Put it simply, collagen is a kind of large molecule with an average molecular weight around 300,000, gelatin is a middle molecule with an average molecular weight around 50,000, and 3,000 for gelatin hydrolysate.

Gelatin and collagen are often talked together, both are proteins and similar in amino acid composition. Although these two substances have homology, they are different in physical & chemical properties and uses because of the different manufacturing processes.

Gelatin is the partially hydrolyzed product of collagen through irreversible thermal denaturation and can be called “cooked collagen” as it is obtained by heating collagen for a long time.

Collagen is insoluble in water, whereas gelatin is soluble in warm water. Gelatin is usually used as a gelling agent, thickener or emulsifier in food and pharmaceutical applications, while collagen peptides are functional ingredients that are primarily consumed for the nutraceutical value and health benefits.