empty gelatin capsules

Empty capsules are fillable capsules used to contain and deliver medications or supplements in solid forms. They are basically small containers that are usually made from gelatin or some sort of a vegetarian substitute.

Quick overview of empty capsules

Empty capsules have a very interesting history. In 1833, Mothes and Dublanc were given a patent for a method to produce a single-piece gelatin capsule that was sealed with a drop of gelatin solution.

Empty gelatin capsules are completely made out of bovine hide gelatin. Gelatin is basically a type of protein that is made using animal collagen. These capsules are tasteless, and because they have no taste of their own, they make an ideal choice for carrying substances without messing with their flavor. These capsules can be pulled apart, filled, and snapped back together with ease. They prevent leaks and contain the contents completely. Gelatin capsules are safe for consumption and do not contain contaminants. On the other hand, empty veggie capsules or vegetable capsules provide a suitable alternative for those who cannot eat meat or choose to avoid eating meat. Vegetable capsules are made from plant-based ingredients. They are not different than gelatin capsules when it comes to their taste. They are tasteless, too. Like gelatin capsules, they are easy to digest. Consider using vegetable capsules in case of allergies or intolerance.

Available sizes in empty capsules

Empty capsule sizes for certain supplements can be decided with the help of a guide. Gelatin capsules have a lot of different sizes, ranging from size 4 (smallest) to size 000 (largest). They are available in different colors, too. This means that they can be customized. Each size has certain dimensions and different parts of the capsule, including the closed length, cap length, and body length. Vegetarian capsules follow similar sizing, with sizes ranging from 000 to 4. The weight capacities of vegetarian capsules are also comparable to gelatin capsules.

How to maintain empty capsules for effectiveness?

Maintaining empty capsules is very important in order to maintain their effectiveness and safety. Keep the capsules between 10-40°C and humidity levels of 35-65% to keep them from softening, deformation, or hardening. Protect the capsules from direct sunlight. Exposure to direct sunlight can degrade the capsule quality over time. Avoid sudden changes in temperature, which can cause capsules to misshape or lump together.

Always handle capsules with completely dry hands. Wet hands can cause the capsules to start dissolving, leading them to stick to the hands or stick to other capsules when placed back inside the box. Make sure that the lid of the capsule box is closed tightly. Place the capsules on a shelf or preferably in a cool cupboard away from any moisture. Proper storage ensures that the capsules remain safe and ready for use as needed. Additionally, if, for some reason, the capsules end up being softened, consider shaking them gently after sealing them in the refrigerator. Placing a small amount of edible powder, such as cornstarch or flour, in the pill box can also help eliminate capsule adhesion. It is very important to keep the capsules well-maintained for effective use.