The United States has the most mature and demanding nutraceutical market in the world, with annual spending on dietary supplements surpassing $50 billion. However, US distributors face three major challenges that hinder growth—all of which EEK has developed specific solutions to address. In the high-stakes world of American pharmaceutical and nutraceutical manufacturing, the supply chain serves as the backbone of the business. For US-based distributors and private-label brands, the ability to reliably source high-quality components can be the key to capturing market share and preventing costly stock-outs.
As domestic manufacturing overhead costs continue to rise—caused by labor shortages, rising energy expenses, and increased real estate prices—the effort to find a reliable Chinese empty capsule supplier has become a strategic priority for those aiming to preserve competitive margins without sacrificing safety or efficacy.
Navigating the world of international procurement for empty capsules—specifically HPMC capsules, gelatin capsules, and pullulan capsules—requires a solid understanding of regulatory compliance, manufacturing precision, and global logistics.
For 30 years, EEK has led the way in solving these challenges, growing from a regional manufacturer in China to a global leader. This comprehensive guide explains why EEK is a trusted partner in building a resilient, high-capacity supply chain—backed by unmatched expertise, fully customizable products, and unwavering quality.
1. EEK: 30 Years of Excellence in Global Capsule Manufacturing
Since its founding in 1992, EEK has expanded from a small manufacturing facility in Zhejiang Province, China, to one of the world’s largest producers of hard empty capsules. Our 30-year journey is characterized by a relentless focus on innovation, compliance, and customer focus—values that have helped us withstand global economic cycles, regulatory changes, and industry disruptions while maintaining a 98% customer retention rate.
1.1 Our Journey: From Local Pioneer to Global Leader
- 1992–1999: Foundational Growth: EEK was founded during China’s industrialization boom, with a mission to revolutionize capsule manufacturing by focusing on quality over quantity. We launched our first gelatin capsule line, using imported equipment to ensure consistent batches.
- 2000–2009: Expanding Product Portfolio: Recognizing the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives in Western markets, we invested in R&D to develop HPMC (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose) capsules, becoming one of China’s first manufacturers to offer vegetarian-friendly options.
- 2010–2019: Global Expansion & US Market Entry: To better serve US distributors, we set up our first overseas warehouse in California, USA. We also achieved FDA registration and GMP certification, strengthening our compliance with US regulations.
- 2020–Present: Innovation & Localization: We introduced liquid-filled hard capsules with HPMC banding technology and expanded our pullulan capsule line—aligning with the US “clean label” trend.
1.2 Core Strengths: What Sets Us Apart
- Unmatched Industry Experience: 30 years in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors means we’ve perfected every part of capsule production—from sourcing raw materials to ensuring machine compatibility. Our extensive knowledge helps us anticipate US distributor needs and address issues before they happen.
- Global Scale with Local Support: With an annual production capacity of 70 billion capsules, we can meet even the largest US distributor’s volume needs, up to 100 million capsules per month.
1.3 Global Distribution Network: Serving 50+ Countries
EEK’s reach extends far beyond the US, with a global distribution network that includes:
- North America: USA (2 warehouses), Canada (Vancouver and Toronto warehouses)
- Europe: Netherlands (Rotterdam warehouse), Germany, UK, France
- Asia-Pacific: Australia (Sydney warehouse), Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia
- Middle East & Africa: UAE, Saudi Arabia, South Africa
This global presence enables us to offer flexible shipping options and local inventory for distributors worldwide, giving the US market priority access to our newest products and fast logistics.
2. US Capsule Market Landscape: Pain Points Solved by EEK
The United States has the most advanced and demanding nutraceutical market globally, with annual spending on dietary supplements surpassing $50 billion. However, US distributors face three main challenges that impede growth—all of which EEK has specifically created solutions to address.
2.1 Escalating Domestic Costs
US-based capsule manufacturers are struggling with soaring overhead costs: labor expenses have risen by 35% over the past decade, energy prices are unpredictable, and industrial real estate in areas like Pennsylvania and Illinois has doubled in value. These increased costs are passed on to distributors, resulting in domestic gelatin capsules being priced 20–30% higher than EEK’s counterparts.
In contrast, EEK’s integrated supply chain in China—local sourcing of raw materials like bovine collagen for gelatin and plant cellulose for HPMC—and ultra-high-speed automated production lines (up to 3 million capsules per day) enable us to offer competitive prices without sacrificing quality. For US distributors, this results in a 15–25% increase in profit margins that can be reinvested into marketing, clinical trials, or last-mile delivery.
2.2 Lead Time Volatility
Domestic manufacturers often take 4–6 months for custom orders, such as specialty sizes or brand-specific colors, which leaves distributors unable to quickly respond to shifting consumer trends, like the sudden surge in immune-support supplements after 2020. EEK eliminates this risk with:
- Standard Sizes: 7–10 day lead times for in-stock sizes (e.g., #0, #1, #2) from our US warehouses.
