Innovation and origins: What led Lonza Capsugel to develop Plantcaps® capsules and how does the pullulan (tapioca-based) material set them apart from other vegetarian capsules such as HPMC?
At Lonza Capsugel, we wanted to give brands and consumers a plant-based alternative to traditional gelatin capsules. That’s why we developed Plantcaps® capsules. They’re made from pullulan, which is produced by fermenting tapioca, and that gives the capsule a crystal-clear, non-reactive shell with excellent oxygen barrier protection.
Performance and applications: how do Plantcaps® capsules perform in terms of dissolution, stability and machinability compared with gelatin capsules — especially for oxygen-sensitive ingredients such as vitamins and some herbs and botanicals?
Plantcaps® capsules perform just like gelatin capsules when it comes to immediate release and disintegration. They have the best oxygen barrier of any vegan capsule, which is really important for oxygen-sensitive ingredients such as vitamin C, Matcha green tea extract or CoQ10. They also hold up well under accelerated ageing conditions, and our customers tell us they run smoothly on standard capsule-filling equipment.
Consumer trends and market appeal: what role do Plantcaps® capsules play in terms of meeting today’s consumer demand for vegan and allergen-free supplement options?
We see a clear shift toward plant-based products, and Plantcaps® capsules help brands meet that demand. They’re 100% vegan-certified, gluten-free, preservative-free and allergen-free.
Regulatory and certification: what certifications (Vegan, Kosher, Halal, Non-GMO Project Verified, etc.) do Plantcaps® capsules carry and how do they support brand differentiation in global markets?
Plantcaps® capsules come with multiple certifications, including Vegan, Kosher, Halal, and Non-GMO Project Verified. They are produced under GMP controls and are free from gluten, preservatives and allergens.
Customisation and branding: what options are available for customisation — such as capsule size, colour or printing — and how do these enhance product identity for supplement brands?
We offer Plantcaps® capsules in a full range of sizes (00, 0 and 1 in natural transparent), including elongated options. We're currently exploring future colour options and would love your input. If you're interested in shaping the next wave of innovation to enhance your brand identity, we'd be excited to collaborate with you. Get in touch!
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