The market for non-gelatin empty capsules is projected to expand from US$ 2.33 billion in 2022 to US$ 4.64 billion by 2030, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.0% during the period from 2022 to 2030.

The anticipated growth in this market can be attributed to the increasing adoption of HPMC (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose) empty capsules within the pharmaceutical sector and the rapidly growing nutraceutical industry. Additionally, a heightened emphasis on sustainable packaging solutions is expected to create further opportunities for the non-gelatin empty capsules market. However, challenges such as limited consumer awareness and the relatively high costs associated with non-gelatin empty capsules may impede market expansion.

Non-gelatin empty capsules serve as a popular alternative to traditional gelatin capsules in both the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors. These capsules are derived from plant cellulose or starch derivatives, making them suitable for individuals with dietary restrictions or those adhering to religious practices that prohibit gelatin consumption.

In 2022, North America held a significant share of the global non-gelatin empty capsules market. This region's market is divided into the United States, Canada, and Mexico. A key driver of market growth in North America is the increasing acceptance of vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, which has led to a rising demand for herbal alternatives across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements. Non-gelatin empty capsules are particularly favored for encapsulating nutraceuticals and dietary supplements, as they provide an effective and convenient method for delivering active ingredients to consumers. The United States has a well-established nutraceutical market, with popular dietary supplements including multivitamins, calcium and vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. The aging population in the U.S. is increasingly focused on healthy aging, which further drives the demand for dietary supplements aimed at preventing age-related health issues, positively influencing the non-gelatin empty capsules market in North America.

Growing Emphasis on Sustainable Packaging to Create Future Market Opportunities

As concerns regarding plastic waste and environmental sustainability continue to rise, both consumers and regulators are actively pursuing eco-friendly packaging solutions. Non-gelatin capsules, being plant-based and biodegradable, align well with these sustainability goals. As consumer awareness of environmental issues increases, there is a growing preference for products that reflect sustainable values, which is expected to propel the non-gelatin empty capsule market forward. Furthermore, companies that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability are likely to enjoy enhanced customer loyalty and market share. Consequently, evolving consumer preferences and stricter regulatory frameworks are anticipated to drive the adoption of non-gelatin empty capsules, thereby fostering growth in the global market.

Insights Based on Type

The non-gelatin empty capsules market is categorized by type into HPMC capsules and pullulan capsules. In 2022, the HPMC capsules segment dominated the market share. However, the pullulan capsules segment is projected to experience a higher CAGR of 9.9% from 2022 to 2030.

Insights Based on Application

From an application perspective, the non-gelatin empty capsules market is segmented into antibiotic and antibacterial drugs, vitamins and dietary supplements, antacids and antiflatulent preparations, among others. The antibiotic and antibacterial drugs segment held the largest market share in 2022, while the vitamins and dietary supplements segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 9.9% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for therapeutic drugs and nutritional supplements aimed at improving health outcomes is likely to drive growth in this segment. Non-gelatin capsules are utilized for encapsulating medicinal drugs and nutritional supplements in the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring accurate dosage and controlled release. In the supplement sector, these capsules are used to encapsulate vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts for easier consumption. Additionally, non-gelatin capsules are employed in the cosmetics industry to encapsulate skincare ingredients, facilitating targeted delivery and enhancing effectiveness.

Insights Based on End User

The market is segmented by end user into pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetics, and research laboratories. The pharmaceutical segment accounted for the largest share of the non-gelatin empty capsules market in 2022 and is expected to register the highest CAGR of 9.4% from 2022 to 2030.

Leading companies in the market are adopting various strategies, including expansion, partnerships, new product launches, and customer base acquisitions to capitalize on existing business opportunities. For instance, in July 2022, Sunil Healthcare Limited reported a 25.0% increase in export revenue for FY2022, reflecting improved profitability and operating margins from HPMC capsules. In June 2020, Lonza launched DBcaps (double-blind capsules), an innovative HPMC capsule designed to address challenges faced during clinical trials.

The non-gelatin empty capsules market report is based on data from primary and secondary sources, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Global Burden of Disease Study.