How much collagen is in jello

Comparing Collagen in Jell-O to Other Foods

Collagen is found in many foods, though the amount can vary significantly. Here’s how Jell-O compares:

  • A single serving (1/2 cup) of Jell-O contains around 5 grams of collagen. This is quite high compared to most foods.
  • Meat with connective tissue like chicken skin or beef chuck contain 2-5 grams of collagen per 3 ounces. So Jell-O has a similar amount per serving.
  • Bone broth is one of the richest sources, with 2-10 grams per cup depending on the cooking time.
  • Some other foods with collagen include eggs (1 gram per large egg), berries like raspberries (around 1 gram per cup), and dark green vegetables like spinach (1-2 grams per cooked cup).

So Jell-O is one of the most concentrated food sources of collagen you can easily find. The collagen is broken down from animal byproducts during the manufacturing process. Overall it provides a decent amount per serving compared to meats and other higher collagen options.

Comparing Jell-O Collagen to Supplements

Collagen supplements have become increasingly popular in recent years. These provide anywhere from 5-20 grams of collagen per serving. Supplements sourced from fish, eggshells and chicken cartilage tend to be higher.

So supplements can provide more collagen per serving compared to Jell-O. However, the collagen in Jell-O may be absorbed better since it’s naturally integrated into food. Supplements also don’t provide the same enjoyment factor as having a tasty Jell-O snack or dessert. Ultimately both can be sensible options for getting more collagen into your diet.

Comparing Collagen Sources

The collagen in Jell-O is extracted and purified from animal byproducts, making it more concentrated compared to collagen naturally occurring in foods. For example, the collagen within chicken skin or bone broth is integrated into the proteins and fibers of the food itself. The manufacturing process for Jell-O isolates and concentrates the collagen into a soluble, flavorless powder that can be added during production. This results in a higher collagen content per serving compared to whole food sources. However, the matrix of proteins and fibers in natural foods may support better retention and bioavailability versus isolated collagen on its own.

Here are some lifestyle and dietary changes that can help increase natural collagen levels:

  • Get adequate vitamin C from foods like oranges, strawberries, broccoli and peppers or consider a supplement. Vitamin C is essential for collagen production.
  • Eat foods rich in amino acids like bone broth, eggs, beans, fish and chicken. Amino acids are needed to form collagen’s triple-helix structure.
  • Maintain a healthy weight. Excess fat leads to elevated inflammation which breaks down collagen.
  • Quit smoking. Smoking dramatically reduces collagen production and accelerates its breakdown.
  • Protect skin from excessive sun exposure. UV radiation damages collagen fibers leading to premature aging.
  • Incorporate weight-bearing and muscle-building exercises. Any exercise that promotes muscle growth can help boost collagen.
  • Manage stress levels. High cortisol leads to lowered collagen production and weaker skin.
  • Get adequate sleep. Lack of sleep leads to reduced collagen synthesis. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
Back to blog