- Custom Orders: 3–4 weeks for custom colors, printing, or specialty sizes—thanks to our automated production lines and US-based inventory of raw materials.
- Emergency Stock: For urgent stock-outs, we offer air freight from China to US warehouses in 3–5 days, ensuring distributors never miss a sales opportunity.
2.3 Supply Volatility & Capacity and conduct strict vetting Constraints
During peak demand periods, such as Q4 holiday season and flu season, domestic manufacturers often implement “supply rationing,” limiting distributors to 70% of their ordered volume. EEK Pharma’s 50 billion capsule annual capacity ensures we never ration supply—even during global crises like COVID-19 or raw material shortages. Our US warehouses keep a 3-month safety stock of all core products, ensuring distributors have reliable access to the capsules they need, when they need them.
3. Fully Customizable Products: Sizes, Colors, and Branding for US Distributors
One of EEK Pharma’s key differentiators is our ability to offer fully customizable capsules that align with US brand identities and product requirements. From a comprehensive range of sizes to custom colors and printing, we empower distributors to create unique, marketable products.
3.1 Extensive Size Range: Comprehensive options from #000 to #5, including specialty “el” sizes.
As a trusted partner for US distributors, EEK takes pride in offering an industry-leading, fully comprehensive range of capsule sizes—designed to meet every possible need of the American pharmaceutical and nutraceutical markets. Our size portfolio leaves no gaps, covering everything from the largest high-dose options to the smallest micro-dosing formulations, including specialized “el” (extended) sizes that accommodate unique volume requirements.
At the top of our size range is the #000 (Jumbo) size, the preferred choice for high-capacity formulations. Next, we offer the specialty #00el (Extended) size, designed with extra length to accommodate larger fill volumes without sacrificing structural integrity. The #00 standard size is a staple for medium-to-large adult supplements, while the specialty #0el (Extended) size offers a versatile middle ground for formulations that need more room than standard sizes but less than the #00el.
Our most versatile offering is the #0 standard size, a favorite among US distributors for its broad applicability across vitamins, minerals, and OTC drugs. We then address medium to small-dose needs with the #1, #2, #3, #4, and #5 standard sizes—each precisely engineered to ensure consistent dimensions and performance. The #5 size, our smallest, is ideal for pediatric, geriatric, or ultra-low-dose formulations that require easy swallowing.
Every size in our portfolio—from #000 to #5, including the specialty #00el and #0el—meets strict dimensional standards, ensuring seamless compatibility with leading US filling equipment (Bosch, IMA, MG2) and achieving a 99.99% filling rate. This wide size range eliminates the need for US distributors to source from multiple suppliers, streamlining your supply chain and making sure you have the right size for every product in your lineup.
3.2 Custom Colors: FDA-Approved, Unlimited Possibilities
US consumers are increasingly associating product color with brand identity (e.g., green for “natural,” blue for “trustworthy”). EEK offers fully customizable color solutions to help distributors stand out on retail shelves.
- Single-Color Capsules: Choose from over 100 FDA-approved standard pigments or specify a Pantone color code for a perfect brand match. Our pigments are free of heavy metals, artificial dyes, and gluten—meeting US “clean label” standards.
- Dual-Color Capsules: Combine two colors (e.g., white body + blue cap) for stronger brand recognition. Popular among private-label brands seeking to differentiate from competitors
- Special Effects: Matte finishes, glossy coatings, or subtle color gradients—ideal for premium supplements such as luxury probiotics or specialty pharmaceuticals.
Case Study: A US distributor specializing in vegan supplements partnered with EEK to create a custom “forest green” HPMC capsule for their immune-support line. The unique color increased shelf visibility, leading to a 30% boost in retail sales within 6 months.
3.3 Branding & Printing: Secure, High-Definition Options
To combat counterfeiting and strengthen brand identity, we provide high-definition printing options for capsules—compatible with US brand security standards:
- Radial Printing: Text or logos printed around the capsule's circumference (e.g., brand name, “Vegan,” “FDA Approved”).
- Axial Printing: Text or logos printed along the length of the capsule for enhanced visibility. to appeal
- QR Code Printing: Insert QR codes that link to product details, batch traceability, or brand websites to appeal to tech-savvy US consumers.
All printing employs food-grade, non-toxic inks that meet FDA and EU standards, ensuring no chemicals migrate into the capsule fill.
4. Production Process: Precision, Automation, and Quality at Every Step
EEK's production process demonstrates our dedication to quality—30 years of refinement have resulted in a “Zero Defect” initiative that guarantees every capsule meets or exceeds U.S. standards. Our advanced facility in Zhejiang Province covers 50,000 square meters and employs over 80 staff, including more than 10 quality control experts and 10 R&D specialists.
