Type II collagen is the main protein of articular cartilage. Its undenatured form preserves the three-dimensional structure of the peptide chains, allowing targeted oral action. Now Foods, a leading American manufacturer since 1968, uses the standardised Lonza UC-II raw material, recognised for its bioavailability.

The 120-capsule format suits people on an extended course or regular users. At one capsule a day, the 120-box covers a full four months, versus just two months for the 60-capsule format, with notably better value per capsule. This size particularly suits long-term courses recommended for joints affected by age, intensive sport or physical work — clinical studies on UC-II suggest benefits strengthen with duration of use, especially beyond three consecutive months.

UC-II is a registered trademark of the Lonza laboratory, referring to type II collagen extracted from chicken cartilage and kept in its native form. Unlike classic hydrolysed collagen peptides, UC-II has not undergone enzymatic or heat treatment that would destroy its structure. This molecular integrity enables a different mode of action, based on the oral tolerance mechanism: ingested UC-II is not digested like a simple dietary protein — it interacts with intestinal lymphoid tissue and modulates the joint immune response. This approach has been studied for more than twenty years in international scientific literature and has been the subject of several randomised clinical trials.

Hydrolysed collagen powder, as used for skin and joints, comes from extensive enzymatic hydrolysis that breaks collagen down into small bioactive peptides. It mainly works as a source of amino acids for connective tissue and requires high doses, typically 5 to 10 grams per day. Undenatured UC-II works through a completely different mechanism: it doesn’t directly feed the cartilage but modulates the joint immune response at very low doses (40 mg). The two approaches can be combined for a comprehensive strategy, with UC-II particularly suited to people wanting a targeted action without ingesting large amounts of powder.

The recommended dose is one capsule per day, ideally taken in the evening at bedtime, on an empty stomach or with a large glass of water. Taking it on an empty stomach is recommended as it favours optimal absorption of undenatured collagen through the small intestine’s Peyer’s patches. Avoid taking UC-II alongside a protein-rich meal. First effects on joint comfort generally appear after four to six weeks of regular use; for best results, follow a course of at least three consecutive months.

Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or children under twelve. People with a chicken protein allergy should avoid this product, as the collagen is extracted from chicken sternum cartilage. If undergoing immunosuppressant treatment or living with an autoimmune condition, seek medical advice before starting a course. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose of one capsule.

What’s the difference between the 60 and 120 capsule UC-II boxes?

The composition and dosage are strictly identical between the two formats: 40 mg of Lonza undenatured UC-II Type 2 Collagen per capsule. Only the packaging size changes, and the 120-capsule format offers better value, covering a full four-month course without interruption.

Is UC-II useful for joint comfort?

Several randomised clinical trials have evaluated UC-II in people with joint discomfort linked to osteoarthritis, with results suggesting improved comfort and mobility after eight to twelve weeks of daily use. UC-II is a food supplement, not a medicine — it does not replace medical treatment, and effectiveness varies between individuals.

Can UC-II be combined with other joint supplements?

Yes, UC-II combines well with glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM or turmeric. It can also be paired with hydrolysed collagen for a comprehensive approach — leave about an hour between the two to optimise UC-II absorption.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.