The functional ingredients industry is experiencing a critical transformation. With increasing regulatory scrutiny in major markets, there is a demand for peer-reviewed clinical research to support product claims rather than relying on marketing narratives.
Regulatory Changes and Market Impact
In the United States, the FDA’s evolving stance on structure-function claims is influencing ingredient suppliers to adapt their portfolios. Similarly, European legislation on health claims imposes rigorous proof requirements on manufacturers. This shift poses a challenge for those in the collagen sector who have traditionally relied on commodity hydrolysates with broad wellness claims.
CollaSel’s Positioning and Research
Sel Sanayi A.Ş. and its brand CollaSel are embracing this transformation by investing in clinical validation. In the past two years, they have published three peer-reviewed clinical studies and adopted a technical approach to bioactive peptide production.
The March 2026 issue of Biomedicines featured a study by the University of Milan’s Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. It evaluated CollaSel Tripeptide, a bioactive peptide developed by Sel Sanayi. Researchers found that its ACE and DPP-IV inhibitory activity and GLP-1 stimulation properties showed superior bioactivity compared to standard collagen hydrolysate. These findings indicate potential applications in cardiometabolic health and weight management.
Innovative Collagen Products
Sel Sanayi’s collagen products, such as CollaSel Pro, have been the focus of clinical studies. These studies, published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, showed improvements in skin elasticity and joint health, demonstrating the effectiveness of their products.
The unique selling point of CollaSel Tripeptide lies in its smaller molecular size, which ranges from 300 to 500 Daltons, compared to conventional collagen supplements weighing between 2,000 and 5,000 Daltons. Researchers suggest that the smaller size enhances absorption, allowing it to pass through the intestinal wall intact via the PepT1 transport system. This results in roughly 2.7 to 3.3 times greater absorption than standard collagen products.
Focus on Scientific Validation
Selim Tezman, CEO of Sel Sanayi and CollaSel, emphasizes that their commitment to clinical validation is an operational standard, not merely a marketing tool. He notes that products without scientific substantiation face a diminishing position in regulated markets, whether in the United States, Europe, or Asia.
Company Background and Future Direction
Though collagen as a supplement is a recent development, Sel Sanayi has been in the industry since 1961. The company exports 95 percent of its production to 45 countries, supplying various sectors such as pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals.
Sel Sanayi has been investing significantly in expanding production facilities and strengthening R&D infrastructure. They aim to broaden their bioactive ingredient portfolio with new protein derivatives.
Tezman views the industry’s shift towards clinical research as a durable change, advocating for a production philosophy backed by scientific evidence, ultimately benefiting patients, consumers, and the industry.