Encapsulation, used in both medications and dietary supplements, is one of the most common processes used by pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies worldwide. Two of the most popular types of empty capsules used by both industries are gelatin and HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), also known as “vegetarian capsules.”Today the global demand for empty capsules is skyrocketing. According to the Empty Capsule Market Forecast by Gelatin-Based and Vegetarian-Based Capsules from 2024 to 2034, the world market, which will be approximately $2,956.6 in 2024, is expected to grow to about $6,378.6 million by 2034. This represents a compound annual growth rate of about 8.0%.
Beyond the impressive growth and current value of empty capsules in the human health and welfare industry, it is very important to understand the differences between these types. Let’s take a look at each of these capsule types…
What are Gelatin capsules?
Gelatin capsules are composed of gelatin manufactured from collagen derived from pork or bovine sources. Bovine hide is considered to be one of the best choices, as it enables the capsules to be Kosher and Halal certified, meeting the religious and dietary needs of a broader range of consumers.
Gelatin capsules are commonly used in the global market, known for:
- Being the most common type of capsule used in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Offering flexibility for a wide range of formulations and applications.
- Ability to include custom flavors to mask unpleasant smell and taste of the encapsulated drug.
- Recognized by most of the world's regulatory authorities as “Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS)” for human consumption.
- Do not contain GMOs, are completely natural, and are allergen free.
- Cost-efficiency with production cost about 30% lower than other alternatives.
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What are Vegetarian HPMC Capsules and why are they popular?
HPMC Capsules or Vegetarian Capsules, made from plant-based hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, offer an alternative to animal-derived capsules. Hypromellose Capsules have gained popularity due to their natural origin and superior stability, particularly in markets demanding vegan or vegetarian options.
Their most notable characteristics are:
- Provide health-conscious consumers with a natural, 100% vegetable-derived alternative to animal-derived capsules.
- Ideal for individuals with religion-based dietary restrictions.
- Offer the ability to address today's API challenges as well as the requirement for rapid product development.
- Can withstand high temperature and humidity conditions, protecting their content from all kinds of fluctuations; this makes them ideal for hygroscopic formulations.
The key HPMC consumption markets are located in developed countries with a market share above 52%, with North America and Europe having the biggest percentage in the market.
Which is better: Gelatin or HPMC Capsules?
Choosing between gelatin or vegetable capsules depends on several factors, including the material to encapsulate, costs, and target audience. Both types of capsules come in various sizes, colors, and designs and can be customized to fit any demand.
Both gelatin and HPMC capsules are durable if certain conditions are met. The shelf life for gelatin capsules is five years if the capsules are kept at the recommended storage temperature of 59°-77°Fahrenheit / 15°-25°Celsius, with a relative humidity between 35 and 65%. HPMC capsules also have a five-year shelf life, although they can tolerate greater heat and humidity. Here the recommended conditions are more forgiving: storage temperature of 59°-86°Fahrenheit / 15°-30°Celsius with a relative humidity between 35 and 70%.
Over the years, gelatin capsules have been the preferred choice of hundreds of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries and are forecasted to remain relatively popular. However, as more consumers seek “natural” and vegan products, vegetable-based capsules have begun to penetrate leading markets in Western Europe, Canada and the United States.
Both G-CAPS® gelatin capsules and K-CAPS® vegetarian HPMC capsules have their advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between them largely depends on the target market, product type, and cost considerations.
Gelatin Capsules:
- Made from collagen, typically derived from bovine or porcine sources.
- Have a lower production cost - about 30% less than HPMC.
- Offer excellent flexibility in terms of formulation and customization, including the ability to add flavors to mask unpleasant tastes.
- Widely recognized by regulatory authorities as safe (GRAS status) and non-GMO.
HPMC Capsules:
- Made from plant-based hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, offering a vegan and natural alternative.
- Excellent for hygroscopic formulations, as they withstand high humidity and temperature better than gelatin capsules.
- NonGMO, Kosher and Halal certified, appealing to a wider range of consumers.
- Ideal for health-conscious or vegan markets.
From a chemical perspective, gelatin capsules dissolve in acidic environments (like the stomach), making them suitable for immediate release formulations. HPMC capsules, however, exhibit more resistance to gastric acids, which enhances their suitability for delayed-release applications. Next-generation HPMC polymers offer enhanced compatibility with APIs, expanding the versatility of these capsules.
Frecuentky Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the benefits of hypromellose vegan capsules?
Hypromellose vegan capsules offer a plant-based alternative for individuals with dietary or ethical concerns. They are free from allergens, preservatives, and GMOs. Additionally, their stability in varying environmental conditions, such as high humidity or heat, makes them a reliable choice for products that require extended shelf life.
Are HPMC capsules as effective as gelatin capsules?
Yes, HPMC capsules are as effective as gelatin capsules in terms of performance and stability. In fact, they offer better protection against moisture and are more suited for hygroscopic products. K-CAPS® HPMC capsules provide a natural, durable, and customizable option that meets Kosher, Halal, and vegan certifications, making them a versatile choice across different markets.
At the end of the day, when it comes to choosing one or the other, the final decision depends on the needs of each company. Fortunately, the market has evolved and is ready to satisfy industry and consumer needs with hundreds of products endorsed worldwide and a portfolio that is more robust than ever.
