Differences between pullulan and gelatin capsules | Capscanada

Choosing the perfect capsule for your supplements or pharmaceuticals can significantly influence the success of your product. Popular options include pullulan capsules and gelatin capsules, each offering unique features to suit specific applications, consumer demands, and budget limitations. But which one fits your needs? In this article, we'll break down the key considerations to help you make an informed decision and stay ahead in a competitive market.

What Are Gelatin Capsules?

Gelatin capsules are the most traditional and widely used option in the pharmaceutical and supplement industries. They are derived from collagen, a protein extracted from animal by-products such as bovine or porcine skin, bones, and connective tissue. Hard gelatin capsules are primarily used for powders and other solid formulations, offering versatility and reliability in encapsulation.

Considerations for Gelatin Capsules:

• Animal-Derived: Gelatin capsules are not suitable for consumers who follow vegetarian or vegan diets. While bovine gelatin capsules can meet specific religious dietary requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, not all manufacturers offer capsules with these certifications, so it is essential to verify this when selecting a supplier.
• Moisture Sensitivity: These capsules are sensitive to humidity and may become brittle in extremely dry environments or lose their shape in overly humid conditions.
• Proven Performance: Gelatin capsules stand out as a trusted, time-tested solution. Their versatility and cost-effectiveness make them a reliable choice for manufacturers catering to a wide range of consumer needs.
  
  

What Are Pullulan Capsules?

A pullulan capsule is made from pullulan, a natural polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of starch by the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans. Pullulan capsules are biodegradable and plant-based, making them an appealing choice for consumers seeking alternatives to animal-derived products.

Important Note: While pullulan is inherently plant-based, not all pullulan capsules or their colorants are certified vegan or organic. Manufacturers and consumers should verify this information when considering a supplier of pullulan capsules.

Pullulan capsules are primarily used for dry formulations, such as powders or granules, and are known for their high transparency and ability to protect oxygen-sensitive ingredients.

Considerations for Pullulan Capsules:

• Higher Cost: The production process for pullulan capsules is more complex and expensive than that of gelatin capsules.
• Limited Compatibility: Pullulan capsules may not be ideal for liquid or oil-based formulations.
• Market Availability: Pullulan capsules may not be as widely available as gelatin capsules, posing potential supply chain challenges.
• Vegan and Organic Claims May Vary: Not all pullulan capsules are guaranteed to meet vegan, organic, or vegetarian standards, as this depends on the manufacturing process and additives used.
  
  

Pullulan vs. Gelatin Capsules: Key Differences

Which Capsule Should You Choose?

The decision between pullulan capsules and gelatin capsules ultimately depends on your priorities as a manufacturer or brand. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. 1. Budget:
   If cost-efficiency is your primary concern, gelatin capsules are the clear choice. They offer excellent functionality at a fraction of the cost of pullulan capsules, making them ideal for high-volume production.
2.  
3. 2. Target Audience:
   For vegan, vegetarian, or allergen-sensitive consumers, pullulan capsules may be suitable, but ensure certifications are verified. 
4.  
5. 3. Product Type and Ingredients:
   Gelatin capsules offer greater versatility for a wide range of formulations. Pullulan capsules are better for oxygen-sensitive ingredients but lack the same flexibility.
6.  
7. 4. Market Trends:
   While pullulan capsules align with clean-label and plant-based trends, gelatin capsules continue to dominate the market due to their affordability and proven performance. Brands should evaluate whether these features justify the higher cost of Pullulan capsules for their specific market.

Why Choose CapsCanada’s Gelatin Capsules?

We specialize in producing high-quality gelatin capsules that meet the needs of both manufacturers and consumers. We understand the importance of delivering capsules that are cost-effective, versatile, and reliable.

What Are G-CAPS® Made Of?

G-CAPS® are manufactured using bovine hide gelatin, a superior-grade gelatin sourced exclusively from cows. This material is carefully selected and processed to ensure:

• Purity: Free of contaminants and impurities, making them ideal for even the most sensitive formulations.
• Safety and Quality: Complies with strict international regulatory standards, ensuring consistent quality and safety.
• Consistency: Gelatin from bovine hide provides excellent uniformity in capsule structure, ensuring optimal performance during filling and consumption.

Our bovine hide gelatin, G-CAPS® provides: 

• Excellent Machinability Strength: Ensures capsules maintain their integrity during filling, handling, and transportation.
• A Clean, Safe Formulation: G-CAPS® is free of harmful additives or unnecessary fillers, offering a clean-label solution for your products.
  
  

Key Advantages of CapsCanada Gelatin Capsules:

• Customizable: Available in a wide variety of colors, sizes, and finishes to match your brand’s aesthetic and product requirements.
• Reliable Supply Chain: Our global presence ensures consistent delivery and support for your production needs.
• Proven Performance: Trusted by the industry for their compatibility with a wide range of formulations and consistent quality.

• Kosher and Halal Certified CapsCanada G-CAPS are both Kosher and Halal Certified. 

If plant-based capsules are what you’re looking for, CapsCanada also offers K-CAPS®, a high-quality alternative suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and clean-label formulations.

Conclusion

Although pullulan capsules may suit specific niche markets, their high cost, limited compatibility, and supply challenges make them impractical for most manufacturers. Gelatin capsules, on the other hand, offer a time-tested, cost-effective, and highly versatile solution that meets the demands of a dynamic market.

If you're looking for a dependable and affordable encapsulation solution, G-CAPS® delivers unmatched quality and performance.  Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your product development.