FAQ

What size capsules do you stock?

We stock the most commonly used gelatin and vegicap capsules - size 1 (our smallest), size 0 (our mid size) and size 00 (our largest). A size 0 capsule is the same size as a 500g Panado capsule.

What are the exact capsule dimensions?

You can see our capsule dimensions by clicking here. 

How much powder can I fit into a capsule?

Different powders have different densities, so unless you know the specific density of your powder, you cannot relate volume(ml) to weight(mg). In addition, powder fineness, moisture content and amount of compaction in the capsule will also affect the weight of powder in a capsule. You can see a table of opproximate fill weights by clicking here.

Can I use a liquid in these capsules?

Gelatin and vegicap hard capsules are designed for use only with dry powders.
We do however have several clients who fill their capsules with oils. If you do fill with oils, please be aware that liquid filling is outside the specification of the capsules, and there may be leakage, particularly if your liquids contain any water.
To minimise leakage, blend your oils with cocoa butter or coconut oil, and keep the filled capsules refrigerated. Cocoa butter has a higher melting point, so it is normally solid at room temperature, which helps prevent leakage.
It is good practice to fill the bottom (long) part of the capsules with the oil blend and allow the contents to solidify in a refrigerator before replacing the top (short) part of the capsule.
Softgel capsules are made for containing liquids, but they can only be filled by industrial machines using sheets of gelatin or HMPC. The materials are not available in small quantities, and softgels cannot be encapsulated by hand.

This is a small softgel encapsulating machine:

Why do my capsules get stuck in my capsule filler?

There are 2 reasons capsules fit too tightly in the filler:-
1) The capsules have absorbed moisture and become slightly larger.
2) The filler has dirt/residue in the openings.
To dehydrate capsules, use the bag of silica gel that came with your Capsule Connection capsule filler. Remove the brown/white paper sachet of silica gel from the plastic bag it came in, and place in an airtight container with the capsules for 1 - 2 days.
If the capsules still do not fit, it could be because your silica gel sachet has become saturated. Silica gel can only absorb a limited amount of moisture before it becomes saturated.
To test the state of your silica gel, place the silica gel on a plate and place a transparent glass bowl over the silica gel. Microwave on high for one minute. If you see any moisture in the glass bowl, your silica gel needs to be rejuvenated.
To rejuvenate your silica gel sachet, place the sachet in a 120 - 150ºC oven for 45 - 60 minutes. Allow to cool, then place in an airtight container with the capsules. Allow 1 - 2 days for the capsules to dry.
To ensure you do not have any residue in the filler, wash the filler in warm soapy water. Do not use very hot or boiling water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry. Do not dry in an oven or with a hair dryer. Ensure that the filler is completely dry before using.

What is the difference between gelatin capsules and vegicaps.

Gelatin is by far the most popular material used to manufacture empty hard capsules. Our gelatin capsules are 100% beef gelatin, with no preservatives, no additives, no gluten and no GMO. They are also certified halal and kosher.

Vegicaps are preferred by vegetarians, vegans and those who choose not to consume anything derived from animals. Our vegicaps are 100% plant based, manufactured from natural materials. They are preservative-free, GMO-free, BSE free, gluten-free, as well as biodegradable. They are also certified halal and kosher.