Softgels and hard capsules both deliver a dose inside a shell, but they are made very differently and suit different kinds of formulations. Here is a simple comparison to help you plan your range.
Hard capsules
A hard capsule has two pieces, a body and a cap, that fit together. They are usually filled with:
- Powders
- Granules
- Pellets
Hard capsules are available in gelatin and in vegetarian (HPMC) shells, in many sizes and colours. They are widely used for antibiotics, vitamins and many other generic formulations.
Softgels
A softgel is a single, sealed, flexible shell that is formed and filled in one step. Softgels are usually filled with:
- Oils
- Liquids
- Suspensions in oil
That is why softgels are common for oil-based nutraceutical products such as vitamin E, omega-3 and many vitamin D formulations.
How to choose
- If your formulation is a dry powder or granule, a hard capsule is usually the natural choice.
- If your formulation is an oil or liquid, a softgel is usually the natural choice.
- If you need a vegetarian product, ask your manufacturer which shell options are available for that formulation.
- Softgels need specialised encapsulation equipment, so rates and MOQs can differ from hard capsules. Ask for both in your quotation.
Packing
Both can be packed in blisters or in bottles under your brand name. Choose the pack based on how your customers buy: strips and blisters suit chemist sales, while bottles are common for nutraceuticals.
Alrightmed manufactures both capsules and softgels at our plant in Baddi. Ask for a quotation for your formulation.
Published by Alrightmed, third-party pharmaceutical manufacturer, Jharmajri, Baddi (HP).
