Our Softgel Manufacturing Services
We offer a range of softgel manufacturing and customization services based on your formulation, shell material, and intended method of consumption, helping brands develop products that meet their specific needs.
Gelatin Softgels
Manufactured using established gelatin softgel production processes, these softgels are suitable for fish oil, fat-soluble vitamins, and various oil-based formulations. We offer customization options for shell color, shape, size, and packaging to meet different brand requirements.
Plant-Based Softgels
Made with plant-derived modified starch shells instead of animal-based gelatin, these softgels are suitable for brands looking to develop plant-based products. Different sizes and appearance options are available depending on formulation requirements.
Chewable Softgels
Designed to be chewed rather than swallowed whole, these softgels focus on shell softness, texture, and flavor. Selected formulations can also be developed with plant-based shells, giving brands more options for product development.
Softgel Manufacturing Process
We offer a range of softgel manufacturing and customization services based on your formulation, shell material, and intended method of consumption, helping brands develop products that meet their specific needs.
STAGE 01 | Shell and Fill Preparation
- Shell Preparation
For gelatin and plant-based softgels, shell ingredients are combined with purified water, heated, and mixed in a gel melting tank to produce a uniform gel mass.
- Fill Preparation
Oil-based or suspension fills are weighed, mixed, and homogenized based on the product formulation.
STAGE 02 | Softgel Encapsulation
- Rotary Die Encapsulation
The prepared gel mass is formed into two gel ribbons, with the fill introduced between them. The rotary die machine forms, seals, and cuts the softgels.
- Process Parameter Control
Gel temperature, viscosity, ribbon thickness, and other process settings are adjusted to suit the shell material, fill weight, and die specifications.
STAGE 03 | Drying and Packaging
- Controlled Drying
The softgels first undergo tumble drying, followed by further drying under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. Moisture is gradually removed until the shells reach the required moisture content.
- Inspection and Packaging
Post-drying, softgels undergo visual checks and batch testing prior to final packaging.
Handian Softgel OEM/ODM Manufacturing Services
Handian provides softgel OEM/ODM manufacturing services for supplement brands. Our capabilities cover traditional gelatin softgels, plant-based softgels, and chewable softgels.
We assess the compatibility between fill ingredients and shell materials based on each product’s formulation. We also consider capsule weight, die specifications, and manufacturing requirements. Our services cover formulation development, sampling, bulk production, and packaging.
For projects requiring specific dosage forms, shapes, or appearances, our team can assess manufacturing feasibility based on our equipment and R&D capabilities.
Learn More About us
Developing a Softgel Product?
Tell us about your target ingredients, shell type, capsule specifications, and packaging needs. We’ll help you explore the right formulation and manufacturing options.
Why choose Handian as your softgel contract manufacturer?
Softgel Production Capacity & Manufacturing Technology
Handian currently operates 2 automated softgel production lines, manufacturing traditional gelatin softgels, plant-based softgels, and chewable softgels. Our expansion plan includes a total of 5 automated production lines, with a designed annual capacity of 2.5 billion softgels once all lines are completed.
Based on equipment design specifications, each production line has an estimated daily capacity of 1–3 million gelatin softgels or 500,000–2 million plant-based softgels. Actual output varies depending on shell materials, formulations, capsule weight, and product specifications.
Our facility is equipped with fully automatic high-speed servo softgel encapsulation machines and double-layer intelligent tumble dryers. The automated production process covers raw material preparation, gel preparation, encapsulation, drying, packaging, and quality inspection.
Production settings are adjusted to suit different shell materials and fill formulations. Key controls include gel temperature, fill uniformity, encapsulation parameters, and drying conditions to maintain consistent production and product specifications.
With automated equipment, process management, and quality testing, Handian supports supplement brands throughout formulation development, sampling, bulk production, and packaging.
2 Lines
Existing Automated Production Lines
5 Lines
Planned Automated Production Lines
2.5 Billion
Annual Production Capacity
Softgel Quality Assurance & Process Control
Handian maintains quality control throughout the softgel manufacturing process, from raw material inspection and in-process controls to finished product testing. Each stage follows the product formulation, quality specifications, and applicable requirements. Production records and batch management help ensure product traceability.
For softgel manufacturing, we focus on key quality factors such as shell-fill compatibility, capsule appearance, seal integrity, fill weight, and drying conditions. Through process monitoring and batch testing, we work to maintain consistent product quality.
