HPMC Capsules
HPMC stands for hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, a material derived from plant cellulose. HPMC capsules are the plant-based alternative to gelatin capsules, and they are what we supply to customers who need a shell with no animal-derived ingredients.
Why formulators choose HPMC
- No animal ingredients. Suitable for products labeled vegetarian or vegan, and for customers whose dietary or religious requirements rule out gelatin.
- Lower moisture content than gelatin. This is the practical reason most formulators switch. Gelatin shells hold more water, which can interact with hygroscopic or moisture-sensitive powders. HPMC is the safer shell for those fills.
- Stable across a wider temperature range. HPMC shells stay less brittle in dry conditions and hold their shape better in warm storage than gelatin.
Certifications
- Made from 100% plant-based HPMC
- Vegan, vegetarian, Kosher and Halal certified
- Free from animal products, starch, gluten and preservatives
- Non-GMO and allergen free
- Produced to cGMP standards
Certificates are available on request. Contact us and we will send the current paperwork for the batch you are buying.
What we stock
Our HPMC range covers three finishes:
- Clear/Clear Vegetarian, transparent, so the fill stays visible.
- White/White Vegetarian, opaque, for a uniform finish across a product line.
- Chlorophyll Vegetarian, colored with chlorophyll rather than a synthetic dye.
Sold in packs of 500, 1,000 and 5,000, with larger bulk quantities available for production runs. See our sizing chart for capacity by size.
HPMC or gelatin?
If your product is labeled vegetarian or vegan, or your customers avoid animal-derived ingredients, HPMC is the shell you need. If neither applies and your fill is not moisture sensitive, gelatin capsules are the more economical choice.
Not sure which suits your formula? Contact us and we will help you pick.