Gelatin used specifically for capsule production undergoes partial hydrolysis to achieve certain molecular weights and physiochemical properties suitable for encapsulation. Manufacturers source the raw collagen from cattle bones, bovine hides, or porcine skins rather than from more complete animal breakdown during food harvesting.

Combining gelatins extracted from separate bovine and porcine tissues using different processes yields capsules with an ideal balance of rigidity, solubility, and low viscosity for shape retention and dosage delivery performance. Additional chemical markers also confirm raw material lot consistency for reliable gel properties.

Once encapsulated around powders, liquids, or drug compounds, these oral delivery vehicles shield sensitive contents from external humidity, oxygen, or stomach acids until intentionally dissolving post-swallowing. Gelatin's safety profile at consumed amounts enables the creation of suitable vegetarian or textured alternatives for individual needs. By leveraging collagen properties, capsule gelatin serves integral roles in quality drug encapsulation and complementary medicines.

Producing pharmaceutical-grade gelatin capsules requires extensive processing of animal collagen to achieve specific molecular properties optimal for encapsulation. Common raw sources include cow bones, cattle hides, and pig skins that undergo controlled hydrolysis and drying.

Precise formulation balances gelatin rigidity and solubility by blending extracts from different collagen types and tissues. This allows the creation of an inert shell with ideal viscosity, strength, and digestive characteristics to contain and shield sensitive fill materials.

Capsules are manufactured through dip molding gelatin films built up by layering and air drying or annealing between coats. Humidity controls prevent overdrying. Once formed, capsules encapsulate drug compounds, botanical powders, or liquids needing oral delivery protection until intentional dissolution.

While mainly used for convenient medicines and supplement dosing that avoids intravenous therapies, specialized gelatin capsules sometimes enable other routes like rectal delivery as suppositories. With sound underlying science guiding safe production techniques, versatile gelatin encapsulation continues advancing quality drug delivery options.