Global Flavored Empty Capsule Market Outlook from 2024 to 2034

Taking convenience to a whole new level, flavored empty capsules are becoming a suitable choice for several medications and supplements, with their demand set to rise at 6.7% CAGR through 2034. This exciting innovation is making taking medications and supplements more pleasant and convenient.

According to Future Market Insights’ latest report, the global flavored empty capsule market size is estimated to increase from USD 349.1 million in 2024 to USD 667.7 million by 2034. The market was valued at USD 328.9 million at the end of 2023 and is forecast to exhibit Y-o-Y growth of 6.1 % in 2024.

Market Forecast for Flavored Empty Capsules

Attribute Key Insights
Base Market Value in 2023 USD 328.9 million
Market Size in 2024 USD 349.1 million
Flavored Empty Capsule Industry Value in 2034 USD 667.7 million
Value CAGR (2024 to 2034) 6.7%

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Market Dynamics Influencing Flavored Empty Capsule Sales

Flavored empty capsules, including type-A gelatin, type-B gelatin, and fish bone gelatin, are growing in demand due to their high usage in pharmaceutical and dietary supplement sectors. They mask the unpleasant taste of medications and supplements with pleasing ones like mint and strawberry, thereby making them easier to swallow.

Several pharmaceutical companies are using flavored empty capsules to make medications more palatable. This can help to increase compliance with treatment regimens. Flavored capsules are becoming popular, especially among people who have negative association with taking medication.

Nutraceutical industry is an important segment of healthcare sector, and with the growing health awareness among consumers, it is experiencing significant growth. This, in turn, will create new growth opportunities for flavored capsule manufacturers.

The nutraceutical sector is characterized by a plethora of players such as MNCs, healthcare start-ups, herbal players, and niche Ayurveda, among others. This dynamic competitive scenario has led to adoption of various strategies, including usage of flavored capsules, by these companies to build authority and solidify their market presence.

Several companies use flavored capsules to make their products more appealing and increase their brand value. Consumers nowadays appreciate customization, resulting in more and more nutraceutical manufacturers using novel solutions like flavored capsules.

Historical Outlook Vs Future Flavored Empty Capsule Market Forecast

Global sales of flavored empty capsules recorded a CAGR of 5.1% during the historical period, with total market valuation reaching USD 328.9 million in 2023. Over the next decade, a CAGR of 6.7% has been estimated for the global market, indicating a 1.6% increase from the historical growth rate.

Multiple factors are stimulating growth of the flavored capsule industry. These include high prevalence of chronic diseases, escalating demand for more palatable medications, and growing popularity of dietary supplements and nutraceuticals.

Changing lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits are resulting in surging cases of chronic diseases like digestive issues, diabetes, and obesity. This, in turn, is set to create a greater need for medications, and capsules offer a convenient and easier-to-swallow form.

Giving medications to children can be challenging if it has discouraging taste and smell. On the other hand, if the medicines are presented with a sweet taste and pleasant aroma, the kids are more readily compliant with the medication. This is prompting pharmaceutical companies to use flavored capsules.

Patients diagnosed with autism are susceptible to medical refusal, or they may require multiple swallowing attempts when taking medication. Flavored capsules address this by masking unpleasant tastes and odors, increasing palatability, and reducing anxiety associated with medication intake.

Flavored capsules are available in multiple flavors such as lemon, strawberry, mint, orange, and so on. Adoption of these capsules allows pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries to offer improved patient compliance with medication and supplements.

With animals also medication administration can be a difficult task. However, flavored capsules with flavor of chicken, beef, bacon, etc., can simplify this task. Thus, growing focus on pediatric patient care and veterinary medicine will boost market growth through 2034.

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Key Opportunities for Flavored Empty Capsule Manufacturers

There has been a global shift toward vegan products in recent years. According to the Vegan Society, the global vegan population grew significantly during the last few years, and the trend is set to continue its momentum during the forecast period.

Consumers' escalating preference for vegan products and subsequent adoption of vegan standards by businesses are anticipated to create new growth prospects for the market. Manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by developing innovative plant-based capsules that appeal to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

By introducing plant-based alternatives such as HPMC and modified starch, companies can tap into this developing market segment and offer a broader range of options to consumers seeking vegan-friendly alternatives. Hence, vegan and plant-based alternatives present a significant opportunity for the growth of the flavored empty capsule market.

