We are capsule and health ingredients experts
Powered by industry-leading technologies, science-backed ingredients and a rich history in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets, we are more than just our products. We are capsule experts, ingredient scientists and manufacturers with a solutions-focused mindset and we have been helping brands overcome challenges for more than 100 years.
We support brands with a broad range of hard empty capsules for the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries, including clean label and plant-based alternatives, as well as innovative delivery technologies.
In addition, we offer a range of science-backed specialty health ingredients. Fueled by consumer-centric data, our ingredients enable brands to disrupt the nutraceutical market with purposeful products for human and animal nutrition.
We are constantly evolving and innovating to help you deliver products that meet in-demand patient and consumer needs, as well as key market trends. Our concept-to-market services can assist you in designing, optimizing and manufacturing your unique dosage forms that meet evolving patient and consumer requirements.
Our difference
We are the preferred partner for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies around the world. Helping you to create purpose-led, market-disrupting products with a competitive edge requires a deep commitment to excellence. We are dedicated to adding value to your brand at every stage of your development process, from concept to consumer.
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1970
We introduced the most popular two-piece hard gelatin capsule in the world - Capsugel® Coni-Snap® Hard Gelatin Capsule. This technology is a patented, two-ring closure system facilitating high-speed filling processing and secure locking of capsule body and cap.
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1985
Our portfolio of premium grade L-carnitine ingredients began with the launch of Carnipure® L-carnitine crystalline, which accelerated research and development behind the important benefits of L-carnitine for human and animal health.
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1986
ChromeMate® niacin-bound chromium complex was launched, offering nutraceutical brands an opportunity to create science-backed solutions that help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels and support weight management.
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1990
Carnipure® L-carnitine tartrate was introduced into the nutraceutical market and the first human clinical trials were initiated, leading to groundbreaking new insights behind the role of L-carnitine in supporting exercise recovery.
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1993
Our journey exploring science-backed solutions to meet the needs of the pet and production animal markets began with the launch of Carniking® L-carnitine for pet health.
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1997
Super CitriMax® 60% HCA was launched into the nutraceutical market, offering brands a unique solution for satiety and appetite.
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1998
We transformed the pharmaceutical industry with the introduction of our DBCaps® over-encapsulation capsules. This is a double-blind solution with a tamper-evident design, addressing the clinical trial challenge of testing without bias.
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2000
Capsugel® Licaps® liquid-filled capsules were launched into the nutraceutical market with a revolutionary capsule sealing and fusion technology. This technology is specifically designed to encapsulate liquid-based and specialty powder formulations.
In the same year, we brought our L-Optizinc® zinc mono-L-methionine sulfate ingredient to market, offering superior absorption, retention and antioxidant properties over other forms of zinc.
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2001
UC-II® undenatured type II collagen was launched, marking the beginning of its successful journey as a unique joint health ingredient, available for clinical trial investigation.
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2008
ResistAid® arabinogalactan was launched, making the unique immune health benefits of this ingredient available to brands in the nutraceutical market.
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2009
The gold standard in HPMC capsules was introduced — Capsugel® Vcaps® Plus HPMC capsules. This capsule is produced by specifically developed thermo-gelation processes, without the addition of gelling systems.
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2011
We introduced our DRcaps® designed release capsules. Created to protect sensitive ingredients like probiotics against stomach acid and release them at the right time and in the right location in the body, this capsule polymer allows brands to create more advanced products that target diverse health areas.
We transformed the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical market through Plantcaps® pullulan capsules—a plant-based vegetarian alternative. This groundbreaking solution enables brands to meet the preferences of environmentally-conscious consumers and patients.
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2015
We streamlined the capsule manufacturing filling process with the launch of Ultra III®, a high-speed, semi-automatic filling machine, providing drug developers with an innovative and flexible solution to meet a wide array of filling requirements.
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2016
The first customer commercialized our proprietary lipid multi-particulate technology, strengthening our positioning as an industry-leading partner in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical markets.
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2017
We purchased Capsugel and InterHealth to create a leading integrated solutions provider to the global pharma and consumer healthcare industries.
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2019
In response to changing regulations and consumer demand for an alternative solution, we created the Vcaps® Plus White Opal® capsule. This is a titanium dioxide-free, white colored capsule that is suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets, as well as being allergen and gluten-free.
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2020
The Lonza Engine® Alliance Program was launched. This is our partnership with some of the world’s leading equipment manufacturers, where we offer reliable powder-filling equipment, plus world-class service and support capabilities.
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2021
We celebrated the five-trillionth capsule manufactured, a testament to our unwavering commitment to reliability and quality in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.
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2022
Capsugel® Enprotect® capsule, the next generation of enteric capsules, was launched. This innovative polymer technology enables brands to solve enteric delivery challenges for enhanced delivery.
We have been serving the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries for over 100 years, supporting brands from discovery to distribution. Brands rely on us as a trusted partner for the delivery of high-quality products and unsurpassed services, going above and beyond for our customers and consumer health.
We have built a global manufacturing and logistics network to protect our capacity and ability to maintain a consistent and reliable customer supply in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets.
Our strength comes from our global infrastructure and support network
Globally, our Capsules & Health Ingredients division comprises 20 locations, which collectively help us to service customers in regions where they need it most.Our global network includes complete supply chain, regulatory, quality and application support to meet your needs safely, compliantly and efficiently.
- Capsule manufacturing facilities in North America, Europe, India, China and Japan
- Ingredients manufacturing facilities in North America and China
- Innovation centers in North America, Europe and Japan
Sustainability is embedded in everything we do
Evolving from a producer of electricity and carbide products into a preferred global partner to the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets, we have a long-standing commitment to the safety and sustainability for our community, people and planet.
It is our ambition to reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. To help us reach this target, we have submitted a letter of commitment to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) with plans to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by more than 40% by the end of 2030 (from a 2021 base year).
Our community
We cultivate meaningful relationships and contribute our knowledge, expertise and financial support to communities around the world.
Our people
We put diversity at the heart of our workplace, by providing a secure environment, prioritizing employee health and well-being and cultivating a positive and inclusive work environment.
Our planet
As part of our Vision Zero initiative, we are committed to improving our environmental footprint by continually finding new ways to reduce energy consumption, water use and material demand.
Learn more about our commitment to sustainable business practice here.
We provide a complete offering of innovative delivery solutions for every part of the pharmaceutical development process, from early-stage development through late-stage clinical trials and full commercialization. Our customized services and support help meet your development, delivery optimization and product differentiation needs, with a full end-to-end suite of services, helping you from concept to market and supporting you at every step of your product development journey.
Collaborate with us
We understand the complexities of developing breakthrough consumer health products. Our complete offering of innovative capsules and science-backed ingredient solutions, along with our fully customized services, help you bring your next nutraceutical product idea to life.
Collaborate with us
Our services and support solutions are designed specifically for professionals in the capsules and health ingredients industry. Whether you're involved in manufacturing, formulation, or product development, our range of tailored services is here to support and enhance your operations.
Learn more
Access everything you need to move forward with confidence via our digital gateway – from one-click capsule orders and regulatory support, to downloadable technical data.
ACHIEV™
Navigating the route from concept to market can be complex. But instant access to the right knowledge and support can make this process simple. Sign up for ACHIEV™ and get access to experts, the right quality and regulatory support and self-service tools that simplify the process.