There are no known adverse reactions associated with HPMC capsules, and their composition is considered safe for consumption. This makes them an ideal choice for use in vegetarian and vegan diets.
Gelatin based products have been the most popular capsules in the world for over a century, but vegetarianism and sustainability are becoming increasingly important. Consequently, many consumers are shifting their preferences towards vegetable-based capsules such as HPMC.

The vegetable cellulose capsules are very similar in appearance and properties to gelatine capsules, but are manufactured from plant-derived materials. These are a natural alternative to traditional gelatine-based capsules, and provide health conscious consumers with an easy way to consume their favourite herbs, minerals or vitamins.

Stability: The moisture level of HPMC capsules is optimally kept between 4-8% (compared to gelatine shells which tend to be a little higher). This gives them the ability to hold liquid and oily fills, and protects moisture-sensitive content like probiotics better than gelatine shells.
Dissolution: Empty HPMC vegetable capsules disintegrate more quickly than gelatine empty capsules, usually in 15 minutes or less. This means that the powdered vitamin or mineral content can be absorbed more quickly in the stomach and intestines, helping to boost the absorption of nutrients.

Capsules coated with external lubricants, such as carnauba wax, sodium lauryl sulphate or magnesium stearate, are also beneficial in controlling and mitigating the electrostatic charge during capsule filling and delivering a lower Fine Particle Dose when compared to gelatine capsules. This can lead to improved product performance and increased patient compliance.