„Strong Joints, Gentle Footprint – Health and Sustainability in Harmony“
At a time when consumers are seeking products that are both effective for their health and environmentally responsible, MAGNESIA offers a highly compelling solution with NT-IITM: an undenatured type II collagen sustainably sourced from salmon bones.
NT-IITM is the name for the bioactive type II collagen offered by MAGNESIA – a specific form derived from the cartilage tissue of vertebrates that differs significantly from hydrolyzed or denatured types of collagen. The key factor is the preservation of the natural triple-helical structure, which is responsible for its targeted effect on joint health. This intact structure makes NT-IITM a particularly compelling alternative, both functionally and ecologically, in the field of collagen products.
But what exactly is collagen? What types are there? What distinguishes hydrolyzed collagen from native collagen, and why is NT-IITM from salmon bones a particularly sustainable and efficient choice?
What is collagen, and how do collagen peptides differ?
Collagen is the most abundant structural protein in the human body, accounting for approximately 25–30% of total protein mass. It is essential for the mechanical strength and elasticity of many tissues, as it consists of long, stable fiber structures that provide both stability and flexibility to the body.
In contrast, collagen peptides are smaller fragments obtained through the hydrolysis of collagen. These peptides are characterized by their smaller molecular size, which allows the body to absorb and process them more easily.
Collagen plays a central role in many areas of the body: in the muscles, it contributes to the stability and functionality of muscle fibers, while in the tendons, it acts as a vital link between muscles and bones. In the skin, collagen provides firmness and elasticity; in the ligaments, it ensures joint stability and mobility. It is also crucial in cartilage, where it provides shock-absorbing and smooth-moving properties, and in the bones, its close interaction with calcium and phosphate ensures both strength and flexibility.
As we age — particularly from the age of 25 onward—the body’s natural collagen production begins to decline, which can lead to visible signs of aging and reduced tissue function. Collagen peptides like NT-IITM, obtained through the enzymatic breakdown of collagen, can stimulate collagen metabolism and specifically promote the regeneration of tissues. In doing so, they help maintain and improve the elasticity and strength of the skin, bones, and joints.
Not All Collagen Is the Same: A Comparison of Typesh
Collagen is an incredibly diverse structural component. A total of 28 different types of collagen (Types I to XXVIII) are known, along with at least ten additional proteins that share collagen-like structural features. These types can be grouped into various subcategories, each serving specific functions within the body.
For use in dietary supplements and functional foods, three types of collagen are particularly important: Type I, Type II, and Type III.
A targeted intake of these collagen types can help slow down skin aging, prevent joint discomfort, and maintain the structural integrity of tissues – both in cosmetic and medical contexts.
Typ I Collagen:
This type accounts for the largest share of collagen in the human body and is primarily found in the skin, tendons, bones, and ligaments. It plays a key role in maintaining the stability of the skeletal system and is crucial for the firmness and elasticity of the skin.
Typ II Collagen:
Type II collagen is found predominantly in cartilage tissue, where it plays a central role in shock absorption, elastic mobility, and the structural stability of the joints. This makes it especially relevant for products designed to support joint health
Typ III Collagen:
This type is present in the skin and connective tissue, supporting the collagen structure of Type I. It plays an important role in skin regeneration, vascular structure, and the overall elasticity of the tissue.
Sources of Collagen and Their Characteristics:
 |  |  |  | |
| Origin | Skin, Bones & Connective Tissue | Skin & Bones | Cartilage, Bones & Skin | Skin, Scales & Bones of Fish |
| Collagen Types | I, III | I, III | II | I, II |
| Characteristics | Relevance for Skin and Connective Tissue | Similarity to Human Collagen | - Low Content of Type I and Type III – Focus on Type II Collagen (Chicken Sternum) | – Antioxidant Characteristics – Smaller Molecular Size for Easier Absorption |
| Benefits | – High Availability and Established Processes – Robust Quality and Peptide Stability | – Good Tolerability and Bioavailability – Traditional Use in the Food and Medical Industries | – Easy Digestibility and Absorption – Supports Cartilage Regeneration and Joint Health | – More Affordable than Poultry Collagen – Easily Digestible with High Bioavailability – Promotes Cartilage Regeneration and Joint Health – Sustainable Use of By-Products from the Fishing Industry |
| Disadvantages | Potential Consumer Concerns Regarding Animal Welfare and Source | – Religious Restrictions for Certain Groups – Potential Concerns About Animal Welfare and Source | – Limited Application Range (Primarily Type II Collagen) – Less Culturally Common in Some Regions – Higher Cost Due to Complex Extraction Processes | Higher Costs Compared to Bovine and Porcine Collagen |
Caution with “Vegan Collagen”
Plant-based alternatives are increasingly being marketed as “vegan collagen,” even though they do not contain real collagen. These products are usually based on amino acid blends derived from raw materials such as corn, soy, or wheat. These amino acid complexes are intended to theoretically provide the body with the building blocks needed for natural collagen production. However, these products lack a crucial component: the bioactive peptides found only in animal collagen.
