The present invention relates to a collagen hydrolysate which is produced by enzymatic hydrolysis of type-B bone gelatin, wherein the collagen hydrolysate is formed from peptides of which at least 50% by weight, in particular at least 70% by weight have a molecular weight of 1,500 Da to 3,500 Da, and which have a mean molecular weight in the range from 4,000 Da to 8,000 Da, in particular in the range from 4,500 Da to 6,000 Da. The invention also relates to the use of this collagen hydrolysate as an active ingredient to maintain and/or improve the health of the bones, in particular to prevent and/or treat osteoporosis. The invention further relates to a nutritional supplement which comprises the collagen hydrolysate.
