01 Plant-Based HPMC Capsules Are Expanding Beyond Traditional Gelatin Shells The demand for vegetarian and moisture-sensitive dosage forms is increasing interest in HPMC capsules as an alternative to gelatin shells. HPMC shells typically contain around 2%–6% moisture, compared with 12%–16% required to maintain the integrity of hard gelatin shells, supporting better stability under dry storage conditions. This material shift expands the use of plant-based empty capsules in pharmaceuticals and formulations that require tighter moisture control.
02 Capsule Shells Are Becoming More Specialized for Controlled Drug Release The need for targeted and delayed drug delivery is driving manufacturers toward empty capsules with functional shell materials and enteric properties. A peer-reviewed study found that an HPMC-phthalate capsule formulation remained stable at pH 1.2 for 120 minutes with no drug release and then achieved complete pantoprazole release within 8 minutes after exposure to intestinal conditions at pH 6.8. This specialization allows empty capsules to protect active ingredients in the stomach and release them at more suitable sites in the gastrointestinal tract.
01 Expansion of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing and Generic Drug Production Is Increasing Demand for Empty Capsule Shells, Driving the Empty Capsule Shell Market. Expansion of pharmaceutical manufacturing increases the need for empty capsule shells used in the production of oral solid dosage forms. Higher manufacturing volumes create greater demand for capsule supplies across branded drugs, generics, and contract manufacturing operations. The outcome is stronger purchasing requirements for empty capsules, while manufacturers expand production capacity and supply networks to serve pharmaceutical companies. Capsule-based medicines such as antibiotics, pain medicines, and nutritional formulations provide common applications across pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities.Generic drug production creates sustained demand for empty capsules as manufacturers develop cost-efficient alternatives to branded medicines. Higher generic manufacturing volumes increase consumption of capsule shells for products that use two-piece capsules as their dosage form. The outcome is greater demand from generic-drug manufacturers and contract pharmaceutical producers, supporting higher supply requirements for capsule-shell manufacturers. Generic medicines for areas such as cardiovascular disease, infections, and gastrointestinal conditions commonly use hard capsules for oral delivery.
May 28, 2026: Lonza Capsugel published peer-reviewed research demonstrating that its Licaps® DUOCAP® capsule-in-capsule technology delivers up to four times higher enzyme activity than standard immediate-release capsules, reinforcing the performance of advanced capsule delivery systems for nutraceutical applications.
May 20, 2026: Lonza Capsugel announced a long-term renewable energy agreement for its Bornem, Belgium hard empty capsule manufacturing facility. The project integrates locally generated wind power into capsule production, supplying approximately 14% of the site's annual electricity demand and supporting sustainable manufacturing of hard empty capsules.
February 26, 2026: Lonza Capsugel showcased its expanded portfolio of plant-based empty capsules, including Organicaps™, at Natural Products Expo West 2026. The company also highlighted its North American manufacturing capabilities and sustainable capsule production solutions.
October 15, 2025: Lonza Capsugel launched Organicaps™, the first USDA Organic-certified plant-based immediate-release pullulan empty capsule manufactured in North America. The capsule is designed for nutraceutical and dietary supplement manufacturers seeking certified organic dosage forms while offering high oxygen barrier properties and formulation stability.