Factors Limiting Flavored Empty Capsule Market Growth

The primary raw material for the flavored empty capsule is gelatin, which is subjected to constant price change. Numerous factors influence the price of gelatin. The cost of raw materials, such as bovine hide, bone, pork skin, poultry skin, etc., contributes to a substantial production cost of gelatin.

Variations in the cost of this raw material will directly impact the market price of gelatin. Regulatory changes regarding cattle slaughter and guidelines on farming practices can affect gelatin's supply chain and production cost.

Global events can also impact the gelatin cost by affecting the supply chain. Events like disease outbreaks in livestock, trade disruptions, geopolitical conflicts, and natural disasters can disrupt the supply chain. Since the price of gelatin is affected by a multitude of factors, the market growth of flavored capsules is jeopardized.

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Country-wise Insights

The below section provides future growth rates of the top countries. France, Italy, and Canada are believed to record higher CAGRs of 7.7%, 6.0%, and 5.6%, respectively, through 2034. This can be attributed to booming pharmaceutical industry and surging demand for dietary supplements in these nations.

Market Growth Outlook by Key Countries

Countries Value CAGR
United States 4.8%
Canada 5.6%
Germany 4.3%
Italy 6.0%
France 7.7%

Booming Pharmaceutical Industry Boosting Sales Growth in the United States

When it comes to pharmaceutical production, the United States leads from the forefront. It has a well-established pharmaceutical industry, which is creating lucrative growth prospects for flavored capsule manufacturers.

Consumers in the United States are very health conscious, leading to increased consumption of nutraceutical supplements, predominantly available in capsule form. Supplement manufacturers in the nation are focusing on improving the taste to improve consumer experience. This is prompting them to use flavored capsules.

Many United States-based players are introducing capsules with different flavors. This provides an array of options for nutraceutical companies, further contributing to the growth of flavored empty capsule market in the United States.

Growth in the United States will also be fueled by its proactive adoption of biosimilars. The nation has a strong focus on good manufacturing practices (GMP) and stringent quality standards.

Favorable government support and rise in pharmaceutical exports will also positively impact flavored empty capsule sales in the United States. Courtesy of these factors, Future Market Insights estimates the United States market to advance at 4.8% CAGR through 2034.

Canada to Present Lucrative Growth Opportunities to Manufacturers

Canada flavored empty capsule industry is predicted to grow at 5.6% CAGR throughout the assessment period, creating lucrative opportunities for manufacturers. This is attributable to growing consumer preference for more palatable options for taking supplements and medications.

Medication demand is increasing significantly across Canada due to the spike in chronic disease cases. This is also pushing the need for an appealing and simple dosage form. Flavored empty capsules help mask the taste of medicinal drugs, making them extra palatable for consumers.

Plant-based and natural raw material trends have influenced the marketplace, with innovations like plant-based capsules gaining immense popularity. Moreover, improvements in capsule technology, including tablet-in-pill structures, have enhanced the functionality and appeal of flavored capsules, contributing to their increase within the Canadian market.

Category-wise Insights

The section below sheds some light on top segments and their anticipated growth rates. Companies can use this information to invest in popular products and forms to solidify their positions in the global industry.

Based on product, type-B gelatin segment accounted for a revenue share of 35.0% in 2023 and is set to grow at 7.1% CAGR through 2034. By end user, pharmaceutical companies held a market share of 47.0 % in 2023.

Type-B Gelatin Capsules Remain Top Selling Products

Market Growth Outlook by Product

Product Value CAGR
Type-A Gelatin 5.2%
Type-B Gelatin 7.1%
Fish Bone Gelatin 6.2%

As per the latest analysis, type-B gelatin capsules will continue to remain top-selling products in the market, increasing at 7.1% CAGR. This can be attributed to rising usage of type-B gelatin capsules in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries to deliver medications, dietary supplements, and other ingestible products.

Type-B gelatin capsules are derived from porcine or bovine animals. They are relatively cost-effective due to the easy availability of raw materials. This affordability has made them an attractive choice for manufacturers.

Type-B gelatin capsules are used across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food, and cosmetics. Their versatility, compatibility, and masking properties contribute to their dominance.

