How to make 'Anti-Ageing' Collagen powder at home

Making collagen powder at home involves a process of extracting collagen from natural sources like animal bones, skin, or fish scales. Collagen is a protein that provides structure to various parts of the body, including skin, bones, tendons, and ligaments. Creating collagen powder at home allows you to have a natural and cost-effective source of this essential protein. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make collagen powder easily at home:

Ingredients and Materials:

Source of Collagen:

Chicken or meat bones, fish scales, or skin (about 2-3 pounds)
If using bones, you can use leftovers from a roast or select bones with connective tissues

Vinegar:

2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or any other vinegar

Water:

Enough to cover the bones or collagen source

Cooking Equipment:

Large pot
Slow cooker (optional)
Strainer or Cheesecloth:

To strain the liquid

Container:

Airtight container for storing the collagen powder

Steps:
1. Prepare the Collagen Source:

If using bones, roast them in the oven for about 30 minutes at 350°F (180°C). This helps enhance the flavor of the collagen.
If using fish scales or skin, ensure they are clean and free of scales.

2. Combine Ingredients:

Place the collagen source in a large stockpot or slow cooker.
Add enough water to cover the bones or collagen source.
Pour in 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Vinegar helps extract minerals from the bones.

3. Simmer:

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Allow it to simmer for at least 4-6 hours. Longer simmering times can extract more collagen.

4. Skim the Surface:

While simmering, periodically skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

5. Strain:

Once the broth has simmered and is rich in collagen, strain the liquid to remove the bones or collagen source.
Use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to ensure a clear liquid.

6. Cool and Refrigerate:

Let the liquid cool to room temperature.
Refrigerate the liquid overnight. As it cools, it will turn into a gelatinous consistency.

7. Remove Fat:

The next day, remove any solidified fat that has risen to the top.

8. Dehydrate or Air Dry:

Pour the collagen-rich liquid onto a dehydrator tray or a baking sheet if using an oven.
Dehydrate at a low temperature (around 140°F or 60°C) until it forms a dry, brittle sheet.

9. Grind into Powder:

Once dehydrated, break the collagen sheet into smaller pieces.
Grind the pieces into a fine powder using a blender or coffee grinder.

10. Store:

Store your homemade collagen powder in an airtight container away from moisture and at a dry place. Try and out and let us know how it worked for you in the comment section below.