Those aiming to specifically improve skin elasticity, promote joint health, or counteract skin aging should rely on high-quality animal collagen, which has scientifically proven effects on the skin, bones, and joints — an advantage that vegan alternatives currently cannot offer.
Effect Through Oral Tolerance
The unique effect of NT-IITM is based on the activation of regulatory immune processes in the gut. Small amounts of native collagen stimulate the immune system to become more tolerant toward collagen-containing tissues. As a result, NT-IITM can reduce joint inflammation, relieve pain, and improve mobility — all at a low dosage.
Numerous studies confirm its effectiveness: just 40 mg of undenatured type II collagen is sufficient to achieve a significant improvement in joint function. This corresponds to approximately 240 mg of NT-IITM , making it a particularly attractive alternative to high-dose hydrolyzed products.
Comparison: Hydrolyzed vs. Non-Hydrolyzed Collagen
These two modes of action — supply (hydrolysate) versus regulation (NT-IITM) — represent the fundamental difference between traditional collagen hydrolysates and the targeted, immunologically active approach of the non-hydrolyzed collagen NT-IITM.
Hydrolyzed Collagen
Hydrolyzed collagen is produced by enzymatically breaking down long collagen chains into smaller peptides. This process makes the product highly soluble and bioavailable but also comes with certain challenges:
- Individual manufacturing process: Different peptidases produce varying mixtures of amino acids and peptides, which can be targeted to act on bone, muscle, or skin cells.
- Good water solubility: Hydrolysis breaks collagen down into smaller, highly water-soluble peptides.
- Effect Depends on Peptide Pattern: The biological effect largely depends on the peptide composition rather than the quantity.
- High Dosage Required for Effect: Noticeable benefits often require higher daily doses (several grams).
- Purpose: Nutrient Supply: The primary function is to provide amino acids and peptides to support various tissues
Non-Hydrolyzed Collagen (NT-IITM)
In contrast, with non-hydrolyzed collagen, the protein’s natural structure is fully preserved. This leads to a fundamentally different mode of action:
- Unchanged Structure: NT-IITM remains fully intact in its natural triple-helical form, as it is not broken down.
- Immunomodulatory Effect: It works through oral tolerance, regulating inflammation—especially relevant for joint health.
- Effective at Low Dosage: Just 40 mg daily is sufficient for an effect — significantly less than hydrolyzed collagen.
- Biological Signaling: Its action is based on immune interaction, not nutrient supply.
- Targeted for Inflammation: Particularly suitable for alleviating inflammatory joint conditions.
Why is NT-IITM from salmon bones the better choice?
NT-IITM is produced from salmon bones—a by-product of fish processing that would otherwise go to waste. This zero-waste utilization not only contributes to efficient resource use but also actively helps reduce organic waste in the food industry.
Unlike conventional collagen sources such as beef, pork, or chicken breast bone, which are often associated with intensive animal farming and significant environmental impact, NT-IITM offers a markedly more environmentally friendly alternative:
- Salmon farming requires significantly less water compared to conventional livestock farming,
- uses less land area,
- and consumes substantially lower amounts of feed.
As a result, fish farming generates significantly lower CO₂ emissions, which positively impacts the climate footprint. Additionally, the production of NT-IITM uses raw materials that do not compete directly with human food sources—especially regarding grains, which are commonly used as animal feed in livestock farming.
Another advantage: NT-IITM is not only equally effective as other animal collagen sources but also significantly more cost-effective. This allows your customers to receive a high-quality solution with an excellent price-performance ratio—both sustainable and economical.
The use of by-products from fish processing aligns with the principles of the circular economy and supports a sustainable value creation system. Thus, NT-IITM stands not only for high functional quality but also for responsible use of raw materials.
Request more information about NT-IITM now:
Request our sales materials for NT-IITM now to receive exciting and in-depth information about our innovative product for joint health!
- Unique Origin & Gentle Processing
- Scientifically Proven Mechanism of Action
- Natural Composition with High Efficacy
- Clinically Proven Results for Joint Health
