For most of human history, collagen-rich foods were part of everyday diets. Slow-cooked bones, connective tissues and gelatinous cuts delivered protein and essential amino acids to support skin, joints, and connective tissue.
Today collagen is often taken as a supplement. Choosing a grass-fed collagen powder is one simple way to prioritise both traceability and farming standards. That makes sourcing more important than ever.
Not all collagen is produced the same way, and how the animals are raised impacts both ethical standards and ingredient integrity.
Grass-fed, pasture-based systems differ in several important ways from intensive farming models. Here are four reasons why sourcing matters.
Grass-fed, pasture-raised cattle spend time outdoors on open pasture, where they can graze and forage in a way they are biologically adapted to. These systems allow animals to move freely, access fresh air and sunlight, and follow more natural feeding patterns.
In contrast, intensive factory farming typically relies on confined indoor housing and grain-based feeds, often derived from corn or soy. These diets are designed to accelerate growth but can place strain on ruminant digestive systems and can increase the likelihood of antibiotic use to manage disease risk in crowded conditions.
Pasture-based farming systems generally support higher welfare standards. With outdoor access and lower animal stock density, cattle can move more naturally and experience less stress, which can also reduce the need for routine interventions.
Cattle are biologically adapted to graze fibrous plants such as grass. Supporting farming systems that align with that natural diet helps promote healthier livestock and more responsible production.
Beyond animal welfare, pasture-based farming can play a role in supporting soil health through natural fertilisation and reduced reliance on large-scale grain cultivation. When managed well, pasture systems can also contribute to healthier ecosystems and more balanced land use.
Grain-fed systems require significant agricultural inputs. Producing feed crops at scale places pressure on land, water, and energy resources. By reducing dependence on intensive feed production, pasture-raised systems may support a more sustainable approach to farming.
Grass-fed meat and dairy products tend to have a different nutritional profile compared to conventionally raised alternatives. Research suggests they are often lower in total fat and provide higher levels of certain vitamins, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, alongside a more favourable omega-3 to omega-6 ratio.
While collagen peptides themselves are primarily a protein ingredient, sourcing still matters— because it reflects farming standards, traceability, and the values behind the supply chain.
Given collagen’s role throughout the body, from connective tissue and joints to skin structure and gut lining, ingredient quality and sourcing are key considerations when choosing a supplement.
Choosing collagen sourced from grass-fed cattle supports farming methods that prioritise animal welfare, environmental responsibility, and ingredient integrity — which is why we use LIAF-certified grass-fed collagen peptide ingredients.
For those who prefer an alternative, our Marine Collagen is sourced from wild-caught fisheries that meet the MSC standard, supporting a well-managed, sustainable fishery and supply chain.
Planet Paleo also uses Soil Association certified organic bone broth ingredients, so you’re not just choosing collagen — you’re choosing ingredients with clearer standards, traceability, and accountability behind them.
