Plant-based soft gels are rapidly gaining popularity in various industries. They offer a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional gelatin capsules. Unlike standard soft gels made from animal-derived gelatin, the key ingredients in these soft gels capsules are plant-based. Hence, their ingredients are sustainable and compatible with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles. 

The growing demand for environmentally friendly products has led industries to opt for vegan gelatin alternatives. Manufacturers seek ways to cater to dietary preferences while maintaining quality and effectiveness. In this guide, I explain the critical plant-based soft gel ingredients. 

Introduction to Plant-Based Softgel Ingredients

Alt: Tapioca Gel. 

Plant-based soft gels comprise veggie gelatin from natural plant sources such as starches (peas, cassava), seaweed, algae, and cellulose. Veggie gelatin offers the same encapsulation benefits as animal gelatin but without the ethical concerns. 

The soft gels also contain plant-based oils and extracts besides veggie gelatin. Coconut, hemp, and flaxseed are the most compatible and nutrient-rich oils for plant-based lifestyles. Algae extracts, high in omega-3 fatty acids, serve as a sustainable alternative to fish oil. The extracts are beneficial for heart health and cognitive benefits. 

Manufacturers use natural coloring and flavoring agents in vegan-friendly soft gels, making them visually appealing and more pleasant to consume. The soft gels align with the clean label movement by avoiding artificial additives and preservatives, a plus for health-conscious consumers.

Veggie Gelatin: The Foundation of Plant-Based Capsules

Veggie gelatin usually forms the foundation of gelatin alternative soft gels. It is the ideal material for creating soft gels that meet vegan and vegetarian standards without sacrificing performance. Veggie gelatin is flexible, transparent, and firm, making it ideal for encapsulating various liquids and semi-liquid supplements. 

I highlight some of the most common veggie gelatin. 

Seaweed

The most standard sources of seaweed are agar and carrageenan. Seaweed-derived substances are highly effective in forming gel-like structures, making them ideal for encapsulation. Due to its rich polysaccharide content, particularly alginate and carrageenan, seaweed is an important ingredient in plant-based soft gels. 

• Alginate: It is derived from brown seaweed and is widely used as a gelling and thickening agent. When mixed with calcium, alginate forms a strong gel, making it ideal for creating soft gel shells. Algae-based soft gels offer a stable, vegan-friendly alternative to gelatin and are ideal for encapsulating liquid supplements like oils and vitamins. 
• Carrageenan is derived from red seaweed and acts as a gelling and stabilizing agent. Manufacturers combine carrageenan with plant-derived encapsulation materials like starch to create soft, elastic capsule shells. Carrageenan soft gel capsules are highly stable in room temperatures and acidic environments, making them ideal for various supplements. 

Seaweed is a highly sustainable resource, rapidly growing in the ocean without freshwater or fertilizers. Apart from being environmentally conscious, seaweed provides nutritional benefits such as delivering trace minerals, iodine, and dietary fiber.

Starches

Cassava, peas, rice, potatoes, and corn are some of the most popular sources of starches for making soft gel capsules. They have the necessary elasticity and durability to make high-quality natural soft gel polymers. 

Starches can form a gel-like matrix that serves as the shell of the soft gel capsule. Combining starches with other gelling agents like pectin or carrageenan creates flexible and stable capsules that can effectively encapsulate various active ingredients. 

Starches are derived from non-GMO (Genetically Modified Starches) sources such as organic corn or tapioca. They are naturally gluten—and allergen-free, suitable for various dietary restrictions. Starches are widely available and cost-effective compared to plant-based alternatives such as Pullulan. 

Since starches are renewable and biodegradable, they support sustainability efforts. Hence, they appeal to conscious consumers and manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impact. 

Pullulan

Pullulan is a natural polysaccharide used in the formulation of plant-based soft gels. It is derived from the fermentation of starch. Pullulan is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegan and vegetarian soft gels. 

Pullulan creates a superior oxygen barrier compared to animal-based gelatin. The barrier helps to protect sensitive ingredients like Omega-3, probiotics, and essential oils for oxidation. Hence, pullulan-based soft gels are highly effective at preserving active ingredients for longer shelf-life. 

Pullulan soft gel capsules are known for their clear, glossy appearance, which appeals to consumers looking for a visually attractive product. The encapsulated contents are visible, which is important for consumers who prefer transparency. 

Manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impact can rely on Pullulan, which is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. With no inherent taste or color, Pullulan does not interfere with the flavor of the encapsulated ingredients, especially if they have a strong flavor. 

