cushioned, and our gut lining supported.

But here’s the thing: not all collagen powders are created equal.

With so many options on the market, it’s easy to assume that any tub labelled “collagen” will deliver the same benefits. In reality, the quality, source, and formulation of collagen products can vary a lot — and that can make a real difference in how well they work (or whether they work at all).

If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed by the options, you're not alone. Luckily, Chief has put together a fantastic guide to some of the best collagen powders available in Australia, which is a great place to start if you're comparing brands.

In this article, we’ll go one step further and break down what actually makes a collagen powder high quality — so you know what to look for before you buy.

1. Source matters: Bovine, marine or chicken?

One of the first things to check when buying a collagen powder is where it comes from. Collagen can be derived from several sources — and each has its own benefits depending on what you're hoping to support in your body.

Bovine collagen (usually from cows) is the most common and is rich in Type I and Type III collagen. These types are especially beneficial for skin elasticity, hair and nail strength, muscle recovery, and gut health. Look for powders that specify grass-fed and pasture-raised sources for better quality.
Marine collagen (from fish skin or scales) is known for its smaller peptide size, which may make it easier for your body to absorb. It also primarily contains Type I collagen, which is ideal for skin health and anti-ageing benefits. If you’re pescatarian or want a more sustainably sourced option, marine collagen might appeal to you — just make sure it’s sustainably caught and tested for heavy metals.
Chicken collagen, though less common in powders, contains Type II collagen, which is best known for supporting joint cartilage and flexibility. It's often found in bone broth or joint-targeted supplements.

Each type has its perks — so the “best” one really comes down to your goals. Want smoother skin and stronger hair? Bovine or marine are great picks. Struggling with stiff joints or aching knees? Type II from chicken may be worth considering.

💡Quick tip: High-quality brands usually state the collagen source and type on the label. If it’s vague, that’s a red flag.

2. Type I, II or III? Know the collagen type that suits you

You might have seen collagen powders labeled with terms like Type I, Type II, or Type III — but what do they actually mean? They refer to different types of collagen naturally found in the body, and each one plays a unique role in keeping you healthy. Knowing which one you're getting can help you choose a product that better supports your specific needs.

Type I Collagen

This is the most abundant type of collagen in the human body, and for good reason. Type I provides tensile strength — meaning it helps keep skin firm, bones strong, and connective tissues resilient. It’s a major structural component of the skin, bones, tendons, ligaments, teeth, eyes, and blood vessels.

Best for: Skin elasticity, nail strength, hair growth, bone density, and general structural support.

Type III Collagen

Often found alongside Type I, Type III forms a reticular network that provides elasticity and support to tissues. It plays a vital role in the structure of muscles, organs, and blood vessels, and is also essential in wound healing and gut lining integrity.

Best for: Skin firmness, gut health, muscle structure, and cardiovascular support.

Together, Type I and III collagen make up over 90% of the body’s total collagen — so when you're looking for a beauty or general wellness supplement, powders that contain both types can offer well-rounded benefits.

Type II Collagen

Type II is a little different — it's the primary collagen found in cartilage and is especially important for joint and mobility support. While not as common in multi-type powders, it's ideal for anyone dealing with joint discomfort, stiffness, or arthritis.

Best for: Joint cushioning, flexibility, and supporting healthy cartilage.

3. Watch for fillers, sweeteners, and artificial additives

It’s easy to assume that all collagen powders are “clean” by default — after all, they’re health supplements, right? But not so fast. Many collagen products on the market include extra ingredients that don’t always add value, and in some cases, they might even work against your health goals.

Let’s break down what to look out for on the ingredient list:

1. Fillers and bulking agents

Some collagen powders use fillers to bulk up the product or improve texture, but they don’t provide any nutritional benefit. Common ingredients include:

Maltodextrin
Dextrose
Rice flour
Anti-caking agents

While these aren’t necessarily harmful in small amounts, they’re often used to cut down the actual amount of collagen per serve, meaning you’re paying more for less.

💡Tip: A high-quality collagen product should list collagen (e.g., “hydrolysed bovine collagen peptides”) as the first and primary ingredient — not hidden among a long list of additives.

2. Sweeteners & flavourings

Flavoured collagen powders are popular — especially chocolate, vanilla, or berry varieties — but they often come with added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Watch out for:

Sucralose
Aspartame
Acesulfame potassium
Sugar alcohols like sorbitol or maltitol

Some people find these sweeteners cause bloating or digestive discomfort, especially if taken daily. If you’re watching your sugar intake or have a sensitive stomach, opt for unflavoured collagen, which you can easily mix into smoothies, coffee, or soups without the added extras.

3. Artificial colours & flavours

These are typically unnecessary in a collagen supplement but are sometimes added for aesthetic or taste appeal. Since collagen is a functional product meant to support your body long-term, it’s best to avoid synthetic colours or flavourings that don’t serve a nutritional purpose.