The pharmaceutical industry is growing significantly, leading to higher demand for type-B gelatin flavored capsules. Thus, cost-effectiveness and other advantages of type-B capsules will continue to fuel their popularity globally.

Pharmaceutical Companies Remain Prominent End Users

Market Growth Outlook by End User

End User Value CAGR
Pharmaceutical Companies 5.7%
Cosmetic & Nutraceutical Companies 7.3%
Clinical Research Organizations(CRO’s) 4.9%

Pharmaceutical companies remain the leading users of flavored capsules, holding a market share of 47.0% in 2023. Over the next ten years, the target segment is forecast to advance at 5.7% CAGR.

The dominance of the target segment is attributed to the critical role of pharmaceutical companies in addressing the medical requirements of the growing patient population. Pharmaceutical companies use flavored capsules for many drugs due to their improved bioavailability and patient compliance.

Capsules, especially flavored ones, are becoming highly popular in the pharmaceutical sector. They are fast acting, tasteless, tamper resistant, and provide higher bioavailability. As medication production by pharmaceutical companies continues to increase rapidly, so will the demand for flavored empty capsules.

The global burden of chronic diseases has been constantly growing over the past decades. For instance, conditions like cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and respiratory disease contributed to 75% of global deaths in 2010, which increased to 79% in 2020. By 2034, this percentage is estimated to increase as much as 84%.

High prevalence of chronic diseases will generate a greater demand for pharmaceuticals, including capsules. This, in turn, will positively impact sales of flavored empty capsules during the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape in Flavored Empty Capsule Market

Innovation is becoming a key success tool for leading manufacturers of flavored empty capsules. They want to create and offer new, exciting, and innovative flavors beyond basic options like mint and vanilla to woo more and more customers. Players are also focusing on developing capsules with functional flavors and bio-based materials.

Many companies strongly emphasize building a resilient supply chain to tackle challenging periods like COVID-19. They also employ strategies like distribution agreements, new facility establishments, mergers, collaborations, acquisitions, and mergers to stay ahead of the competition.

Recent Developments:

  • In October 2021, India-based Sunil Healthcare Limited confirmed the expansion of production capacity of empty hard capsule shells from 13.8 billion to 15 billion (approx.) p.a during the financial year of 2021 to 2022.
  • In February 2020, CapsCanada, a well-known supplier of empty capsules used in the production of pharmaceuticals and dietary supplements, reassured its clients that the coronavirus outbreak had no impact on its supply chain or products.

Key Coverage in Global Flavored Empty Capsule Market Research Report

  • Popular Market Penetration Strategies for Pharmaceutical Packaging Manufacturers
  • Market Research on Flavoring Techniques and Technologies in Capsule Manufacturing
  • Regional Analysis of Pharmaceutical Packaging Market
  • Growth Prospects for Pharmaceutical manufacturing Sector in India and other Developing Nations
  • Market Analysis of Distribution Channels for Pharmaceutical Packaging Products
  • Impact of Pharmaceutical Industry Trends on Flavored Empty Capsules Market
  • Empty Capsules Market Competitive Analysis
  • Market Perception of Taste Masking and Patient Compliance with Flavored Capsules
  • Growth Prospect for Flavored Empty Capsules Market in India
  • Market Share of Flavored Empty Capsule Manufacturers
  • Top Capsule Manufacturing Sector Trends
  • Market Segmentation of Pharmaceutical Packaging
  • Leading Empty Capsule Suppliers
  • Emerging Opportunities in Flavored Empty Capsules Sector
  • Market Trends Driving Innovation in Flavored Empty Capsule Designs and Flavors

Report Scope

Attribute Details
Market Size in 2024 USD 349.1 million
Market Value in 2034 USD 667.7 million
Growth Rate (2024 to 2034) 6.7% CAGR
Forecast Period 2024 to 2034
Historical Data Available for 2019 to 2023
Market Analysis USD Million for Value, Units for Volume
Key Regions Covered North America; Latin America; East Asia; South Asia & Pacific; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; Central Asia; Russia & Belarus; Balkan & Baltic Countries; Middle East & Africa
Key Countries Covered United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, China, Japan, South Korea, Germany, France, Spain, Italy, BENELUX, Nordic Countries, United Kingdom, BENELUX, Poland, Hungary, Romania, India, ASEAN Countries, Australia & New Zealand, GCC Countries, South Africa, Türkiye, and Other African Union
Key Market Segments Covered Product, Flavor, Size, End User, Regions
Key Companies Profiled Capsuline; Farmacapsulas; CapsCanada Corporation; Sunil Healthcare Ltd.; Medi-Caps Ltd.; Buenatech
Report Coverage Market Forecast, Competition Intelligence, DROT Analysis, Market Dynamics and Challenges, Strategic Growth Initiatives

