How to identify gelatin and hpmc capsules?

Gelatin Capsules vs HPMC Plant Capsules: A Practical Identification Guide

I. Direct Visual Observation

• Examine Seams

Gelatin Capsules: Have obvious horizontal seams (marks of two shell segments fitting together)
HPMC Plant Capsules: Seamless, one-piece molding (like a smooth little test tube)

• Examine Texture by Holding it Up to the Light

Hold the capsule up to the light:
Gelatin Capsules appear yellowish when held up to the light (the base color of animal-derived ingredients)
HPMC Capsules appear pure white or grayish-white when held up to the light (the natural color of plant fibers)

II. Simple Hands-on Tests

• Warm Water Immersion Method

In a cup of 40℃ warm water (slightly hot to the touch):
Gelatin Capsules: Soften and deform within 5 minutes
HPMC Capsules: Maintain shape after 15 minutes (only the outer layer becomes gel-like)

• Dryness Test

Place near a desiccant for 1 hour:
Gelatin Capsules become brittle and easily broken (highly hygroscopic)
HPMC Capsules remain unchanged in hardness (good moisture resistance)

III. Key Labels on Outer Packaging

• Gelatin Capsule Packaging:

Ingredient list includes "Gelatin" (may contain...) "Animal-derived" (small print)

• HPMC Plant-Based Capsule Packaging:

Prominently labeled "Vegetarian Capsule" Certification Marks: Vegan, Halal, Non-GMO

IV. Identification in Special Scenarios

• Opening the Capsule to Examine the Contents (Avoid this unless absolutely necessary):

Gelatin shell: Oily and reflective inside (Animal fat residue)
HPMC shell: Matte and dry inside (Plant cellulose texture)

• Burning Test (Use with caution):

Gelatin burns black and has a burnt smell (similar to burning hair)
HPMC burns grayish-white and odorless (like burning paper)