Look for labels that say things like:

“No artificial colours or flavours”
“Naturally flavoured”
“Zero added sugars”

✅ What to look for instead

The ideal collagen powder has a short, simple ingredient list — often just collagen peptides and maybe a supportive vitamin (like vitamin C, which helps with collagen synthesis). A clean label not only makes it easier to trust the product, but also reduces the risk of unnecessary fillers or allergens.

4. Certifications & sourcing transparency

When it comes to choosing a collagen powder, the what is important — but so is the where and how. Understanding where your collagen comes from, how it’s processed, and whether it’s been independently tested can make all the difference in ensuring you’re getting a product that’s both effective and safe.

Here’s what to look out for when it comes to sourcing and certification:

Ethically sourced & sustainable ingredients

Not all collagen is created equal — and not all collagen is sourced responsibly. For bovine collagen, the gold standard is grass-fed and pasture-raised cattle, preferably from countries with strict animal welfare regulations (like Australia, New Zealand, or certain parts of Europe). This not only results in cleaner collagen but also supports more sustainable farming practices.

For marine collagen, choose brands that specify wild-caught fish and highlight sustainable fishing practices. Bonus points if the brand lists the species used (e.g., cod, snapper) and tests for heavy metals like mercury.

Third-party testing & quality assurance

A reputable collagen brand will often include:

Third-party lab testing for purity and potency
Certificates of Analysis (COA) available on request or online
Testing for heavy metals, contaminants, and microbiological safety

These tests ensure that the collagen powder contains what it claims — and nothing it shouldn’t. If you can’t find any mention of testing or certifications on the label or website, those are the ones you should stay away from.

Clean label & certifications to look for

If you're after additional peace of mind, look for collagen products that are:

Non-GMO
Gluten-free (especially if you’re coeliac or gluten-sensitive)
Certified Halal or Kosher, if relevant to your dietary preferences
Certified organic (more rare, but a plus for some ingredients)

Transparency is key. The best brands will proudly tell you where their collagen comes from, how it’s processed, and why they’ve made those choices. If a company is vague or doesn’t disclose these details, it’s fair to question the quality behind the label.

5. Sourcing transparency

Let’s face it — even the highest-quality collagen won’t do you any good if it just sits in your pantry because you don’t like how it tastes or it’s a pain to use.

That’s why taste and texture matter, especially if you’re planning to take collagen daily.

Mixability

Good collagen should dissolve easily and completely in both hot and cold liquids. If you find yourself constantly stirring or ending up with clumps at the bottom of your glass, that could be a sign of poor-quality or improperly processed collagen.

💡Tip: Look for hydrolysed or “collagen peptides” — these terms indicate the collagen has been broken down into smaller chains for easier absorption and smoother mixing.

Powder, capsules, gummies, or liquids?

Collagen now comes in a variety of formats, so it’s all about what fits best into your routine:

Powders offer flexibility and are often more cost-effective.
Capsules are convenient for travel or quick daily use.
Gummies or chews are a fun option, but often contain added sugar.
Liquid shots are pre-dosed and quick, though usually more expensive.

Choose the one you’ll actually use — because consistency matters more than the format.

6. Price vs. value: Why the cheapest isn’t always best

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest collagen powder on the shelf — but when it comes to supplements, you usually get what you pay for.

Here’s why spending a bit more often means getting a better product:

Lower price = less collagen per serve

Some budget-friendly collagen products dilute their formulas with fillers or use smaller serving sizes, so you may not be getting a therapeutic dose — which means fewer results over time.

Higher price often reflects:

Premium sourcing (e.g. grass-fed, wild-caught)
Better bioavailability (hydrolysed peptides)
Third-party testing and certifications
Cleaner formulations without unnecessary extras

That said, not all expensive products are worth it either. The key is to compare what you're actually getting per serve — and how well it aligns with your goals.

💡Smart tip: Do a quick cost-per-gram or cost-per-serve comparison when comparing collagen brands. It’s often more telling than just looking at the price tag.

Final tip: Start slow, stay consistent

Once you’ve picked a high-quality collagen powder, remember that results won’t happen overnight. Collagen supplements work best when taken consistently — often daily — and benefits typically show up over 6 to 12 weeks, depending on your body and health goals.

Tips for staying on track:

Mix it into your morning coffee or smoothie so it becomes part of your routine.
Pair it with vitamin C-rich foods (like citrus or berries) to help support collagen production.
Set a reminder if you tend to forget — consistency really is key.

And don’t forget: collagen is just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy lifestyle, good nutrition, and proper hydration all play a part in supporting your skin, joints, and overall wellbeing.

Conclusion: Choose smarter, not just trendier

With collagen powders everywhere these days, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed — but knowing what to look for helps you cut through the noise. From the collagen type to the ingredient list, sourcing transparency, and format that fits your lifestyle, choosing the right product can mean the difference between wasting money and actually seeing results.

If you’re still weighing up your options, Chief has done a fantastic job breaking down some of the best collagen powders in Australia — it’s a great resource for comparing brands. You can check out their full guide here.

Whatever you choose, make sure it works for YOU — your goals, your routine, and your standards.