Gelatin vs HPMC Capsules

Image 1 ALT: Comparison infographic showing differences between gelatin capsules and HPMC vegetarian capsules including dissolving speed, stability and moisture resistance

Choosing between gelatin capsules and HPMC capsules is important when selecting empty capsules for supplements, herbs, vitamins and powders. Both capsule types are widely used, but they have different properties, ingredients and advantages.

This guide compares gelatin vs HPMC capsules including:

  • Ingredients
  • Vegetarian suitability
  • Dissolving properties
  • Moisture resistance
  • Stability
  • Common uses

What Are Gelatin Capsules?

Gelatin capsules are traditional capsules made from animal-derived gelatin, usually sourced from bovine or porcine materials.

They are widely used in the supplement and pharmaceutical industries because they:

  • dissolve quickly
  • are cost-effective
  • work well for many supplement powders
Image 2 ALT: Gelatin vs HPMC capsule composition infographic showing animal-derived gelatin capsules and plant-based HPMC capsule ingredients

Gelatin capsules are one of the most common capsule types available worldwide.

What Are HPMC Capsules?

HPMC capsules are vegetarian capsules made from Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, a plant-based material derived from cellulose.

HPMC capsules are commonly chosen for:

  • vegetarian supplements
  • vegan supplements
  • moisture-sensitive ingredients
  • premium formulations

They are sometimes referred to as:

  • vegetarian capsules
  • vegan capsules
  • plant-based capsules

Gelatin vs HPMC Capsules Comparison

Image 3 ALT: Moisture and stability comparison infographic for gelatin capsules and HPMC capsules in different humidity conditions
FeatureGelatin CapsulesHPMC Capsules
SourceAnimal-derivedPlant-based
VegetarianNoYes
VeganNoYes
Dissolving SpeedFastFast
Moisture ResistanceModerateBetter
StabilityGoodExcellent
Suitable for HerbsYesYes
Suitable for Hygroscopic IngredientsLess idealBetter
PopularityVery commonGrowing rapidly

Which Capsule Type Is Better?

Both capsule types are excellent depending on the application.

Gelatin Capsules Are Often Preferred For:

  • traditional supplements
  • lower-cost production
  • general powder filling
  • standard supplement use

HPMC Capsules Are Often Preferred For:

  • vegetarian products
  • vegan products
  • premium supplements
  • moisture-sensitive ingredients
  • hygroscopic powders

Are HPMC Capsules Vegetarian?

Yes. HPMC capsules are plant-based and suitable for:

  • vegetarians
  • vegans
  • many religious dietary requirements

This makes HPMC capsules increasingly popular in modern supplement manufacturing.

Do Gelatin Capsules Dissolve Faster?

Gelatin capsules typically dissolve very quickly and are widely accepted for supplement use.

HPMC capsules also dissolve effectively, although environmental conditions and formulations can slightly affect dissolution behaviour.

Both are commonly used in the supplement industry.

Moisture & Stability Differences

One major advantage of HPMC capsules is improved stability in humid environments.

HPMC capsules are often preferred for:

  • hygroscopic powders
  • moisture-sensitive ingredients
  • formulations requiring higher stability

Gelatin capsules may become softer or more brittle depending on humidity levels.

Image 4 ALT: Best uses and applications comparison for gelatin capsules and HPMC vegetarian capsules including supplements, herbs and moisture-sensitive ingredients

Best Uses for Gelatin Capsules

Gelatin capsules are commonly used for:

  • vitamins
  • herbal powders
  • sports supplements
  • general-purpose capsules

They remain one of the most economical capsule options.

Best Uses for HPMC Capsules

HPMC capsules are commonly used for:

  • vegan supplements
  • premium health products
  • sensitive ingredients
  • moisture-sensitive powders
  • clean-label products

Capsule Sizes Available

Both gelatin and HPMC capsules are available in multiple sizes including:

  • Size 000
  • Size 00
  • Size 0
  • Size 1
  • Size 2
  • Size 3
  • Size 4

Which Capsule Should You Choose?

Choose gelatin capsules if you want:

  • traditional capsules
  • lower cost
  • fast dissolving capsules

Choose HPMC capsules if you want:

  • vegetarian capsules
  • vegan capsules
  • better moisture stability
  • plant-based ingredients
Image 5 ALT: Feature comparison chart infographic showing differences between gelatin capsules and HPMC capsules including vegan suitability, stability and cost

Need Empty Capsules?

Browse our range of:

  • HPMC vegetarian capsules
  • gelatin capsules
  • multiple capsule sizes
  • bulk capsule quantities
  • wholesale capsule supplies

Available in:

  • Size 000
  • Size 00
  • Size 0
  • Size 1
  • Size 2
  • Size 3
  • Size 4

Frequently Asked Questions

Are HPMC capsules vegan?

Yes, HPMC capsules are plant-based and suitable for vegan use.

Are gelatin capsules vegetarian?

No, gelatin capsules are animal-derived.

Which capsules are better for moisture-sensitive ingredients?

HPMC capsules are generally preferred for moisture-sensitive powders.

Are gelatin capsules cheaper than HPMC capsules?

Gelatin capsules are often more economical than HPMC capsules.

Do both capsule types dissolve properly?

Yes, both gelatin and HPMC capsules are widely used and dissolve effectively for supplement applications.

Important Note

Capsule performance may vary depending on storage conditions, ingredients, humidity and formulation type.