DolCas Biotech has developed a chocolate bar infused with marine collagen tripeptides. Each 8-gram square contains 1 gram of Morikol, an ultra-low-molecular-weight fish collagen peptide validated for efficacy at a low dose.

The peptides are suitable for functional foods and can be applied to white, milk, or dark chocolate without affecting the comforting flavor, aroma, or texture of these popular confections.

Morikol is a type I and III fish collagen tripeptide formulated for high bioavailability and rapid absorption due to its exceptionally low molecular weight and structure. The peptides are sequenced with three amino acids: glycine, proline, and hydroxyproline. These “GPH” structures may stimulate collagen generation and support the synthesis of hyaluronic acid and ceramides, enzymes which are essential for skin barrier and cell membrane structure.

“Most collagen ingredients come in 5 g to 10 g doses,” said K. G. Rao, founder and CEO of DolCas Biotech. “Morikol‘s low concentration of the bioactive component makes it ideal for innovative delivery formats. One square of chocolate can now deliver a full clinical dose of collagen peptides, whether for beauty-from-within or joint comfort, and still satisfy the most discerning chocolate lover’s palate. Our ‘less is more’ collagen concept is transforming how people experience wellness by bringing a touch of sensory joy to the routine of supplementing with collagen.”

“This is the only fish collagen clinically studied to deliver measurable benefits for skin health at a daily 1-gram dose, or for joint mobility at a 2-gram daily dose,” said Rao.

One clinical study involving 53 women found that taking a gram of Morikol daily over a period of 12 weeks resulted in improvements in skin elasticity and dermal hydration, with visible skin benefits and greater protection from measures of sun-induced aging. The group taking Morikol showed a 10.5-fold greater improvement in wrinkle visual scores compared to the placebo group at 12 weeks.

In another study, researchers found that taking 2 grams of Morikol reduced fluid buildup around the joints and mitigated cracking and pain after 10 weeks.

Preclinical studies suggest that Morikol can be directly absorbed across the intestinal barrier and into the bloodstream intact through PEPT1 transporters, because of its unique hydrolyzed enzyme formulation. These tripeptides have been shown to increase mRNA expression related to collagen production in a cell study.

“Morikol’s piscine tripeptides are designed to reach vulnerable and damaged sites of the skin, bone, and tendons where it activates osteoblasts and fibroblasts, in turn helping promote collagen synthesis, boosting bone and connective tissue integrity as well as keeping joints lubricated,” said Rao. “Morikol is a non-GMO, sustainable, allergen-friendly, and is completely free of any fishy aroma or flavor, making it a perfect candidate for expansion into functional foods.”