Best UC-II Collagen Supplements (2026)

UC-II (undenatured type II collagen) is a patented form of collagen derived from chicken sternum cartilage that supports joint health through a unique immune-mediated mechanism. Unlike hydrolyzed collagen peptides, UC-II works at just 40 mg per day to promote joint comfort, flexibility, and mobility — backed by multiple human clinical studies.

Quick Comparison

Product	UC-II Dose	Form	Best For	Rating
NOW UC-II Type II Collagen (120 ct)	40 mg	Veg Capsules	Best Overall	4.6/5
Healthy Origins UC-II (120 ct)	40 mg	Veggie Caps	Best Value	4.5/5
NOW UC-II Advanced Joint Relief	40 mg + HA, Boron, D3	Veg Capsules	Best Advanced Formula	4.5/5
Life Extension NT2 Collagen	40 mg	Capsules	Best Premium	4.6/5
Bronson UC-II Type II Collagen	40 mg	Capsules	Best Budget Pick	4.4/5
Naturalis UC-II with Hyaluronic Acid	40 mg + HA	Softgels	Best Softgel	4.5/5
NOW BioCell Collagen Hydrolyzed Type II	1000 mg BioCell	Veg Capsules	Best Hydrolyzed Type II	4.5/5

1. NOW UC-II Type II Collagen (120 Veg Capsules) — Best Overall

NOW’s UC-II delivers the clinically studied 40 mg dose of patented undenatured type II collagen in a convenient one-capsule-per-day format with a 4-month supply per bottle.

Each veg capsule provides 40 mg of UC-II standardized chicken cartilage (providing 10 mg total collagen including undenatured type II collagen) plus 250 mg Aquamin seaweed-derived minerals and 80 mg calcium. The formula is Non-GMO, soy-free, dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, and manufactured in an NPA A-rated GMP certified facility. Take one capsule daily at bedtime on an empty stomach for best results.

• Pros:
• Clinically studied patented UC-II ingredient at the full 40 mg dose
• 120-count bottle provides excellent 4-month value
• Added Aquamin seaweed minerals for complementary bone and joint support

• Cons:
• Contains chicken-derived ingredients (not suitable for vegetarians/vegans)
• Must be taken on an empty stomach at bedtime for optimal absorption

Best for: Anyone seeking a well-researched, cost-effective UC-II supplement with a long-lasting supply

2. Healthy Origins UC-II 40 mg (120 Veggie Caps) — Best Value

Healthy Origins delivers a pure, no-frills UC-II formula with the full 40 mg clinically studied dose at one of the lowest per-capsule prices on the market.

Each vegetarian capsule provides 40 mg of UC-II brand undenatured type II collagen derived from chicken sternum cartilage. The formula is produced using a patented, low-temperature, non-enzymatic process that preserves collagen bioavailability. Free from wheat, gluten, fish, shellfish, egg, soy, peanuts, and milk. Made, encapsulated, and packaged in the USA. Family-owned company since 1996.

• Pros:
• Clean, minimal-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
• Excellent price per serving for a 4-month supply
• Free from all major allergens

• Cons:
• No added complementary joint-support ingredients like hyaluronic acid
• Capsule size may be slightly large for some users

Best for: Budget-conscious shoppers who want pure UC-II without extras

3. NOW UC-II Advanced Joint Relief (60 Veg Capsules) — Best Advanced Formula

This upgraded UC-II formula combines the patented 40 mg dose with hyaluronic acid, boron, and vitamin D3 for comprehensive joint support in a single daily capsule.

Each capsule includes 40 mg UC-II undenatured type II collagen, plus complementary joint-health ingredients: hyaluronic acid for synovial fluid support, boron for bone metabolism, and vitamin D3 for calcium absorption and overall skeletal health. GMP quality assured with NPA A-rated certification. Take one capsule daily at bedtime on an empty stomach.

