Softgel Capsule Market

The Softgel Capsule Market is valued at USD 7.4  Bn in 2026 and is projected to reach USD 11.4  Bn,  growing at a CAGR of 6% by 2033.

Plant-based Capsules to Witness an Upsurge in Softgel Capsule Market

The demand for softgel capsules has witnessed an increasing trend since the past few years on the back of its functional benefits. Advantages such as improved absorption ease in swallowing, enhanced bioavailability, high atmospheric stability, and taste and odour masking have fuelled the use of softgel capsules. Moreover, advances in production technology coupled with adoption of new materials have further evolved the development of softgel capsules by integrating tamperproof features in addition to an extended shelf-life, and appealing aesthetics. One such development includes the manufacturing of plant-based softgel capsules that are made from natural sources and are free from animal derivatives, and gluten. Vegetarian softgel capsules or cellulose based capsules being free from animal by-products can be consumed by individuals that prefer plant-based products over animal products. This will be an important factor upholding the expansion of softgel capsule market. In addition, vegetarian softgel capsules show a high degree of absorption, stability, and bioavailability and dissolve better in water at room temperatures. Furthermore, vegetarian softgel capsules do not have side effects or health risks even after long term consumption being completely natural. This factor has fuelled the adoption of plant-based or vegetarian sources in the manufacturing of capsules, consequently aiding the growth of the softgel capsule market.

Gelatin Capsules to Largely Contribute Toward Revenue Growth of Softgel Capsule Market

Albeit non-animal or vegetarian softgel capsules are witnessing momentous increase in demand, the sale of their gelatin counterparts is likely to remain a step ahead. Since past few decades, gelatin has been a widely used excipient due to its several advantages. With increasing investments in research and development, gelatin softgel capsules come with high tamper resistance, enhanced mechanical resistance, high seal quality, and are inert. In addition, they are highly patient compliant and facilitate effective and easy digestion. Additionally, the clean label trend has also transformed the gelatin space as these capsules come with a clean label, which complements their acceptance. These benefits were instrumental in driving the sales of gelatin capsules and will continue to influence their value share in the softgel capsule market in the forthcoming years.

North America Likely to Remain at the Forefront, Accounts for a Major Share in Softgel Capsule Market

Developed nations in North America region are expected to reflect high growth potential with regards to use of softgel capsules. The softgel capsule market witnessed significant growth in the region in since the past few years and is expected to maintain status quo going forward. This is mainly attributed towards increasing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases in the region impacting both millennials and the geriatric population. For instance, according to the 2021 report of American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is considered as one of the major causes of mortalities in the United States apart from cancer. This has resulted in the user of softgel capsules in turn paving a potential growth pathway for manufacturers. Moreover, presence of major players, rising expenditure on research and development, availability of advanced production technologies and favourable infrastructure are macro factors influencing the growth of the softgel capsule market in the region.

In addition, softgel capsule market remains influenced by growing collaborations and alliances in North America. For instance, in 2020, US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) gave approval for Strides Pharma Science Limited’s Loratadine softgel capsules. These softgel capsules are used for the treatment of runny nose, itching, sneezing due to hay fever and itching along with other allergies. Similarly, in 2021, a multiyear agreement was signed between Aurinia Pharmaceuticals, and Catalent for the commercial distribution of LUPKYNIS softgel capsules in the United States. On the other hand, acquisitions also played a vital role in bolstering growth of the softgel capsule market in North America. For instance, in 2020, Tetra Bio-Pharma Inc. acquired the Canadian exclusive rights for the Dronabinol softgel capsule. With this right acquisition, Tetra was able to establish a direct and an immediate commercial presence in the country by marketing its prescription drugs. These aspects have complemented the growth of the market in the region, making it an attractive revenue pocket for softgel capsule manufacturers.

Softgel Capsule Market: Competitive Landscape

Heavy investments in collaborations, and new product launches by key players were witnessed in the softgel capsule market. A few of the major players in global softgel capsule market include 

• Catalent, Inc.
• Lonza Group AG / Capsugel
• Aenova Group
• Sirio Pharma Co., Ltd.
• Procaps Group / Softigel
• EuroCaps Ltd.
• CAPTEK Softgel International, Inc.
• Fuji Capsule Co., Ltd.
• Patheon / Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
• Soft Gel Technologies, Inc.
• Robinson Pharma, Inc.
• Strides Pharma Science Limited
• Suheung Co., Ltd.
• MEDGEL Co., Ltd.
• Best Formulations

Recent Notable Developments

• In March 2021, a collaboration between Roquette and Delpharm Evreux was signed. With this collaboration, Delpharm aims to leverage Roquette’s plant-based shell technology to develop new softgel capsules

• In February 2022, two softgel capsules, Zylem 5:5 softgel capsule and Zylem 1:20 softgel capsule were launched by ZYUS Life Sciences in Canada

• In May 2022, Windzor Pharma Ltd. announced the launch of Rx Vitamin D3 based Solferol softgel capsule. This softgel capsule was launched in the Irish market and is a low cost vitamin D3 capsule

Global Softgel Capsule Market Segmentation is Described Below:

By Material Type

• Gelatin
• Other Materials

By Source

• Porcine
• Bovine
• Others

By Application

• Pharmaceuticals
• Nutraceutical and Dietary Supplements
• Cosmetics & Personal Care

By Region

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific (APAC)
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa