Joint/Skin
Shark Cartilage
Also known as: Cartilage Powder, Shark Cartilage Powder, Bovine Cartilage
Shark cartilage is a source of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and collagen promoted for joint and connective tissue support, though clinical evidence for efficacy remains limited and inconsistent.
Last reviewed June 2026 · Evidence graded from peer-reviewed research, not editorial opinion. Educational only — not medical advice.
Every Shark Cartilage product we have scored
| # | Product | Score | Per serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NOW Foods Shark Cartilage | 85 A- | $0.63 |
| 2 | Pure Encapsulations Joint Complex (single dose) | 81 A- | $2.03 |
| 3 | Kirkland Signature Triple Action Joint Health, 110 Coated Tablets | 79 B+ | $0.26 |
| 4 | Doctor's Best Glucosamine Chondroitin, MSM + UCII, 90 Veggie Capsule | 72 B | $0.77 |
| 5 | Healthy Origins UC-II | 72 B | $0.33 |
| 6 | Codeage Supreme Joint Health | 69 B | $1.67 |
| 7 | Life Extension ArthroMax Advanced NT2 Collagen & ApresFlex | 65 B- | $0.85 |
Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing. Per-serving cost is list price divided by servings per container. No brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Common questions
How much Shark Cartilage should I take?
The typical range is 750–1,500 mg daily. Benefits typically assessed after 4–8 weeks of consistent use
When should I take Shark Cartilage?
Any time of day; consistency recommended. May be taken with or without food.
Which form of Shark Cartilage is best?
Powder. Other forms in the catalog: Capsule, Tablet.
Is Shark Cartilage safe?
Commonly reported: Generally well tolerated, Rare: mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea.
Which Shark Cartilage supplement scores highest?
NOW Foods Shark Cartilage, at 85/100. Scored on dose accuracy, form, label transparency and third-party testing — no brand pays to be listed or ranked.
Primary uses
- Joint health support
- Cartilage integrity
- Connective tissue support
How it works
- Provides glycosaminoglycans (chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate) and collagen peptides
- Potential anti-inflammatory effects
- May support extracellular matrix synthesis
Dosage
- Typical range
- 750–1,500 mg daily
- Timing
- Any time of day; consistency recommended
- With food
- May be taken with or without food
- Duration
- Benefits typically assessed after 4–8 weeks of consistent use
- Special populations
- Pregnant/nursing women should consult a healthcare provider; individuals with shellfish allergies should exercise caution
Forms
- Powder· 70/100
- Capsule· 70/100
- Tablet· 70/100
Safety
Common side effects
- Generally well tolerated
- Rare: mild gastrointestinal upset, nausea
Contraindications
- Shellfish allergy (cross-reactivity possible)
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy (theoretical concern)
Products containing Shark Cartilage
Top-scoring supplements in our catalog that list Shark Cartilage on the label. Each product is graded on Formulate's ingredient-level rubric — dose accuracy, form, transparency, and third-party testing.
Evidence notes
Limited clinical trials with mixed results; most evidence is preliminary or from animal/in vitro studies. Lacks the robust RCT support of established joint ingredients like glucosamine or collagen peptides.
Grade C: Mostly observational or small trials; mechanism is plausible but unproven at scale.
Related in Joint/Skin
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Medical disclaimer. This page is educational and does not replace advice from a qualified healthcare provider. Individual needs and risks vary — consult a professional before starting, stopping, or combining supplements, especially if you are pregnant or nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.