Talking Health with Tracey Halama

A Q&A with Vital Proteins’ CEO about the company and why we should all be taking collagen.

BY LISA A. BEACH

tracey halama


Talking Health with Tracey Halama

A Q&A with Vital Proteins’ CEO about the company and why we should all be taking collagen.

BY LISA A. BEACH

 

We sat down with Vital Proteins CEO, Tracey Halama—the woman behind the evolution and popularity of collagen—to talk about what makes their products different, their new spokesperson (hello, Friend!) and what’s next for the brand.


 

Q: Can you talk more about Vital Protein’s commitment to using quality ingredients, clean labels and transparent sourcing? 

A: When Vital Proteins revolutionized the collagen category back in 2013, it looked very different. There were just a few other brands in the space at the time. However, over the years, the interest in collagen has erupted, and more and more brands have come in and tried to capitalize on that movement. Despite the increased competition, Vital has remained the number-one collagen brand, and I believe it's because of our unique commitment to transparency, quality and clean labels. Consumers know that by purchasing Vital Proteins, they're buying premium products made with high-quality ingredients that are manufactured in a way they can trust.  

whole foods


whole foods

Q: Can you talk more about Vital Protein’s commitment to using quality ingredients, clean labels and transparent sourcing? 

A: When Vital Proteins revolutionized the collagen category back in 2013, it looked very different. There were just a few other brands in the space at the time. However, over the years, the interest in collagen has erupted, and more and more brands have come in and tried to capitalize on that movement. Despite the increased competition, Vital has remained the number-one collagen brand, and I believe it's because of our unique commitment to transparency, quality and clean labels. Consumers know that by purchasing Vital Proteins, they're buying premium products made with high-quality ingredients that are manufactured in a way they can trust. 

 

farmer

 
 

Q: Why is it so important that Vital Proteins works with animal welfare groups?

A: At Vital, we take animal welfare incredibly seriously. When sourcing our upcycled collagen peptides, we vet our suppliers and only work with those who meet our strict quality and ethical standards. And we feel, as the leader in collagen supplementation, it's our obligation—and honor—to constantly raise the bar by demanding the best from every level of the supply chain.

Q: Why did Vital Proteins decide to bring Jennifer Aniston on board as Chief Creative Officer?

A: Jen was an organic fan of the brand since 2015. In fact, the first time we had heard about it was when both People magazine and mind + body green interviewed her and she spoke of her secret anti-aging ingredient, a collagen peptide, that makes her skin glow. It's rare for a CPG company to have such an authentic relationship with a celebrity for so many years. As we began to form a relationship with Jen, we both realized our mutual views on wellness and aging were very aligned. Personally, I am not sure of any other celebrity creative influence that feels as natural as Jen + Vital.  

 

collagen

Q: What Vital Proteins products do you recommend for people just starting to add collagen supplements to their daily wellness routine?

A: I always say, start with Collagen Peptides. It is our number-one seller and widely available. Universally simple and unflavored, it can be incorporated into coffee, tea, water, smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, simply anything! I have also found that our Collagen Gummies work for nearly everyone from my teenage daughters to my parents in their 70s.

Q: What about men and women in their 50s, 60s and beyond—is it too late for collagen supplements to make a difference?

A: It's never too late! Collagen is a protein, inclusive of critical amino acid building blocks for health. Most health care practitioners will advise middle-age and older adults to increase their protein intake to prevent muscle and bone density loss. The additional support for hair, skin, nails, joints and ligaments** also is really critical. I just turned 50 this year and I can speak to my peer group: collagen has been a game-changer for so many men and women alike.

collagen

Q: What Vital Proteins products do you recommend for people just starting to add collagen supplements to their daily wellness routine?

A: I always say, start with Collagen Peptides. It is our number-one seller and widely available. Universally simple and unflavored, it can be incorporated into coffee, tea, water, smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, simply anything! I have also found that our Collagen Gummies work for nearly everyone from my teenage daughters to my parents in their 70s.

Q: What about men and women in their 50s, 60s and beyond—is it too late for collagen supplements to make a difference?

A: It's never too late! Collagen is a protein, inclusive of critical amino acid building blocks for health. Most health care practitioners will advise middle-age and older adults to increase their protein intake to prevent muscle and bone density loss. The additional support for hair, skin, nails, joints and ligaments** also is really critical. I just turned 50 this year and I can speak to my peer group: collagen has been a game-changer for so many men and women alike.

 



TRY:
Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides Unflavored


 
 

Q: What wellness/beauty advice can you give to others who want to “shine from within” at any age?

A: Sleep, hydration and mental wellness are every bit as important as what nutrients you choose to put into your body.

Q: What’s on the horizon for the Vital Proteins brand?

A: Our brand has been fortunate to be first to market in collagen and currently Vital is the market share leader. We’ve been able to stay on top by innovating, maintaining authentic dialog with buyers and consumers, and listening and acting on their feedback. Expect more innovation, improved diversity and inclusion, increased commitment to sustainability, and lastly, exciting new programming with Jen and other key influencers.

Q: What’s your personal collagen regimen? 

A: My morning routine starts with a half caf coffee with coconut or vanilla creamer. I also am a huge fan of our Apple Cider Vinegar and Women's Multi Gummies and incorporate both of them into my supplement protocol. My favorite breakfast is Siggi’s plain yogurt with a scoop of Vital Performance Cold Brew Performance Protein and Collagen Peptides with berries, chia seeds and almond slivers. Occasionally, if I’m having a midday slump, I'll make a matcha latte for a healthy dose of antioxidants and energy**. If I really need a good night’s sleep, I will add Collagen Peptides into a cup of tea before bed. The glycine promotes relaxation**.  

 
 



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