4.1 Raw Material Sourcing: Safety First
We source only pharmaceutical-grade raw materials, using strict vetting processes to ensure compliance with US regulations.
- Gelatin: Sourced from BSE/TSE-free bovine and porcine collagen (from certified farms in China and New Zealand). Each batch undergoes heavy metal screening (lead, arsenic, cadmium) and microbial testing to ensure purity.
- HPMC: Derived from high-purity plant cellulose (cotton or wood pulp) from sustainable forests, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Our HPMC is non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan. , which is
- Pullulan: Produced via fermentation of tapioca starch (organic, non-GMO), with a crystal-clear appearance and superior oxygen barrier—ideal for sensitive actives like probiotics.
- Pigments & Inks: All colorants and printing inks are FDA-approved, free of titanium dioxide, and compliant with US 21 CFR Part 172 standards.
Every raw material supplier undergoes yearly audits, and we require a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each shipment—kept in our digital traceability system for 10 years.
4.2 Automated Production: Speed &Consistency
Our production lines are fully automated, using equipment from leading global manufacturers (imported from Canada) to minimize errors and ensure batch uniformity.
- Mixing & Dissolving: Raw materials (e.g., gelatin, HPMC) are mixed with purified water in computer-controlled tanks, maintaining precise temperature (60–70°C for gelatin, 80–85°C for HPMC) and humidity (45–55%).
- Film Formation: The mixture is poured onto rotating drums to create thin, uniform films—monitored by laser thickness gauges to ensure a tolerance of ±0.05mm.
- Capsule Molding: The films are fed into capsule molds, where they are cut and shaped into capsule bodies and caps. For “el” sizes (e.g., #00el, #0el), specialized molds extend the length by 10–15% to accommodate extra volume.
- Assembly: Capsule bodies and caps are automatically assembled using a “click-lock” mechanism—verified for secure closure to prevent telescoping during filling.
- Quality Checks: In-line cameras inspect each capsule for defects (e.g., cracks, uneven coloring, misalignment), rejecting any non-compliant units (rejection rate less than 0.01%).
- Packaging: Capsules are counted and packaged in food-grade polyethylene bags (with desiccants to control moisture), then sealed in corrugated boxes labeled with batch numbers, production dates, and expiration dates.
Our production lines run 24/7, with a maximum output of 3 million capsules per day—enabling us to fulfill large US orders (e.g., 50 million capsules) in as little as 2 weeks.
4.3 Environmental Commitment
As US distributors increasingly prioritize sustainability, EEK has invested in eco-friendly practices:
- 100% renewable energy powers our Chinese facility with solar and wind.
- Water used in production is recycled at an 85% reuse rate after purification.
- Packaging is recyclable and contains 30% post-consumer waste.
- We offset 100% of our carbon emissions through reforestation projects in China.
- These practices align with US retail requirements (e.g., Walmart’s sustainability standards) and help our distributor partners market their products as eco-friendly.
5. Quality Control: US-Compliant Testing for Every Batch
Quality is the foundation of EEK’s operations—and our quality control (QC) process is designed to meet or surpass the strictest US standards, including FDA, GMP, ISO 9001, and ISO 22000. Our in-house QC lab is equipped with advanced analytical tools, and each batch undergoes more than 28 tests before leaving our facility.
5.1 Three-Tiered Testing Protocol
Tier 1: Raw Material Testing (Before Production)
- Heavy Metal Screening: HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) tests for lead (<0.5 ppm), arsenic (<0.3 ppm), cadmium (<0.1ppm), and mercury (<0.01 ppm)—all below US FDA limits.
- Microbial Limits: Total aerobic count <100 CFU/g, yeast/mold <10 CFU/g, E. coli and Salmonella: negative—tested via FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy).
- Purity Analysis: Gelatin is tested for Bloom strength (220–250 g) and viscosity (60–70 mPa·s) to ensure dissolution consistency; HPMC is tested for hydroxypropyl content (7–12%) and methoxyl content (28–30%) to meet USP standards.
Tier 2: In-Process Testing (During Production)
- Capsule Thickness: Laser measurements confirm that body and cap thickness remain consistent (±0.05mm) across the batch.
- Weight Uniformity: Random samples are weighed to ensure the RSD (relative standard deviation) stays below 5%, which is vital for accurate dosing.
- Locking Force: Tensile testing machines verify that the “click-lock” mechanism can endure 5–8kg of force, preventing separation during filling.
- Moisture Content: Gelatin capsules are tested to contain 3–16% moisture, while HPMC capsules are tested to contain 5–8% moisture—both ideal for stability and machineability.
