Gelatin is the top choice for hard capsule manufacturing (used in pharmaceuticals, supplements, and herbs) thanks to its unique performance. For brands, manufacturers, and consumers, knowing its value is critical—here’s the essential breakdown:
Gelatin outperforms alternatives for hard capsules for three core reasons:
· Fast, reliable molding: Dissolves in warm water, sets quickly into elastic shells at room temp, ensuring consistent capsule shapes.
· Protects ingredients: Acts as a barrier against moisture, oxygen, and light, preventing content degradation and preserving potency.
· User-friendly: Lightweight, easy to swallow, and clear (lets users check contents), building trust.
Gelatin for hard capsules comes from healthy animal connective tissues (pig/cowhide). To ensure safety:
· Only tissues from certified farm animals (traceable health records) are used—no diseased or contaminated sources.
· Raw materials go through cleaning, degreasing, and disinfection to remove contaminants.
High-quality gelatin meets strict standards—here’s what matters most:
| Metric | Role for Hard Capsules |
| Gel Strength (150–250 Bloom) | Balances durability (resists breakage) and swallowability (not too hard). |
| Transparency | Clear shells let users inspect contents; cloudy gelatin hides defects. |
| Purity | Advanced purification removes impurities/heavy metals—avoids reacting with contents. |
| Moisture (12–16%) | Prevents softening/sticking (too much) or brittleness (too little). |
Gelatin for capsules must meet global standards to protect health:
· Adheres to USP, EP, GB—tested for microbes (E. coli, salmonella), heavy metals, and toxins.
· Digestible: Natural protein that breaks down easily; safe for most (except vegetarians/vegans).
· Batch testing: Every lot is checked for consistency—no subpar gelatin is used.
For manufacturers/brands:
1. Pick suppliers with traceable raw materials (farm certifications).
2. Require third-party purity/safety testing.
3. Match gelatin strength to capsule size (larger capsules need higher Bloom).
Final Note
Gelatin is the gold standard for hard capsules—its quality, safety, and performance are unmatched. Whether you’re sourcing for pharmaceuticals or supplements, prioritizing standard-compliant gelatin ensures reliable, trusted products.