Everything You Need to Know About Empty Capsules in 2025


The global demand for empty capsules continues to rise, driven by the growing pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. Whether you're a supplement manufacturer or a small-scale herbal product creator, understanding the nuances of empty capsules can help you make informed purchasing decisions. This guide covers everything from sourcing reliable Chinese suppliers to selecting the right capsule type for your needs.


How to Find Reliable Empty Capsules from China in 2025


China remains the world's leading manufacturer of empty capsules, offering competitive prices and diverse options. When sourcing from China:

  • Verify GMP and ISO certifications
  • Request third-party testing reports
  • Check minimum order quantities (MOQs)
  • Evaluate production lead times
  • Review supplier transaction history

Top platforms like Alibaba show that reputable manufacturers typically have 3+ years of operation history and maintain consistent quality control standards.


What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Empty Capsules from China


Import regulations vary by country - ensure your supplier provides capsules meeting your market's pharmaceutical standards. Consider:

  • Customs clearance requirements
  • Shipping methods (air vs sea freight)
  • Potential import duties
  • Storage conditions during transit

Many successful buyers recommend ordering samples first to verify capsule dissolution rates and physical integrity before large purchases.


Types of Empty Capsules


The three primary capsule categories include:

Gelatin Capsules

Traditional animal-derived option with excellent bioavailability. Available in various opacities and sizes.

Vegetarian Capsules

Plant-based alternatives (HPMC, pullulan) suitable for vegan products and religious markets.

Specialty Capsules

Includes enteric-coated, delayed-release, and liquid-filled variants for specific applications.


Functions and features of Empty Capsules


Modern capsules offer several technical advantages:

  • Precise dosage delivery
  • Taste and odor masking
  • Improved ingredient stability
  • Faster dissolution than tablets
  • Custom printing capabilities

Leading manufacturers now offer capsules with dissolution times ranging from 5-30 minutes depending on formulation requirements.


Scenarios of Empty Capsules


Beyond pharmaceuticals, capsules serve multiple industries:

Nutraceuticals

For vitamins, herbal extracts, and dietary supplements.

Cosmeceuticals

Encapsulating beauty supplements and collagen products.

Veterinary Medicine

Pet health supplements and medications.

Research Applications

Clinical trial formulations and laboratory testing.


How to Choose Empty Capsules


Selection criteria should include:

  1. Compatibility with your fill material
  2. Target market regulations
  3. Consumer preferences (vegetarian/non-vegetarian)
  4. Production equipment requirements
  5. Shelf life considerations

Industry data shows size #0 and #00 capsules account for over 60% of supplement industry usage due to their versatility.


Empty Capsules Q & A


Q: What's the price range for bulk empty capsules?

A: Prices vary from $0.02-$0.15 per capsule depending on material, quantity, and customization. Vegetarian capsules typically cost 20-30% more than gelatin.

Q: How should I store empty capsules?

A: Maintain at 15-25°C with 35-65% relative humidity. Improper storage can cause capsules to become brittle or sticky.

Q: Can I get custom-colored capsules?

A: Yes, most manufacturers offer Pantone color matching with minimum order quantities starting around 50,000 units.

Q: What's the typical lead time from Chinese suppliers?

A: Standard products ship in 2-3 weeks, while custom orders may require 4-6 weeks production time.

Q: Are Chinese capsules FDA-approved?

A: Reputable manufacturers produce capsules meeting FDA, EDQM, and other international standards, but final product approval depends on your formulation and local regulations.