Seagarden steps up collagen R&D as demand climbs; clinical study wraps this fall

Seagarden says growing global interest in collagen is being matched by a broader scientific evidence base—an effort the company is actively contributing to through clinical and lab studies. A company-run clinical trial is currently underway and is expected to conclude this fall, according to Chief Scientific Officer Geir Åsmund Myge Hansen.

Clinical evidence to date

• Prior human study (2022): Within the EU-funded Aquabioprofit project, Seagarden conducted a clinical study on salmon-derived collagen assessing overall skin health, nail strength, and hair quality.
• Design: 116 participants in a two-group, six-month protocol aimed at controlling potential placebo effects.
• Outcomes: Reported improvements included better skin health, fewer wrinkles, increased skin moisture, stronger nails, and reduced hair loss, consistent with findings from other researchers.

Current trial & research direction

• Ongoing trial: Seagarden’s clinical study is slated to finish this fall.
• Focus areas: Hansen emphasizes larger sample sizes and longer durations going forward, with plans to test additional health variables and evaluate different dosages to deepen understanding of effects.

Lab work (in vitro)

Beyond human studies, Seagarden funds cell-based (in vitro) research where skin cells are cultured on collagen-containing media to observe effects at the cellular level.

Collaboration pipeline

• Seagarden participates in BLUEWAYSE – Blue Ways to a Sustainable Europe.
• The company also has six applications under evaluation: two larger international projects, one national collaboration, and three independent projects seeking funding through Norway’s SkatteFUNN scheme.

“It is an exciting time for nutraceuticals in general, and for anyone interested in the potential applications of collagen,” Hansen said.

This article is based on Seagarden’s update on ongoing and prior collagen research activities.