Flavored Empty Capsule Market Segmentation

By Product:

  • Type-A Gelatin
  • Type-B Gelatin
  • Fish Bone Gelatin

By Flavor:

  • Flavor for Human
    • Lemon
    • Mint
    • Orange
    • Grape
    • Coffee
    • Strawberry
    • Others
  • Flavor for Pets
    • Chicken
    • Bacon
    • Beef

By Size:

  • Size "000" Capsules
  • Size "00" Capsules
  • Size "0" Capsules
  • Size "1" Capsules
  • Size "2" Capsules
  • Size "3" Capsules
  • Size "4" Capsules
  • Size "5" Capsules

By End User:

  • Pharmaceutical Companies
  • Cosmetic & Nutraceutical Companies
  • Clinical Research Organizations(CRO’s)

By Region:

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • East Asia
  • South Asia & Pacific
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe
  • Middle East & Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is the flavored empty capsule market?

The global market is estimated to be valued at USD 349.1 million in 2024.

What is the projected market size for 2034?

By 2034, the global market size is set to reach USD 667.7 million.

What is the demand outlook for flavored empty capsules?

Global demand is predicted to surge at 6.7% CAGR through 2034.

What was the historical CAGR for the global market?

The global market grew at a 5.1% CAGR from 2019 to 2023.

Which product segment leads the market?

Type-B gelatin capsules segment dominated the market with a share of 35.0% in 2023.

What is the United States market outlook?

The United States is poised to record a CAGR of 4.8% through 2034.

Which company makes capsule shells in India?

HEALTHCAPS INDIA Limited is a key manufacturer of hard gelatin capsules in India.

Are vegan capsules safe?

Yes, vegan capsules are safe.

Table of Content
	1. Executive Summary
	2. Market Overview
	3. Key Market Trends
	4. Value-Added Insights
	5. Market Background
	6. Global Market Demand Volume (Units) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast, 2024 to 2034
	7. Global Market - Pricing Analysis
	8. Global Market Demand (in Value or Size in USD million) Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast, 2024 to 2034
	9. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Product
		9.1. Type-A Gelatin
		9.2. Type-B Gelatin
		9.3. Fish Bone Gelatin
	10. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Flavor
		10.1. Flavor for Human
			10.1.1. Lemon
			10.1.2. Mint
			10.1.3. Orange
			10.1.4. Grape
			10.1.5. Coffee
			10.1.6. Strawberry
			10.1.7. Others
		10.2. Flavor for Pets
			10.2.1. Chicken
			10.2.2. Bacon
			10.2.3. Beef
	11. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Size
		11.1. Size "000" Capsules
		11.2. Size "00" Capsules
		11.3. Size "0" Capsules
		11.4. Size "1" Capsules
		11.5. Size "2" Capsules
		11.6. Size "3" Capsules
		11.7. Size "4" Capsules
		11.8. Size "5" Capsules
	12. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By End User
		12.1. Pharmaceutical Companies
		12.2. Cosmetic & Nutraceutical Companies
		12.3. Clinical Research Organizations (CRO’s)
	13. Global Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region
		13.1. North America
		13.2. Latin America
		13.3. East Asia
		13.4. South Asia & Pacific
		13.5. Western Europe
		13.6. Eastern Europe
		13.7. Middle East & Africa
	14. North America Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	15. Latin America Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	16. East Asia Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	17. South Asia & Pacific Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	18. Western Europe Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	19. Eastern Europe Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	20. Middle East & Africa Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034
	21. Market Structure Analysis
	22. Competition Analysis
		22.1. Capsuline
		22.2. Farmacapsulas
		22.3. CapsCanada Corporation
		22.4. Sunil Healthcare Ltd.
		22.5. Buenatech
		22.6. Medi-Caps Ltd.
	23. Assumptions and Acronyms Used
	24. Research Methodology
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