When you are selling supplements, one decision you have to make is whether to create tablets, softgels, or some other type of delivery system. Of course, you can offer customers multiple formats. Softgels vs tablets is a common debate among nutritionists, manufacturers, and consumers of medications and supplements. Let’s explore questions such as what are softgels, what are the pros and cons of softgels vs tablets, and what to look for in a softgel or tablet manufacturer.
What Are Softgels?
Softgels are a type of capsule consisting of a soft, pliable, digestible substance that covers an active nutrient or medication. The shell of a softgel is usually made from gelatin, which is derived from animal parts. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are also available, consisting of plant-based foods such as tapioca starch.
When considering softgels vs tablets, you also have to realize that there are more than one kind of capsule. In addition to softgels, there are also hardshell capsules. What are softgels compared to hardshell capsules? Hardshell capsules are also commonly made from gelatin, but in a harder form that forms a rigid shell consisting of two pieces that lock together. One of the main advantages of softgels is that the shell is absorbed more quickly, which means the substance can be activated in the body faster.
What Are Tablets?
Along with capsules, tablets are probably the most familiar form of medications and supplements. Tablets are made from powdered or granulated ingredients that are pressed together to form a rigid pill. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes. In addition to the active ingredients, tablets often contain additives to maintain a solid consistency. A tablet manufacturer may also add a coating, such as sugar or film. Some coatings are added to make the pill more digestible.
Softgels vs Tablets: Pros and Cons
When asking what are softgels or tablets, both customers and manufacturers are mainly concerned about learning the benefits and drawbacks of each. The following are the major pros and cons of softgels vs tablets.
Softgel Pros
• Easy to swallow. If you ask what are softgels’ main advantage, many would say that they’re much easier to swallow than tablets.
• Tasteless. The capsule masks unpleasant odors and flavors.
• Digestible. People who are prone to gastrointestinal issues often find capsules easier to digest.
Softgel Cons
• More complicated and expensive to make. The manufacturing process requires training and costly equipment. This cost must be passed on to consumers, who pay higher prices.
• Not compatible with all substances such as water-soluble materials.
• Softgels are highly sensitive to moisture and can be damaged if exposed to water.
• Most softgels are made from gelatin, which is not suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
• Manufacturers can create vegan softgels, but the cost is higher.
Tablet Pros
• A tablet manufacturer can create tablets in many sizes to accommodate the required materials and dosage.
• Tablets are cheaper and simpler to manufactur than capsules.
• A tablet manufacturer can produce tablets in chewable form, which some consumers prefer.
• Tablets can be broken into multiple doses.
Tablet Cons
• More difficult for some users to swallow. A tablet manufacturer can make smaller tablets that are easier to swallow, but this isn’t always possible for all materials and doses.
• People may have sensitivity to coatings.
• Aren’t always as digestible as capsules.
Softgels vs Tablets: What’s The Better Choice?
There’s no definitive answer to the softgels vs tablets debate. It’s important to ask, what are softgels and tablets’ advantages and drawbacks? The answer is that it depends on what type of supplements you’re creating as well as the preferences of your customers. Ideally, you may want to offer both options and possibly other formats as well such as liquids. If you are using the services of a softgel or tablet manufacturer, you can research the options and costs of each. When it comes to softgels vs tablets, you need to find the solution that works best for you.
NutraPak USA manufactures many quality supplements in tablet, softgel, and other forms. We offer a full line of services, such as private labeling, warehousing, and order fulfillment. For more information, contact us.