Aug 02,2022

　　The most common size empty capsule used for food supplements are 00 capsules. However, there are 10 standardized sizes. We stock the 8 most common sizes, but not as standard #00E and #0E ​​stock, they are "extended" versions of #00 and #0. We can source these upon request.

　　The right size for you depends on the end use of the capsule and the number of active ingredients and excipients that will be used in the formulation. The reason 0 and 00 are most commonly used is because they are large but still easy to swallow.

　　Factors to Consider

　　When choosing the right size to capsule for your purposes, a balance needs to be struck:

　　required dose

　　The required dosage boils down to the active ingredient or ingredients required for the product to be effective. You will need to decide how many doses you want in each capsule, eg 1000 mg of vitamin C, which is then combined with excipients to help the product flow through the machine. Once mixed, this is called "blending".

　　You need the correct dose of ingredients in the mix for each capsule. If one capsule is too many, you can try packing the powder into one capsule, or you may want to consider spreading the dose into multiple capsules. For example, instead of 1 #000 capsule split it into 3 #00.

　　volume of mixture

　　The volume depends on the bulk density of the powders that make up the mixture. We have a tool and guide on bulk density to help calculate the bulk density of your mixture.

　　You need to know the bulk density of the mixture to calculate how much of the active ingredient ends up in each capsule. This may cause you to have to change your mixture slightly or spread the dose over more than one capsule.

　　easy to swallow

　　The size can sometimes be selected simply by the physical size of the capsule. For example, when choosing capsules for children or animals who may not be able to swallow larger capsules.

　　The reason why size 00 and size 0 is the most commonly used capsules in manufacturing is that they have enough volume for a large mix and are easy for humans to swallow.

　　Capsule Type

　　Certain capsules, such as pullulan capsules, are only available in certain sizes. Determining the type of capsules you want to produce may determine your choice.

　　Empty capsules, HPMC capsules, and gelatin capsules are standardized worldwide in size. However, they may vary slightly between manufacturers. If you purchased your device from a different supplier, it is a good idea to test whether the capsules you purchased work in your application.

　　As we said before, the correct capsule in each case depends on the application and how many ingredients each capsule ultimately needs.