Frequently asked questions about empty hard capsules from GoCaps
What are empty hard capsules?
Empty hard capsules are two-piece capsule shells consisting of a capsule cap and a capsule body. They are filled with the intended fill material during the subsequent production process. Depending on the application, different materials, sizes and configurations are available.
What types of empty hard capsules does GoCaps offer?
GoCaps offers various types of empty hard capsules for different product requirements:
- plant-based HPMC capsules (K-Caps®)
- gelatin capsules (G-Caps®)
- acid-resistant capsules (AR-Caps®)
- capsules for liquid fill formulations (LQ-Caps®)
- titanium dioxide-free capsules
- colored and printed capsules
Which capsule type is suitable for a product depends, among other factors, on the fill material, the desired capsule size, the processing requirements and the requirements placed on the capsule shell material.
What is the difference between HPMC capsules and gelatin capsules?
The key difference lies in the capsule shell material:
- HPMC capsules are made from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose and are plant-based.
- Gelatin capsules are made from gelatin.
The selection should not be based solely on the material. The fill material, processing requirements, desired product positioning and additional product-specific requirements should also be taken into account.
Which capsule is suitable for dietary supplements?
Depending on the product concept, different types of hard capsules may be suitable for dietary supplements. These include plant-based HPMC capsules and gelatin capsules. When selecting a capsule, the following aspects should be considered in particular:
- type and properties of the fill material
- required fill volume
- desired capsule shell material
- capsule size
- color and design
- processing requirements
- desired product positioning
A general suitability statement cannot be made. The appropriate capsule must be selected based on the specific project requirements.
What sizes are available for empty hard capsules?
Empty hard capsules are available in different sizes. The appropriate capsule size depends primarily on the volume and properties of the fill material as well as the intended dosage. For selection purposes, GoCaps should ideally receive the following information:
- type of fill material
- desired fill quantity
- bulk density, if known
- desired capsule shell material
- requirements regarding processing and product design
Are acid-resistant empty hard capsules available?
Yes. GoCaps offers acid-resistant capsules under the AR-Caps® brand. These capsules have been developed to protect ingredients from stomach acid. Whether an acid-resistant capsule is suitable for a specific product depends on the formulation, intended application and product-specific requirements and must be assessed individually.
Can empty hard capsules be filled with liquids?
Yes. For liquid fill formulations, GoCaps offers specialized LQ-Caps®. Whether a capsule is suitable for a specific liquid depends, among other factors, on the composition of the fill material and the requirements of the filling process.
Are titanium dioxide-free hard capsules available?
Yes. GoCaps offers a selection of titanium dioxide-free hard capsules. Available colors, sizes and configurations depend on the respective capsule type and project requirements. For a specific inquiry, please provide the capsule type, size, desired color and required quantity.
What colors are available for empty hard capsules?
Depending on the capsule type, empty hard capsules are available in different colors and configurations. These include transparent, semi-transparent and opaque options. Custom colors can also be evaluated on a project-specific basis. In addition to existing standard colors, individual color requests may be considered. Feasibility depends, among other factors, on the capsule shell material, size, desired color shade and project quantity.
Can hard capsules be custom printed?
Yes. Hard capsules can be custom printed on a project-specific basis. Feasibility depends, among other factors, on the capsule type, size, color and desired print design.
Can I request samples of empty hard capsules?
Yes. Samples can be requested for initial evaluations and product testing. To process your request efficiently, it is recommended to provide the following information:
- desired capsule type
- capsule size
- color or configuration
- required sample quantity
- intended application
- shipping address
GoCaps will then review which samples are suitable for your project.
Where can I buy empty hard capsules?
Standard stock products can be ordered via the GoCaps webshop. For special colors, specific capsule types, custom printing or project-specific requirements, an inquiry can be submitted directly to GoCaps. GoCaps serves commercial customers and manufacturers.
What information does GoCaps need for a capsule inquiry?
To enable a fast evaluation, companies should provide the following information:
- capsule type or desired capsule shell material
- capsule size
- color and configuration
- required quantity
- destination country
- intended application
- fill material or product characteristics
- special requirements regarding color, printing or processing
If not all information is available, GoCaps can assist in identifying suitable options.
What quality documents are available for hard capsules?
Product specifications, general quality documents, declarations and certificates are available upon request and depend on the respective product. Batch-specific certificates of analysis must be assigned to a specific order, delivery or batch. Therefore, article numbers, order information, delivery references or batch details should be provided when making an inquiry.
