Hard capsules are widely used in the supplementation, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. It is crucial that the encapsulation process is carried out correctly and that the appropriate capsules are selected. Hard gelatin capsules are the most popular. What is worth knowing about them, where they are used and what are their greatest advantages?
What are hard capsules?
Hard capsules consist of two cylindrical elements that snap together when one is inserted into the other. They can be filled with substances in liquid or solid form. Hard capsules are valued for precise dosing, stability and the ability to mask the taste and smell of active ingredients.
What are hard capsules made of?
Hard capsules are mainly made of gelatin, water, glycerol and excipients. They can be made from pork, beef or fish gelatin. The encapsulation process is not simple, so it should be carried out by reputable producers. Business IOC specializes in the production of hard capsules, using modern technologies in accordance with GMP and ISO 22000 standards, minimizing or eliminating excipients.
Advantages and disadvantages of hard capsules
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Quickly dissolves in the stomach | Sometimes they may cause stomach discomfort (v IOC we try to eliminate excipients). |
| Release of contents approximately 3 minutes after taking | They may be more difficult to swallow (it is recommended to select the appropriate size). |
| Masking unpleasant taste | Gelatin not suitable for vegans (IOC also offers plant capsules). |
| Possibility of controlled drug release | They may contain allergens such as gluten (incl IOC can be eliminated by appropriate selection of ingredients). |
| Possibility of filling with powders, granules, dragees, liquids and pastes | |
| Protection of sensitive ingredients from light and air |
Hard capsules – sizes
Hard capsules are available in sizes from 0,06 ml to 3,6 ml. For example, size 3 capsules are very popular among dietary supplements. These capsules can be filled with a variety of substances, making them versatile and can be tailored to the specific needs of consumers.
How to take hard capsules?
Taking hard capsules is simple. Please follow the instructions on the dietary supplement leaflet in their packaging. The capsules are usually swallowed whole with plenty of liquid. It is also important that the blistering process is carried out professionally, providing the capsules with an appropriate visual and functional effect as well as protection against sunlight and air.
Additional technological aspects
Capsules can be enriched with preservatives, fillers, flavors, sweeteners and dyes. They can also be covered with a film that changes the rate of release of the active substance. Brand and dosage information can be printed on the capsules, making product identification easier.
Advanced technologies for the production of hard capsules
| Etap | Description |
|---|---|
| Capsule formation | Finger-shaped molds immersed in hot gelatin solution create a thin layer. |
| Drying | The gelatin layer is dried under controlled conditions to ensure the proper hardness of the capsule. |
| Separating and trimming | The capsules are removed from the molds and cut to the appropriate length. |
| Assembly and filling | The capsule parts are assembled and filled with medicinal ingredients or nutraceuticals. |
Why us?
Why choose IOC as a contract manufacturer of your supplement?
Hard capsules vs. tablets and soft capsules
| Comparison | Hard capsules | Pills | Soft gelatin capsules |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Powder or granules, enclosed in a hard gelatin shell | Compressed powder or granules | liquids or semi-solids in elastic gelatin |
| Release | Rapid release in the digestive system | Slower release, solubility dependent | Quick release, especially for liquids |
| Advantages | Easy to swallow, no distinct taste | Possibility of dividing and precise dosing | Perfect for liquid substances, gentle on the digestive tract |
| Disadvantages | You can't always figure them out; not suitable for vegans | Unpleasant taste, slower absorption | More expensive to produce, may be difficult to swallow for some |
Summation
The production of hard and soft capsules requires advanced technologies and rigorous quality standards. IOC as a leading manufacturer of hard capsules, it offers a wide range of products tailored to the individual needs of customers. Hard capsules are valued for precise dosing, quick release of active ingredients and the ability to mask taste.
For more information, please see our entry on hard capsules.