Apr 15,2022

The origin of the modern gelatin capsule

Today’s empty gelatin capsules are a massive improvement over yesterday’s clay pills! Telescoping gelatin capsules were originally patented by James Murdoch of London in 1847. They’ve been used throughout the world for over 100 years and have been in widespread use in the U.S. since the 1880s.

That said, today’s empty capsules are not the same as those that Murdoch made. There have been many changes over time, including:

•Gelatin quality: Gelatin makers are now able to achieve a high degree of uniformity within and between lots. Quality capsules, of course, depend on quality raw ingredients. In this areaHGCAPS’s vertical integration—we own our bovine hide based gelatin supply—gives us complete control over the quality and availability of this crucial raw ingredient.

•Capsule design: Design improvements have resulted in empty capsules that are meant to be run on high-speed filling machines and feature air vents, locking mechanisms and more. HGCAPS’s gelatin capsules have an excellent capsule-to-tooling fit as well as stronger domes to reduce splits, tucks and breaks.

•Capsule making technology: Thanks to improvements in capsule making technology,HGCAPS manufactures gelatin capsules that have extremely tight tolerances. As a result, the capsules run smoothly in filling machines from one lot to the next.

Why empty gelatin capsules remain so popular with pharmaceutical companies

Two-piece gelatin capsules, which are widely available, offer an optimal combination of in vivo performance, excellent handling in high-speed filling machines and shelf-life stability. Here are some of the many reasons why this medicine delivery system has stood the test of time to remain a top choice of the global pharmaceutical industry…

• Cost efficiency – Because the raw materials are less expensive and the manufacturing process is less complex, gelatin capsules are more budget-friendly than two-piece capsules made from HPMC.

• Safety – Gelatin has Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status for pharmaceutical applications from most of the world’s regulatory authorities. It is non-allergenic, natural, and free of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).

When all factors are considered, it is no surprise that gelatin capsules have stood the test of time. To request empty hard capsules using HGCAPS’s G-CAPS®.