Collagen powder is a fan favorite — and for good reason.
It’s incredibly versatile, blending seamlessly into coffee, smoothies, protein shakes, and even baked goods like pancakes and muffins. With just one scoop, you get around 7-10g of hydrolyzed collagen protein. There are plenty of creative ways to incorporate it into your routine.
But collagen supplements come in various forms, and gummies are one of the more intriguing options. How do they compare to powder? Do they deliver the same benefits? Are they just as effective? And most importantly — should you take gummies over powder?
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about collagen gummies vs. collagen powder so you can make the best choice for your needs.
Gummies & Powder: Two Popular Collagen Supplements
There are multiple forms of collagen supplements on the market. Aside from powders and gummies, there are also pills, liquids, shots, and bars. More on the best way to take collagen where we explore these six different forms. If you’re interested in comparing powder to another popular form, don’t miss these 2 comparison guides:
But, back to gummies and powder. Why are these two forms so popular? Plainly put, they’re some of the easiest ways to get collagen into your diet.
Here’s why people love collagen powder and gummies so much:
- Convenient – No complicated mixing required.
- Portable – Great for travel, though gummies are easier on-the-go.
- No refrigeration needed – Both are shelf-stable.
- Simple ingredients – Though gummies often contain added sugars and flavorings.
- Easy consumption – Gummies are chewable, while powders mix into drinks and foods.
Collagen Gummies vs Powder: Introduction
I mean, come on. Gummies? Who doesn’t love a gummy?
They look like candy. They don’t quite taste like candy. But, my heart flutters a little every time I hold one. Maybe it’s because I ate too many Sour Patch Kids back in the day?
Collagen gummies are beloved by kids (so we’ve heard), which is a serious pro since collagen has awesome benefits for kids. Other supplements (e.g., vitamins) rule the gummy market. But, from our research, a quality collagen gummy is a little harder to find and purchase.
Similarities between Collagen Gummies and Powder
- Both provide collagen protein, supporting skin, hair, nails, joints, and gut health.
- Both can be hydrolyzed collagen (collagen peptides), meaning they are broken down for better absorption.
- Both are easy to consume, though in different ways.
- Both can be flavored, depending on the brand and product.
MORE FROM COLLAGEN COLLEGE™
Collagen vs Collagen Peptides (aka Hydrolyzed Collagen!)
Differences Between Collagen Gummies and Powder
There’s a big difference in form and presentation between a collagen gummy and a scoop of collagen powder.
Gummies
- Chewable
- Candy-like texture
- Easy for on-the-go consumption
- More appealing for kids
Powder
- Versatile and mixable with liquids
- Can be mixed into baked goods (e.g. pancakes, muffins)
- Typically unflavored or lightly flavored
Ingredients Comparison
Gummies
- Often contain added sugars or sugar substitutes.
- May include corn syrup, malt syrup, sweeteners, acids, flavorings, glazing agents, yeast, colorings, and acidity regulators.
- Typically include binding agents, flavorings, and acids for texture and taste.
- Less collagen per serving – it takes ~9 gummies to equal 1 scoop of collagen powder.
Powder
- Usually contains just collagen peptides (aka hydrolyzedcollagen).
- Can be sourced from bovine, marine, or other animal-based sources.
- No added sugars or unnecessary fillers (if using a high-quality product).
Efficacy: Which Works Best?
Here’s where collagen powder starts to distance itself from gummies.
Collagen Per Serving
- Gummies – 4 collagen gummies typically provide 3g of collagen protein.
- Powder – 1 scoop typically provides 7g of collagen protein.
Most Effective Option
- Collagen powder wins in terms of collagen content per serving. It delivers a significantly higher amount in one dose.
Absorption & Bioavailability
Do Collagen Gummies Work?
Yes, collagen gummies do work, as they contain collagen peptides that your body can absorb and use. However, their effectiveness depends on the amount of collagen per serving. Since gummies typically contain much less collagen than powder, you would need to consume a significant number of gummies daily to match the benefits of a single scoop of powder.
Do Collagen Gummies Absorb Better Than Powder?
Does your body digest collagen gummies more easily than powder? Is there any scientific evidence proving that gummies are more bioavailable? Not exactly.
Google enough, and you’ll find claims like:
Collagen gummies are absorbed faster than powder.
— Some people
Fact check time. There is no scientific evidence supporting the idea that collagen in gummy form absorbs better than powder. Collagen peptides — whether in gummies or powder — are already hydrolyzed for easy absorption.
What the Science Says About Collagen Bioavailability
Collagen, in its raw form, is a large protein that your body cannot easily absorb. However, when collagen is hydrolyzed into collagen peptides, it becomes highly bioavailable. This is why both powder and gummies work — because they contain these peptides.
There’s no reason to worry about collagen, whether in powder or gummy form, being digested. Collagen is one of the most easily absorbed proteins you can consume.
— Dr. Cate, M.D.
So, is there a meaningful difference in absorption between powder and gummies? No. The bioavailability of collagen peptides remains the same regardless of whether it’s in powder, gummy, pill, or liquid form.
Value: Which is More Cost-Effective?
This comparison is pretty straightforward & simple:
- Collagen powder is more cost-effective per gram of collagen.
- Collagen gummies, while convenient, provide much less collagen per serving and often cost more per gram.
If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, powder is the way to go.
Comparison Table
Still need help deciding if collagen gummies are better for you than collagen powder? Here’s a quick visual comparison table to help.
| Powder | Gummies | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| What's in a container | 58 scoops | 120 gummies | |
| Serving Size | 1 scoop | 4 gummies | |
| Collagen Protein per serving (see RDA for collagen) | 7g | ~3g | |
| Price per 7g of collagen | ~$0.75 per 1 scoop | ~$1.28 (9 gummies) | |
| Added Ingredients | None (unless flavored) | May include corn syrup, malt syrup, sweeteners, acids, flavorings, glazing agents, yeast, colorings, and acidity regulators. | |
| Available in a multi collagen | ✓ Yes | Very limited | |
| Absorption | Same | ||
| Bioavailable | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | |
| Consumption | Add to liquids or food, then drink/eat | Eat | |
| Preparation | Stirring, Shaking, Blending, Cooking | None needed | |
| Portability | Requires placing powder in plastic bag/container or buying travel packs | Easy, on-the-go | |
| Kid-friendly? | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | |
Conclusion: Are Gummies better than Powder?
If you love the convenience and taste, gummies are a fun way to supplement collagen — especially for kids.
If you want the best value, highest collagen intake, and most effective results, collagen powder is the clear winner.
Until quality collagen gummies become more widely available, you can even make your own — just Google “collagen gummy recipe,” and you’ll find something easy to whip up at home!
