Multi-talented gelatin has played diverse roles in many foods such as confections, dairy products, desserts, processed meats and beverages, as well as in pharmaceutical products. Collagen hydrolysate, a special type of gelatin, is becoming more important in the functional food industry for its purported health benefits.
The GELITA[r] Group, headquartered in Eberbach, Germany, offers a range of gelatins and collagen hydrolysates under the GELITA brand name. GELITA Collagen Hydrolysates provide both functionality and health-enhancing benefits to the growing functional food market. According to Oliver Wolf, corporate communications, GELITA Group, these collagen hydrolysates have been shown in clinical studies to improve joint mobility, form and build joint cartilage, help firm and make the joints more elastic, and enhance the formation of healthy skin, strong hair and nails.1,2,3 The collagen hydrolysates are comprised of a pure collagenous protein with a minimum level of salts.