What Are Gelatin Capsules Made Of?
Gelatin is an ingredient used to make capsules for prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as vitamins and nutritional supplements. People with allergies or dietary restrictions need to know what they are made of for their health or well-being.
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Identification
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A soft gelatin capsule with an identification number on it. The National Institutes of Health Dietary Supplements page defines a capsule as a gelatin shell containing a dose of medicine, a vitamin, or other dietary supplement. It is usually oval, colored, and semi-clear. All prescription drugs are identified and reported using a unique, three-segment number, called the National Drug Code (NDC).
Significance
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A glass of milk, which is dairy. Vegetarians and vegans do not eat meat; vegans do not consume any dairy. Observant Jews follow the laws of "kashrut" or "keeping kosher", which requires them to separate meat and dairy.
For these categories of people and others, it is important to know exactly what they are consuming in their medication.
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Types
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A pig with a number tag in its ear. The International Vegetarian Union FAQ says that gelatin is made from the boiled bones, skins, and tendons of animals. An alternative substance is called Agar-Agar, which is derived from seaweed. Another is made from the root of the Kuzu plant.
Prevention/Solution
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Three pills showing their National Drug Code. Those wishing to avoid gelatin should avoid both hard and soft capsules in favor of traditional pills. They can look for the ingredient rennet, which is generally considered vegetarian, according to the International Vegetarian Union.
Fun Facts
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An advertisement for a kosher for Passover beverage. OUKosher.org says that while kosher gelatin exists, gelatin made from beef skins or bones is not kosher. Likewise, Halalgelatine.com specifies that gelatin or gelatine from pigs is not Halal, and gelatin from beef may not be, so it should be avoided.
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References
Resources
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