Gelken Releases Formulation Guide for Collagen Gummies

Gelken, a manufacturer specializing in gelatin-based ingredients, has released a new formulation guide for the production of collagen gummies. The guide, titled "How to Make Collagen Gummies: A Manufacturer Formulation Guide," is aimed at brand owners and contract manufacturers looking to produce high-quality, functional confectionery.

The company notes that collagen gummies have transitioned from a niche supplement segment to mainstream functional snacks. Their success hinges on precise formulation, with Gelken emphasizing that standard gummy recipes are insufficient. Incorporating collagen peptides presents challenges, including protein interactions, achieving a significant solid load in a small confection, and ensuring product claims are supported throughout its shelf life.

For manufacturing, gelatin is recommended as the primary gelling agent due to its compatibility with collagen and the elastic texture it provides. Pectin is offered as an alternative for vegan positioning, though it requires a different process and yields a shorter, more brittle bite. Gelken suggests that the choice of gelling agent is a technical decision tied to brand positioning and target consumers.

Key formulation steps highlighted include hydrating gelatin in cool water, preparing the syrup phase to target solids content, and uniformly dispersing collagen peptides into a slightly cooled mass. Acids, flavors, and colors should be added last to avoid weakening the gel network. Precise humidity control during drying and packaging is also critical for product quality.