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Frequently asked questions
Short answers for NPD, R&D and procurement teams. If yours is missing, write to [email protected].
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What is Mermaid Proteins?
Mermaid Proteins is a brand of BlueLoop Protein ApS, a Danish company based in Copenhagen. We develop marine collagen from the skeleton of wild-caught North Atlantic cod for supplement and functional food brands.
What is your collagen made from?
From the skeleton of wild-caught Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua): backbones and frames left over after filleting. Our development material is caught in the Northwest Atlantic (FAO area 21), landed in Greenland and processed in Denmark.
How is it different from fish skin collagen?
Fish skin collagen is almost all Type I. The skeleton also contains Type II from cartilage, and bone minerals. Bone is harder to process, so few producers use it. See the full comparison.
Can you supply the bone mineral too?
Yes, as a development option. We purify the mineral dissolved from the bone, mostly calcium and phosphorus, as its own fraction. It can be supplied alongside the peptides as a collagen mineral blend from one source, or as a separate ingredient for your own formulation.
Does it contain Type II collagen?
The skeleton includes cartilage, which contains Type II. The Type II content of each batch will be confirmed by analysis. We are also developing a native (undenatured) Type II format. More on marine Type II.
When can we get samples?
Development samples for partners are planned for mid 2027. Request samples to get on the list.
Is it available in commercial volumes?
Not yet. We are in development, with lab-scale trials in Denmark in 2026 and pilot trials planned for mid 2027. Commercial scale follows once the pilot process is proven.
What is the regulatory status in the EU and UK?
Collagen and gelatin from fish are established food ingredients in the EU and UK. Before any commercial sale we are confirming with regulatory advisers how our bone-derived ingredient and process fit the rules, including novel food status. We share this assessment with partners.
Can we make health claims for collagen?
No health claim for collagen itself is authorised in the EU or Great Britain. Brands usually pair collagen with nutrients that carry authorised claims, such as vitamin C, which contributes to normal collagen formation for the normal function of cartilage. Each brand needs its own legal review.
Is it halal, kosher and pescatarian?
It is made from fish only, with no bovine or porcine material, so it fits pescatarian ranges. Halal and kosher certification is planned.
What about allergens?
The ingredient is made from fish, so EU and UK fish allergen labelling applies.
What does it taste and smell like?
Our target is a white powder with neutral taste and odour that dissolves clear in cold water. Cod is a lean fish, which helps. Samples will let you judge for yourself.
What are your prices and minimum order quantities?
We share indicative pricing and volumes with development partners. Get in touch.
Who is behind Mermaid Proteins?
Co-founders Bente van Vlijmen and Leopold von der Schulenburg. The company started at DTU Skylab in Denmark. About us.