Cellulose

Manufacturers also use cellulose, a naturally occurring substance derived from plant fibers. Cellulose soft gels are also known as HPMC Capsules (Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose Capsules). They are an alternative to traditional animal-based gelatin capsules, particularly for consumers seeking non-animal product options. 

Wood pulp is one source of cellulose. HPMC capsules are more resistant to moisture and heat and are more accommodating for moisture-sensitive ingredients. They are also tasteless and odorless, allowing the consumer to taste the fill materials. 

Due to its stability and inert nature, cellulose is suitable for encapsulating various substances, including oils, granules, and powders. Cellulose is typically free from common allergens such as gluten or soy and does not contain genetically modified organisms(GMOs). 

Vegetable cellulose soft gels encapsulate medications, herbal supplements, vitamins, probiotics, and cosmetic products. 

Algae Extracts: A Sustainable Source for Omega-3

Alt: Sea Algae.

Algae extracts are a highly sustainable and effective source of omega-3 fatty acids. Traditionally, fish oil was the primary source. However, concerns over overfishing and environmental impact have led manufacturers to look for a more sustainable alternative. 

Omega-3 fatty acids contain DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), which are essential for maintaining heart, brain, and overall health. Fish obtain these nutrients from algae extracts, which they feed on. Hence, using algae extracts is going directly to the source and benefiting from purer, toxin-free nutrients. 

Algae extracts offer the following benefits. 

• Algae extracts can grow in controlled environments, reducing overfishing. They are a renewable source, and farming them does not compete with agricultural land or require pesticides, making them a more sustainable alternative. 
• Algae extracts are an ideal source of DHA and EPA for vegans, vegetarians, and individuals seeking to avoid fish or animal products. They offer the same benefits as fish oil regarding cardiovascular health and anti-inflammatory responses. 

Plant Oils and Extracts: Enhancing Nutrient Delivery

Alt: Hemp oil. 

Plant oils and extracts are derived from various plant sources. They provide essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds and serve as carriers for active ingredients. 

Plant oils enhance the bioavailability of fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamins A,D,E,and K. These nutrients dissolve in fats rather than water. Hence, using plant oils like hemp, coconut, sunflower, and flaxseed oils helps the body absorb them more efficiently. Increased absorption ensures the nutrients reach their intended target in the body. 

The plant oils have different benefits, as seen below. 

• Flaxseed oil is a popular choice for plant-based soft gels due to its high content of Omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed oil is specifically rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which supports heart health and reduces inflammation. 
• Hemp oil has a balanced ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, making it an ideal choice for promoting skin wellness and cardiovascular health. 
• Coconut oil: It is widely used to stabilize veggie soft gel structures. 

Plant extracts such as ginger and turmeric offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These extracts enhance the health benefits of soft gels, such as immune health, joint support, or digestive wellness. 

Natural Coloring and Flavoring Agents in Softgel Formulation

Natural coloring and flavoring agents enhance the visual appeal and taste without synthetic additives. More consumers are demanding clean-label products and natural ingredients in their products. These agents ensure that the soft gels remain attractive and enjoyable to consume. 

Manufacturers use plant-derived pigments to give a variety of appealing shades. For example, beetroot powder provides a deep red color, while turmeric provides a vibrant yellow. Natural dyes are safer alternatives to artificial food colorings, which often contain harmful chemicals. They are ideal for consumers seeking non-toxic, allergen-free products. 

Some manufacturers use flavoring agents to improve the taste of gelatin-free capsules. They add natural sweeteners such as stevia and fruit extracts from sources such as lemons or oranges. Flavoring agents are important for soft gels designed for children or those who might have difficulty swallowing capsules due to their taste. 

Because these natural colorings and flavoring agents are sourced from recognizable, whole-food ingredients, they meet the rising demand for transparency and ingredient purity. They offer a cleaner label and more attractive options for consumers focused on holistic wellness and sustainable living. 

Conclusion

Plant-based soft gels offer a sustainable and vegan-friendly solution. Key ingredients such as veggie gelatin, plant oils, seaweed extracts, and algae extract not only meet the demand for animal-free alternatives but also provide enhanced stability and oxygen barrier protection. 

Wuxi Hailis Biotech Co., Ltd specializes in delivering premium ingredients and formulations for high-quality, innovative plant-based encapsulation solutions. Contact us to learn how our plant-based soft gel technologies can meet your product development needs and support your brand’s growth in the plant-based market.