CapsCanada’s capsules, including K-CAPS® (HPMC-based) and G-CAPS® (gelatin-based), are crafted to meet the highest quality standards in the supplement and pharmaceutical industries. These standards ensure that capsules maintain their integrity and stability throughout the entire supply chain—from filling and packaging to long-term storage and transportation. This guide details best practices to maintain capsule quality, illustrating how improper handling can impact capsule performance in production, as well as the end- customer experience. By following these guidelines, manufacturers can protect the shelf life and performance of their products.
1. Packaging: The First Line of Defense for Capsule Stability
CapsCanada is intentional in our design of packaging materials. Our cartons are robust enough to withstand worldwide distribution, while also minimizing environmental impact. When combined with proper shipping and storage conditions, our packaging will help maintain moisture levels specific to each capsule type and shield against potential contaminants.
- HPMC Capsules (K-CAPS®): These plant-based capsules are packed in anti-static, food-grade plastic bags within tamper-evident, sealed cardboard cartons. This helps maintain an optimal moisture content of 3% to 8%, protecting the capsules from environmental factors like light and physical contamination. Each carton is labeled with essential information, including batch number, capsule size, color, and recommended storage conditions to ensure easy handling and compliance.
- Gelatin Capsules (G-CAPS®) : Gelatin capsules, which require a higher moisture content of 13% to 16% for stability, are also packed in food-grade plastic bags within sealed cardboard cartons, providing reliable protection against external moisture and contamination.
Packaging Tips
To preserve capsule freshness after opening, use resealable or other protective closures such as zip-ties, and ensure cartons remain tightly sealed when not in use. This simple step helps maintain moisture control, especially in fluctuating environments.
2. Proper Storage: Ensuring Stability Throughout the Supply Chain
Careful storage is crucial to prevent capsules from becoming brittle, sticky, or otherwise compromised in shape and functionality. CapsCanada’s packaging serves as a primary safeguard, but environmental conditions must also be closely controlled.
- Storage Conditions for K-CAPS®: HPMC capsules should be stored at temperatures between 15° and 30°C (59° to 86°F) with a relative humidity of 35% to 70%. These conditions allow the capsules to retain their structural integrity without becoming brittle, providing an ideal solution for climates with moderate humidity.
- Storage Conditions for G-CAPS®: Gelatin capsules require a more controlled temperature range of 15° to 25°C (59° to 77°F) and a relative humidity of 35% to 65% to prevent the gelatin from gaining or losing excessive moisture, which could affect stability and filling machine performance.
Storage Best Practices:
- Always store capsules on raised pallets to prevent moisture absorption from the floor.
- Keep capsules away from direct heat sources (like radiators or high-power lights) and avoid direct sunlight, as these factors can affect capsule quality.
- Ensure that storage areas are well-ventilated and avoid placing capsules on high shelves, where heat tends to accumulate.
3. Controlled Transportation: Maintaining Stability During Transit
CapsCanada works with specialized carriers who provide temperature-controlled transportation to ensure that capsules retain their integrity during transit. Regular spot-checking of conditions during shipping ensures capsules are not exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations that could compromise quality.
- Temperature Monitoring: CapsCanada uses temperature monitoring devices during transport to ensure conditions meet established requirements throughout the journey. Spot checks help verify adherence to storage conditions, adding an extra layer of quality assurance.
- Route Optimization and Swift Delivery: Avoiding routes through extreme climates and minimizing delays reduces capsule exposure to potentially harmful environmental changes.
4. Best Practices for the Filling and Packaging Processes
The filling and packaging stages are especially sensitive for capsules, requiring appropriate conditions to prevent alterations in capsule structure. Even slight environmental fluctuations can impact product quality and usability.
- Humidity Control in the Filling Room: In colder climates, heating systems often dry out the air, which can increase the risk of capsules becoming brittle. The use of industrial humidifiers helps maintain ideal humidity levels, particularly for gelatin capsules.
- Resealable Closures: For cartons that are frequently opened in the encapsulation area, using resealable closures is recommended to protect capsules during intervals between uses.
- Heat Exposure During Packaging: During the packaging process, avoid prolonged exposure to heat sources, such as blister machines or heat tunnels. This is especially crucial for gelatin capsules, which are more sensitive to high temperatures.
5. Common Quality Issues Due to Improper Handling
If handling conditions are not met, capsules may suffer issues that directly affect the quality of the final product:
- Brittleness: Low humidity can make gelatin capsules brittle. Although HPMC capsules are more resistant to drying, they can still degrade under extremely dry conditions.
- Static and Adhesion: Low humidity increases the risk of static buildup, causing poor flow and complicating handling during the filling process.
- Deformation and Dimensional Changes: Gelatin capsules exposed to high humidity levels may contract, compromising capsule fit and increasing the risk of leaks.
- Stickiness: High temperatures or high humidity can make capsules sticky, complicating handling and separation during filling and packaging.
Conclusion: CapsCanada’s Commitment to Capsule Quality and Stability
Effective packaging, storage, and transportation practices are essential to ensuring that CapsCanada capsules meet the rigorous quality standards required in the supplement and pharmaceutical industries. Following these steps helps manufacturers safeguard the stability and lifespan of the capsules, ensuring their efficacy and quality at every stage.
For facilities requiring assistance in optimizing handling practices, CapsCanada’s Technical Services team offers personalized guidance and expertise to help you implement these best practices. This commitment to quality and support underscores CapsCanada’s dedication to delivering reliable, premium capsules for global clients. Contact an expert to discover more of CapsCanada’s services.