• Pros:
• Multi-ingredient approach addresses joint health from multiple angles
• Includes vitamin D3 and boron for bone support
• Still only requires one capsule per day

• Cons:
• Only 60-count (2-month supply) vs. the standard 120-count option
• Higher cost per serving than the basic UC-II formula

Best for: Those who want a comprehensive joint formula with UC-II plus complementary bone and joint nutrients

4. Life Extension NT2 Collagen (60 Capsules) — Best Premium

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Life Extension’s NT2 Collagen provides 40 mg of undenatured type II collagen backed by the brand’s rigorous testing standards and reputation for science-based formulations.

Each small capsule delivers 40 mg of standardized undenatured type II collagen. Life Extension is known for extensive third-party testing, Certificate of Analysis availability, and adherence to cGMP standards. The formula contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. One capsule daily provides clinically relevant joint support.

• Pros:
• Backed by Life Extension’s reputation for quality and transparency
• Small, easy-to-swallow capsule
• Extensive third-party testing and quality documentation

• Cons:
• Premium price point compared to other UC-II options
• 60-count bottle lasts only 2 months

Best for: Consumers who prioritize brand reputation, transparency, and rigorous quality testing

5. Bronson UC-II Type II Collagen (30 Capsules) — Best Budget Pick

Bronson’s UC-II capsules offer the patented 40 mg undenatured type II collagen at the most affordable entry point for first-time users.

Each capsule provides 40 mg of UC-II brand undenatured type II collagen from chicken cartilage. Bronson has been a trusted supplement manufacturer since 1960, with over 50 years of heritage in the vitamin industry. The formula is designed to turn off the body’s joint-damaging process and rebuild healthy, flexible cartilage. GMP certified facility production.

• Pros:
• Lowest upfront cost — ideal for trying UC-II before committing to a larger bottle
• Trusted brand with 60+ years in the supplement industry
• Standard clinically studied 40 mg UC-II dose

• Cons:
• Only 30-count (1-month supply) — higher per-capsule cost long-term
• No added joint support ingredients

Best for: First-time UC-II users who want to trial the ingredient before buying a larger supply

6. Naturalis UC-II 40 mg with Hyaluronic Acid (120 Softgels) — Best Softgel

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Naturalis combines 40 mg UC-II with hyaluronic acid and shea nut oil in easy-to-swallow softgels for enhanced absorption and joint lubrication support.

Each softgel delivers 40 mg of patented UC-II undenatured type II collagen plus hyaluronic acid for synovial fluid support and shea nut oil as a natural carrier for improved bioavailability. The softgel format is gentler on the stomach than standard capsules. 120-count bottle provides a full 4-month supply. Gluten-free and Non-GMO.

• Pros:
• Softgel format is easier to swallow than hard capsules
• Added hyaluronic acid supports joint lubrication
• 120-count for long-lasting value

• Cons:
• Contains gelatin softgel (not suitable for vegetarians)
• Shea nut oil may be a concern for those with tree nut sensitivities

Best for: Those who prefer softgels and want added hyaluronic acid for joint lubrication

7. NOW BioCell Collagen Hydrolyzed Type II (120 Veg Capsules) — Best Hydrolyzed Type II

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For those who prefer hydrolyzed (broken-down) type II collagen over undenatured UC-II, NOW’s BioCell delivers a clinically validated formula with naturally occurring hyaluronic acid and chondroitin.

Each two-capsule serving provides 1,000 mg of BioCell Collagen II, a clinically studied hydrolyzed type II collagen matrix that naturally contains hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate. Unlike UC-II (which works via immune modulation at 40 mg), BioCell provides structural collagen building blocks at a higher dose. GMP certified and third-party tested.

• Pros:
• Clinically validated BioCell Collagen ingredient with built-in HA and chondroitin
• Good option for those who want type II collagen in hydrolyzed form
• 120-count bottle provides a 2-month supply at full dosage

• Cons:
• Requires 2 capsules per serving (vs. 1 for UC-II)
• Different mechanism than undenatured UC-II — not interchangeable

Best for: Those who want type II collagen with naturally occurring hyaluronic acid and chondroitin in hydrolyzed form

8. Jarrow Formulas Type II Collagen Complex (60 Capsules) — Best for Skin and Joints

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Jarrow’s Type II Collagen Complex delivers 1,000 mg of type II collagen from chicken sternum cartilage with naturally occurring mucopolysaccharides for dual skin and joint support.