Softgel Formulation R&D & Product Development
Handian’s R&D team supports softgel formulation development and sample production based on each customer’s product goals and formulation requirements. Our work covers shell material selection, shell-fill compatibility, capsule shape customization, and texture and flavor development for chewable softgels.
For plant-based softgels, we focus on shell forming properties, stability, and compatibility with fill ingredients. For chewable softgels, we also consider shell texture, flavor, and the overall chewing experience.
We work with various oils, fat-soluble nutrients, and suitable suspension-based fills. Our team evaluates formulation compatibility and manufacturing feasibility to help customers choose the right approach for their softgel products.
Choose the Right Packaging for Softgels
Packaging is more than just a product’s outer layer. It conveys customers’ expectations and trust in your product. Good packaging grabs consumers’ attention. It also helps them decide to buy and boosts their confidence. We provide various packaging options for your softgel. They will be safe and stand out in the market.
- Bottles
- Blister Packs
- Bulk Packaging
- Custom Labeling and Retail Packaging
Softgel Manufacturing Customization Options
In the process of customizing softgel capsules, we provide customers with a variety of options to meet different market needs and consumer preferences.
Color
A variety of color options are available. The softgels’ shell color can be customized to meet brand or product requirements.
Size
The size of the softgel can be customized according to the amount of content and the comfort of taking it.
Flavor
For softgel that need to be chewed or release the contents after chewing, we offer a variety of flavor options, such as fruit flavors.
Benefits of Softgels
As a mature dosage form, soft capsules have a high degree of recognition and acceptance among consumers, especially in the field of health products and pharmaceuticals. Major brands around the world widely use this form for a variety of nutritional supplements. Soft capsules are often considered a high-quality and efficient choice.
Storage Stability: Compared with liquids or powders, soft capsules are more stable under conventional storage conditions and are easy to store for a long time, reducing the need for special storage conditions.
Covering Odor and Taste: Many active ingredients may have unpleasant odors or tastes. Soft capsules can effectively seal these odors or tastes inside to prevent users from feeling uncomfortable when taking them.
Better Absorption Effect: Soft capsules can encapsulate oil-soluble and fat-soluble ingredients, such as vitamin D, vitamin E, fish oil, etc. These ingredients have higher solubility in oils and fats, and can be absorbed faster and more effectively after entering the human body, improving bioavailability.
Precise Dosage: Each softgel contains a precise dose, eliminating the uneven dosage issues that can occur in powder or liquid dosage forms.
Good Sealing: The shell of the soft capsule has good sealing, which can effectively isolate oxygen, light and moisture, protect the active ingredients inside from oxidation or degradation, and extend the shelf life of the product. The shelf life is longer than that of conventional pills, liquids and powders.
Explore Our Private Label Softgel
FAQ About softgel manufacturing
What is the minimum order quantity for softgels?
The minimum order quantity (MOQ) usually depends on the specific requirements and the complexity of the formulation. The common MOQ is 100,000 to 300,000 softgels per batch. Please contact us for details.
Are samples available?
Yes, we can provide samples of existing softgel products or custom formulations. It allows you to evaluate product quality, size and other factors before placing an order.
What is the production cycle for softgels?
The production cycle for softgels usually takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the formulation, the availability of raw materials and the production schedule. This includes the entire process from formulation development to manufacturing, testing and packaging.
What is the shelf life of softgels?
Softgels have a typical shelf life of 18 to 36 months, depending on the formulation and storage conditions. Storing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight helps maintain their stability and efficacy.
What are the typical bottle sizes for softgels?
Common sizes include 60-, 90-, 120- and 180-capsule bottles. Exact sizes can be customized based on your needs and product dosage regimen.
How do I choose the right softgel formula for my needs?
Choosing the right softgel formula involves considering a number of factors, such as the target market, desired health benefits, active ingredients, dosage form, and any specific dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, gluten-free). Our R&D team can work with you to develop a custom formula that meets your specific needs and market demands.
What types of packaging do you offer for softgels?
We offer a variety of softgel packaging options, including bottles, blister packs and strip packs. Each type can be customized to suit your brand and labeling requirements. We also offer eco-friendly and child-resistant packaging options.
Do you offer stock softgel formulas?
Yes, we offer a range of stock softgel formulations ready for production. These have been tested and proven in the market. They are an excellent choice for launching a product quickly.
Do you provide design services for softgels?
Yes, we provide a full design service including label and packaging design to match your brand. Our team can also assist with the design of the softgels themselves including colour, shape and any imprint or branding on the capsules.