Capsules Redefined
Most people look closely at the ingredients in a supplement, but rarely consider the capsule itself. We do.
The capsule provides a barrier between the formulation and the outside environment, which can be particularly important for oxygen-sensitive nutrients such as Vitamin C for example.
That's why we choose plant-based pullulan capsules, combining a simple capsule shell with exceptional oxygen-barrier properties.
Benefits of Capsules
Cleaner Formulations
Capsules allow powdered ingredients to be delivered without the binders and coatings commonly required by many tablets and gummies. Our Vitamin C contains active ingredients inside a pullulan capsule, without fillers or flow agents.
Flexible to Take
Capsules can be swallowed normally or opened and the contents mixed with food or drink for those who prefer not to take them whole.
Simple Delivery
A capsule provides a straightforward way to contain and protect powdered ingredients while delivering a consistent amount in each capsule.
The Choice of Capsule Material
For decades, the supplement industry relied heavily on animal-derived gelatin capsules, which dominated the market since their invention in the 19th century. As consumer awareness grew about both environmental and dietary concerns, manufacturers began exploring plant-based alternatives.
HPMC
Plant-based capsules are commonly made from HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), a cellulose-derived material widely used throughout the supplement industry.
HPMC works well for many applications, but its oxygen-barrier properties are lower than those of pullulan. For an oxygen-sensitive ingredient such as Vitamin C, that difference is one of the reasons we prefer pullulan.
Why We Choose Pullulan
Pullulan is a polysaccharide produced through the fermentation of tapioca by Aureobasidium pullulans (1). The resulting material can be used to create clear, plant-based capsule shells with excellent oxygen-barrier properties.
For Vitamin C, which is sensitive to oxidation, that additional protection is particularly valuable.
Benefits of Pullulan Capsules
Superior Oxygen Protection
Pullulan provides an exceptional barrier against oxygen. Its oxygen barrier is over 300 times stronger than HPMC, helping protect oxygen-sensitive ingredients such as Vitamin C throughout the product's shelf life (2).
Made by Fermentation
Pullulan is produced through fermentation, creating a plant-based capsule material without gelatine.
Vegan and Flexible
Our pullulan capsules are suitable for vegans and can either be swallowed whole or opened when preferred.
Why Isn't Pullulan More Widely Used?
Pullulan capsules cost considerably more than standard HPMC alternatives, which is one reason they are less commonly used.
For us, the additional cost is justified by the oxygen protection they provide, particularly for a sensitive ingredient such as Vitamin C.