Molecular biologist Dr Vanessa Craig on the key to long-term health

Dr Craig, you previously conducted research in molecular biology and epigenetics, but now you are involved in longevity and nutrition. How did this transition come about?

VC: My research began with a doctoral thesis on chronic inflammation in cancer. It became clear to me that inflammation is a major driver of not only cancer, but also of most chronic diseases – which remain the leading cause of death in the Western world. Initially, I wanted to develop new therapies. However, the deeper I researched, the clearer it became to me that a large proportion of these diseases can be influenced by diet and lifestyle. That was a turning point. Therapies are important, but the most powerful lever for health lies in everyday prevention. That’s why, after my time in epigenetics, I turned my attention to nutrition – and today I combine both: molecular biology and practical longevity strategies.

In 2016, you founded Formettā – with a focus on collagen. What is it about this that fascinates you?

VC: Collagen is the structural protein in our body. It accounts for around 30 per cent of all proteins and supports bones, cartilage, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even dentine. It also ensures the skin’s elasticity and resilience. Without collagen, we lack stability and resilience. I am fascinated by the fact that we can support the body’s self-healing powers with a targeted diet. Ten years of research and numerous clinical studies have convinced me that bioactive collagen peptides really work. They have been proven to improve skin, bones, and joints. But when I realised that many products on the market had little scientific basis, I founded Formettā. Initially just for myself, then for everyone who values honest, evidence-based formulations.

How exactly does collagen work?

VC: Collagen peptides do more than simply act as ​‘building blocks’. They are bioactive signalling molecules: after ingestion, they enter the bloodstream via the intestine and bind themselves to target cells such as fibroblasts. There, they activate processes that stimulate the production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. This makes the skin more resilient, the joints more flexible, and the bones more stable. Crucially, this effect has been proven in clinical studies.

What role does collagen play in prevention and longevity?

VC: A very big one. Collagen is the foundation of many tissues – from connective tissue to bones and skin. With age, production decreases while degradation accelerates. The consequences: wrinkles, joint pain, slower regeneration. Clinically tested peptides can slow down this process, increase skin elasticity and support the joints. In short, the more healthy collagen we have, the more resilient we are as we age.

Why does collagen production decrease with age?

VC: On the one hand, the body produces less, and on the other hand, degradation increases due to enzymes, oxidative stress, or UV rays. This is a double-edged effect: less build-up, more breakdown – this weakens the fibres and makes them brittle.

How can you recognise a collagen deficiency?

VC: The signs are varied: wrinkles and decreasing skin elasticity, brittle hair and nails, joint pain, reduced mobility, lower bone density, and even slower wound healing or digestive problems.

And how can you counteract a deficiency?

VC: Our body needs support so that it not only produces collagen, but also maintains it. There is no miracle cure – the combination of several factors is crucial:

• Bioactive peptides: Clinically tested collagen peptides form the basis.
• Nutrient-rich diet: Lots of vegetables, high-quality proteins, healthy fats – and as little sugar as possible, because sugar accelerates breakdown.
• Lifestyle factors: exercise, sleep, hydration, sun protection – plus no smoking and no excessive alcohol consumption.
• Reduce inflammation: chronic inflammation is the biggest collagen killer. An anti-inflammatory diet, including berries, olive oil or omega‑3 fatty acids, provides lasting protection for the structures.

Dietary supplements or cosmetics – which work better?

VC: Collagen in creams only works on the surface. Oral intake, on the other hand, has undergone much more thorough scientific researched and has been shown to have effects throughout the body. It is important that products contain clinically tested peptides in effective doses.

What distinguishes Formettā from other brands?

VC: We combine clinically tested peptides with co-factors such as vitamin C, MSM, CoQ10, grape seed extract, minerals, and electrolytes. This creates synergies: the body produces more collagen – and breaks it down more slowly at the same time. We also avoid sugar and artificial additives and adhere to Swiss production standards.

What formulations do you offer?

VC: We work with three patented Bioactive Collagen Peptides. The Superior formula also contains electrolytes, vitamins, MSM, and grape seed extract. The Essential formula combines the peptides with pearl powder – a traditional raw material that has been valued for centuries for its collagen-promoting properties. Both variants are also available in natural flavours such as citrus, grape, and vanilla.

And aside from collagen, what else can we do to age healthily?

VC: Longevity is holistic. Exercise, a Mediterranean diet, good sleep, stable social contacts, and stress management are the most effective factors. Equally important: avoid highly processed foods and excessive sugar. And: extremes don’t help. Neither excessive exercise nor strict diets lead to improved health. The most effective approach is consistent, balanced routines that are lived out and experienced with joy, satisfaction, and flexibility.

Thank you for the interview!

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