If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Gelatin brings to mind a flavored, colorful dessert. However, gelatin is also a common ingredient in soups, broths, sauces, gummy candies, marshmallows, cosmetics, and medications. Its high protein content makes gelatin a popular choice for those who are recovering from an illness. Some people take gelatin or its components as a supplement. Gelatin and collagen contain similar proteins, and laboratory tests have suggested that consuming gelatin as part of a varied diet may provide similar benefits. Manufacturers produce gelatin by processing animal bones, cartilage, and skin. People can also make it from fish. This process extracts the collagen — a fibrous protein that connects muscles, bones, and skin in animals — and turns it into gelatin, a flavorless, colorless substance with a jelly-like texture. In this article, learn about the possible health benefits of gelatin.

Amino acids in gelatin Share on Pinterest Gelatin can provide health benefits due to its high protein content. Protein consists of various amino acids, and gelatin contains several of these. The amino acids in gelatin based foods will depend on the item, the source of the gelatin, and the way the manufacturer processes it. The bones and organs of some animals also contain the amino acids found gelatin. Most people do not eat those parts of the animal, but they can obtain them by eating gelatin. The most common amino acids in gelatin include: glycine

proline

valine Valine is an essential amino acid that the human body cannot produce. This means it must come from the diet. Some forms of gelatin also contain: lysine

alanine

arginine Some people take these as food supplements, but gelatin could be an alternative source.

Tips for using gelatin Gelatin is present in many premade food items, but it is also easy to add to dishes at home. Sprinkling gelatin powder in a smoothie, for example, can add a protein boost. Gelatin is available in grocery stores and online. Mousses and jello Gelatin can add shape and texture to sweet and savory mousses and jello. To use gelatin powder, it is first necessary to “bloom” it in cold water, then add hot water to dissolve it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for timing and quantities. Using more water will give a softer consistency. Here are some sample recipes: Healthy homemade jello

Elderflower jelly

Smoked or poached salmon mousse with dill sauce

Avocado mousse with lime Homemade stock People can make gelatin-rich broth at home by cooking the leftover carcass or bones of poultry or beef. For extra flavor, add a whole carrot and onion and some herbs before cooking. Cover the bones with water, bring to the boil, and allow to simmer for 1–2 hours. Check from time to time to ensure it does not boil dry, and add extra water if necessary. When the broth cools, the person will see a gel-substance on the surface. They can use this at once as the basis of a soup or stew, or freeze it for future use. Using up leftovers in this way can also help the environment by reducing food waste.

Risks Not all food that contains gelatin will be healthful. People should check for fat and sugar content, especially if they have certain health conditions. The quality of gelatin in food may depend on: the health of the animal it comes from

the method of processing

the other ingredients in a dish or product Some people have voiced concerns that consuming gelatin may increase the risk of some animal-borne diseases, such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE). However, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), gelatin from cows is permissible, as long as manufacturers process it according to safety guidelines. There is little information about the adverse effects of consuming gelatin. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) note that taking gelatin by mouth is likely safe. They add that it is probably safe to take up to 10 g as supplements for up to 6 months. Gelatin is an animal based product. It is not suitable as part of a vegan or vegetarian diet. People who wish to add the same texture to their food without using animal products can use agar-agar, a seaweed based product. However, this will not contain the same levels of protein as gelatin. Agar-agar powder and flakes are available for purchase online.