If you are planning to launch nutraceuticals or supplements in YOUR BRAND and looking for contract manufacturers of capsules, then read further to understand about standard capsule sizes. Knowing the standard capsule sizes and understanding their fill capacity helps you to determine the right formulation for your product.
We are a leading contract manufacturer of supplements from India and we specialize in private label or white label nutraceutical manufacturing. We want to help you in your journey of contract manufacturing of capsules and this article will help you make informed decisions for developing herbal extracts, dietary supplements or functional supplements.
Why does Capsule Size and Fill capacity matter?
The capsule size and its fill capacity determines the following actors:
- Dosage Accuracy – Helps determine the amount of active ingredients per capsule.
- Swallowability – Larger capsules may be difficult to swallow, choosing the right size keeping the target consumer in mind is a must
- Ingredient Bulk Density – The fill capacity is directly proportional to the fill space. Lower the density, lower is the content (in milligrams) per capsule.
- Flow Properties – Free flowing powders can be filled in capsules with minimal material loss. Poor flowing powders may require excipients or fillers, thus compromising the amount of active ingredients in the mix.
- Compression – Compression techniques can be used to compress powder to fit more per capsule.
- Capsule Type – The fill capacity can vary depending on the type of capsules – Gelatin or Vegan Capsules
A ready reckoner for Standard Capsule Sizes and Their Fill Capacity
The size of capsules ranges from the largest (000) to the smallest (5). The bulk density of the ingredient mix decides the fill capacity of the capsules.
| Capsule Size | Volume (ml) | Fill Capacity (mg) | Common Uses |
| 000 (Largest) | 1.37 ml | 800-1600 mg | Collagen, Proteins, herbal supplements |
| 00 | 0.95 ml | 600-1100 mg | Collagen, amino acids, vitamin blends |
| 0 | 0.68 ml | 400-800 mg | Probiotics, functional supplements |
| 1 | 0.50 ml | 300-600 mg | Herbal extracts, multivitamins |
| 2 | 0.37 ml | 250-500 mg | Digestive enzymes, nootropics |
| 3 | 0.30 ml | 200-400 mg | Adaptogenic herbs, mild formulations |
| 4 | 0.21 ml | 120-250 mg | Highly potent active ingredients |
| 5 (Smallest) | 0.13 ml | 80-150 mg | Homeopathic formulations, high-dose APIs |
Choosing the Right Capsule Size for Your Supplement
The capsule size is governed by one too many factors. Get the following data points ready as you set off to decide the right capsule size for your next supplement –
- Ingredient mix, Serving size, Label claims
- Bulk density of the ingredient mix
- Capsule – Gelatin or Vegan, Hard or Soft Gel
- Desired level of ease of swallowability
A quick guideline classified based on the dosage and formulation.
1. Low-Dose Formulations
Size 1, 2, or 3 capsules are suitable when the active ingredients have high potency .The single dose can range between 120-500 mg. A few examples are :
- Herbal extracts
- Digestive enzymes
- Vitamins in concentrated forms
2. Medium-Dose Supplements
Size 0 or 00 capsules are suitable when the active ingredients have moderate potency. The single dose can range between 400-800 mg per dose.
- Multivitamins
- Prebiotics & probiotics
- Functional herbal blends
3. High-Dose Formulations
Size 000 capsules are suitable when the active ingredients have moderate potency or low bulk density. .The single dose exceeds 1000 mg. A few examples are :
- Protein powders
- Bulk amino acids
- Sports nutrition capsules
Choose us for your Nutraceutical Manufacturing
We are a leading contract manufacturer for nutraceuticals in capsules, tablets, powder premixes and drink formats. We also offer a variety of personal care formulations like soaps, masks, creams, lotions, gels and more. Our customers choose us for one or more of the following reasons:
- We have a wide range of ready formulations to choose from.
- We readily offer customisations to our existing formulations and packaging options.
- We fully support new product development to work on your desired formulations.
- We manufacture all the products in certified plants.
- We ensure all regulatory requirements are fulfilled for hassle free exports.
- We work with trusted logistic partners to ensure your product is delivered in time without damage.
Get Started with Your Own Supplement Brand
If you are looking to start your own supplement brand contact us today to know more about our ready formulations OR share your desired formulation with us and our team will get in touch with you. Reach out to us now on info@biowearthglobal.com