The Animal Origins of Gelatin Capsules: Caution for Vegans & Vegetarians

"You take charge of your own health!" Most of us understand this statement. However, different individuals may approach better health in different ways. If you are one of the many, have you ever questioned how you make your nootropic choices?

For instance, do you focus on the nutrients inside? Or perhaps you choose based on the dosage form—such as capsules vs. tablets? Does it matter to you whether the nootropic is sourced from animals or plants?

With so many options available, some may not even pay attention to a tiny detail: what the capsule is made of.

How much do you really know about your favorite nootropic?

Capsules are viewed as one of the most efficient and common ways to deliver nutrients for nootropics. They work quickly and dissolve easily in your gut for better nutrient absorption.

But here's a surprising fact: Most of the gelatin in these capsules comes from heat-degraded collagen sourced from pigs and cows.*¹

This simple fact alone can be a big "No-no" for anyone with dietary or religious restrictions that prohibit consuming animal products. It's also a deal-breaker for vegans and vegetarians.

While gelatin capsules aren't directly harmful, they don't always meet 'clean label' standards.

How so? Because making gelatin capsules can be an ugly process. In fact, it completes the harsh cycle of factory farming by taking bones, stripped skin, and connective tissue from slaughterhouses and processing them—using acid, heat, and grinding—into a harmless-looking, tasteless powder.*

Luckily, vegetarian capsules are available as an alternative.

OK, so there IS an alternative. That's some good news, right? Indeed.

And, vegetarian capsules can offer some extra benefits beyond being a good replacement for gelatin capsules.*²

For example, their lower moisture content makes them more stable and less sensitive to humidity. They also avoid the cross-linking problems that can reduce solubility in gelatin capsules.*

Plus, vegetarian capsules are suitable for a wider range of fill materials, including those with aldehydic groups, which may not be compatible with gelatin.

The bad news? Animal-free substitutes for gelatin capsules—like those made from seaweed extract—can be very expensive.

Which is better?

If you don't have religious or dietary restrictions, you can opt for nootropics that use gelatin capsules because they typically cost less. However, if you're concerned about stability, solubility, or avoiding animal products, vegetarian capsules are the way to go.

At HCF®, our vegan capsules are a hallmark of our 7 Advances® principles.

We use vegan gellan gum in our compact Size 0 capsules, which are meticulously designed for easy swallowing and to meet specific dietary needs. This way, you can opt for a vegan and allergen-free alternative without compromising on your health or ethical standards.