Introduction
Have you ever read the ingredient list on a supplement bottle and wondered what all those extra additives are? Well, you're not alone.
More people are turning to DIY supplements to take control of their health, ensuring they get only the nutrients they need without unwanted fillers. But before you dive in, one key decision awaits: Should you use gelatin or vegetarian capsules? The answer depends on your dietary preferences, the type of supplement you are making, and your lifestyle.
In this post, we will guide you to make the right choice of capsule and show you how to get the best empty capsules for DIY supplements to easily make your supplements at home.
Let's get right to it!
Gelatin vs Vegetarian capsules: Learn the differences
There are several ways to categorize capsules. These include classifications based on the composition (material), physical form, size, application, release mechanism, special features, filling types, etc.
However, the most fundamental difference may be related to capsule composition or make-up materials. Based on the composition, capsules may be said to be made of gelatin or vegetarian.
Gelatin capsules are made from gelatin, an animal-derived product (sources include cattle, pigs, and fish), while vegetarian capsules are produced from plant-sourced materials like hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and starch. Capsule Depot only offers gelatin capsules of bovine origin and vegetarian capsules made of HPMC material.
While both capsule types make an excellent formulation aid in use, they sometimes address different audiences. On the one hand, gelatin capsules remain available to anyone who does not mind taking products of animal origin. Moreover, gelatin capsules are suitable for dry powders, semisolids, and oily liquids. This encompasses a large proportion of formulation ingredients.
On the other hand, vegetarian capsules appeal to both general consumers and those with certain dietary requirements. For example, vegans and advocates for ‘clean label’ manufacturing prefer to go for vegetarian capsules. Moreover, vegetarian capsules can be used to formulate ingredients that are not compatible with gelatin, such as aqueous liquids, wet or hygroscopic solids, and air-sensitive fill ingredients. Although vegetarian capsules are a bit pricier than gelatin capsules, they are a money well spent.
Choosing empty capsules for DIY capsule supplements
Are you formulating herbal supplements or sports vitamin products? Do you have a dietary preference? What are your lifestyle or ethical values relating to health products?
The type of supplement you are making, as well as your preferences, determines your capsule needs. Thus, matching your needs to the qualities of each capsule type can help you make the right decision.
Below, we illustrate how each DIY supplement type can be matched to either a gelatin capsule, a vegetarian capsule, or both. You may finalize your pick based on other considerations, such as dietary requirements, lifestyle, and budget.
|
DIY Supplement |
Best capsule type |
Rationale |
|
General herbal powders (e.g., turmeric, ginger, peppermint, etc. |
Stronger oxygen protection preserves the potency of herbs |
|
|
Vitamins & Minerals (Dry Powders) |
Both work; gelatin is more affordable, while vegetarian is better for sensitive nutrients |
|
|
Oily or Fat-Soluble Ingredients (e.g., Fish Oil, MCT Oil, CBD Oil) |
Less brittle and more flexible than gelatin capsules, due to their lesser water content and tighter molecular structure. |
|
|
Probiotics & Enzymes |
Vegetarian capsules - Acid Resistant |
Regular vegetarian capsules do not protect against stomach acids. However, the acid-resistant vegetarian capsules maintain the integrity of the acid-sensitive materials. It passes through the stomach undissolved and ensures the active ingredients are released only in the intestines. |
|
Amino acids |
Popularly used for fitness supplements and is also more cost-effective |
|
|
Adaptogens & Medicinal Mushrooms (e.g., Ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane, Reishi, Rhodiola, etc.) |
Preserves delicate compounds, offering extra protection from oxidation. Vegetarian capsules are also the preferred capsule among adaptogens and mushroom consumers. |
|
|
Homemade Superfood 1 B (e.g., Spirulina, Chlorella, Beetroot Powder) |
Oxidation protection and appealing to plant-based users |
Conclusion
Capsules —both gelatin and vegetarian—make formulating DIY supplements simple and efficient, allowing you to measure, store, and consume your chosen ingredients easily. Regardless of the products you're working with, choosing the right capsule ensures you get the best results. Hence, each time, ensure your capsule of choice meets your formulation and personal needs adequately.
