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DolCas Biotech, a developer of nutraceuticals, is expanding its marine collagen product, Morikol, into the functional beverage market, specifically targeting hot drinks such as coffee, cocoa and tea.

The product will be featured at the upcoming SupplySide Global show in Las Vegas on October 29-30.

Morikol is derived from warm-water fish and is characterised by its ultra-low molecular weight, allowing for effective delivery of health benefits at low doses – for example, 1g daily for skin health and 2g daily for joint support.

The product contains bio-active tripeptides, specifically GXY, which are composed of essential amino acids: glycine, proline and hydroxyproline. These amino acids are absorbed intact in the intestinal lining via the PEPT1 transporter.

The manufacturing process of Morikol employs proprietary enzymatic techniques that break down collagen into small, bioactive peptides.

The resulting powder is flavourless and odourless, enabling easy incorporation into a variety of beverages without altering their sensory properties.

A recent survey by Innova Market Insights indicates that health-oriented drinks are among the top strategies consumers are using to achieve wellness, with a notable increase in the launch of beverages featuring health claims.

Morikol has already been integrated into a product by Cup of Joe, LLC’s Zend Wellness brand, which offers MetaGlow Collagen, a functional coffee featuring marine collagen.

This collaboration highlights the potential for Morikol to enhance various beverage applications, including tea, herbal infusions and powdered drink mixes.

Clinical studies have provided evidence for Morikol's effectiveness, demonstrating improvements in skin elasticity and hydration with a daily intake of 1g, while a 2g dose has shown benefits for joint health.

DolCas Biotech is positioning Morikol as a clean label option, free from added enhancers, appealing to manufacturers aiming to meet consumer demand for natural ingredients in their formulations.