Disclosed herein are methods for efficiently isolating collagen form a collagen source. The methods are inexpensive and do not require the use of proteolytic enzymes, decolorizing agents, antibacterial and antifungal agents, and the like. Further, the collagen produced by the methods described herein is substantially free of odor and discoloration. Still further, the collagen produced by the methods described herein is suitable to be used in cosmetics, food products, and pharmaceuticals or nutritional supplements.