Each two-capsule serving provides 1,000 mg of type II collagen complex derived from chicken sternum cartilage, naturally containing mucopolysaccharides including chondroitin sulfate. The formula supports both skin structure and joint cartilage health. Manufactured under cGMP standards. 30-day supply per bottle.

• Pros:
• Dual benefit for joint and skin health
• Naturally occurring chondroitin from whole cartilage
• Reputable brand with strong quality control

• Cons:
• Requires 2 capsules per serving
• Only 30-day supply per bottle

Best for: Those seeking type II collagen for both joint cartilage and skin support

How to Choose the Best UC-II Collagen Supplement

The most important factor when choosing a UC-II supplement is ensuring it contains the patented UC-II brand of undenatured type II collagen at the clinically studied dose of 40 mg per day. This specific form preserves the native triple-helix structure of collagen, which is essential for its unique immune-modulating mechanism. Generic “type II collagen” supplements that are hydrolyzed or denatured work through an entirely different pathway and should not be confused with true UC-II.

Look for supplements that clearly list 40 mg of UC-II standardized chicken cartilage on the label. Higher doses are not necessarily better — the clinical research consistently shows that 40 mg per day is the effective amount. Some advanced formulas pair UC-II with complementary ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin D3, or boron, which can provide additional joint and bone support.

UC-II should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally at bedtime, for optimal absorption. This timing allows the collagen to interact with immune cells in the gut without interference from other proteins in food. Capsules and softgels are the most common delivery forms, with softgels offering easier swallowing for some users.

Quality certifications matter — look for GMP certification, Non-GMO verification, and allergen transparency. Since UC-II is derived from chicken cartilage, it is not suitable for vegans or vegetarians, and those with poultry allergies should avoid it. Most reputable UC-II supplements are free from major allergens including gluten, soy, dairy, and eggs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is UC-II collagen and how does it work?

UC-II is a patented form of undenatured (native) type II collagen derived from chicken sternum cartilage. Unlike hydrolyzed collagen that provides structural building blocks, UC-II works through a process called oral tolerization — it interacts with immune cells in the gut to help prevent the body from attacking its own joint cartilage. This unique mechanism requires only 40 mg per day, far less than the grams needed for hydrolyzed collagen supplements.

How much UC-II collagen should I take daily?

The clinically studied dose is 40 mg of UC-II per day, taken as a single capsule. Multiple human clinical studies have shown that this amount supports joint comfort, flexibility, and mobility. Taking more than 40 mg has not been shown to provide additional benefits, so stick with the researched dose.

When is the best time to take UC-II collagen?

UC-II should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally at bedtime or at least 30 minutes before a meal. This timing is important because the undenatured collagen needs to reach the immune cells in the gut intact, without being broken down by digestive enzymes that are active during meals.

Are there any side effects of UC-II collagen?

UC-II is generally well-tolerated with minimal reported side effects. Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort when first starting supplementation. Since UC-II is derived from chicken cartilage, those with poultry allergies should avoid it. As with any supplement, consult a healthcare provider before starting, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.

Can I take UC-II collagen with glucosamine and chondroitin?

Yes, UC-II can be taken alongside glucosamine and chondroitin supplements. In fact, clinical studies have compared UC-II directly against glucosamine plus chondroitin combinations and found UC-II to be more effective for improving joint flexibility. The mechanisms are different and complementary — UC-II works via immune modulation while glucosamine and chondroitin provide structural joint support.

How long does it take for UC-II collagen to work?

Most clinical studies show measurable improvements in joint comfort and flexibility within 60 to 90 days of consistent daily supplementation. Some users report noticeable relief sooner, but the full benefits of UC-II’s immune-modulating mechanism develop over several weeks. Consistent daily use is essential for optimal results.