Tier 3: Final Product Testing (Before Shipment)
- Disintegration Time: Immediate-release capsules disintegrate in less than 30 minutes (USP standard); delayed-release capsules disintegrate in less than 60 minutes in intestinal fluid.
- Leak Testing: Liquid-filled hard capsules (LFHC) are submerged in water for 24 hours—you are guaranteed a 0% leakage rate through HPMC banding technology.
- Stability Testing: Samples are stored at 40℃/75% RH for 6 months to confirm there are no changes in color, disintegration, or microbial count—results are provided to U.S. distributors for FDA documentation.
- Batch Traceability: Each batch is assigned a unique lot number, linked to raw material COAs, production records, and test results—accessible to US.. distributors through our online portal.
5.2 Certifications: Proof of Compliance
EEK holds all certificationsrequired for US market entry, including:
- FDA Registration (Number: 123456789)—valid for import and distribution in the US.
- GMP Certification (issued by China’s NMPA and audited by US FDA inspectors).
- ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management System) and ISO 22000:2018 (Food Safety Management System).
- Halal Certification (issued by the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America, IFANCA) and Kosher Certification (issued by the Orthodox Union, OU)—essential for reaching 40% of US consumers who follow these dietary guidelines.
- Non-GMO Project Verification and Vegan Society Certification for HPMC and pullulan capsules.
All certifications are available for download on our website, and we provide comprehensive documentation packages to US distributors for customs clearance and retail compliance.
6. After-Sales Support: Partnering for Long-Term Success
At EEK, we believe that a successful partnership doesn’t end with delivery. Our US-focused after-sales team is dedicated to ensuring you get the most out of our products—offering personalized support that meets your specific needs.
6.1 Dedicated Account Managers
Every US distributor is assigned a dedicated account manager based in our Los Angeles office, who serves as your single point of contact for:
- Order tracking and updates.
- Customization requests (e.g., new colors, sizes).
- Compliance documentation (COAs, certifications).
- Troubleshooting and support.
Our account managers have over 10 years of experience in the US nutraceutical industry—they understand your market, challenges, and how to help you grow.
6.2 Technical Support for US Filling Machines
We understand that capsule performance on your filling machine is crucial for your operations. Our technical team offers:
- Machine Compatibility Guides: Customized for US equipment (Bosch GKF 3000, IMA Zanasi 400, MG2 Xpressa)—covering settings for “click-lock” capsules, filling speeds, and troubleshooting advice.
- On-Site Support: For large orders or complex setups, our technicians visit your facility in the US to test capsules and optimize filling processes—free for orders over 10 million capsules.
- 24/7 Hotline: English-speaking technical experts available anytime to address urgent issues (e.g., capsule mashing, telescoping).
6.3 Quality Guarantee & Returns Policy
- Quality Guarantee: If any batch fails to meet US standards (e.g., disintegration time, microbial limits), we will replace it at no charge and cover all shipping costs.
- Returns Policy: For non-quality-related returns (e.g., overstock), we accept returns within 90 days of delivery—with a full refund minus a small restocking fee.
- Complaint Resolution: We respond to all complaints within 24 hours and provide a solution within 48 hours—backed by our 98% customer satisfaction rate.
7. Why US Distributors Choose EEK: Customer Success Stories
Over the years, we’ve partnered with hundreds of US distributors—ranging from small private-label brands to large national chains. Here are two success stories that highlight our impact:
7.1 Case Study 1: Private-Label Vegan Supplement Brand
A small US distributor specializing in vegan supplements faced challenges with domestic HPMC capsule suppliers: long lead times (4 months for custom colors) and high prices cutting into their margins. They partnered with EEK in 2021.
We delivered custom “lavender” HPMC capsules (size #0) in 3 weeks—half the domestic lead time. Our competitive pricing increased their profit margin by 22%.
With our Los Angeles warehouse, they reduced delivery time to West Coast retailers from 7 days to 2 days. Result: The distributor’s vegan supplement line grew by 65% in 2 years, and they expanded into 50+ new retail locations.
7.2 Case Study 2: Large Nutraceutical Chain
A national US nutraceutical chain faced supply rationing from their domestic gelatin capsule supplier during the 2022 flu season, leaving them unable to fulfill 30% of their orders. They turned to EEK: We fulfilled their order of 50 million gelatin capsules (size #00) within 1 week from our New York warehouse. Our 99.99% machine filling rate cut their production downtime by 15%. Our safety stock program ensured they never experienced stock-outs during peak demand. As a result, the chain increased customer satisfaction by 40% and expanded their partnership with EEK to include HPMC and liquid-filled capsules.
8. Conclusion & Call to Action
In the competitive US pharmaceutical and nutraceutical market, your choice of empty capsule supplier is more than just a purchasing decision — it’s a strategic investment in your brand’s success. For 30 years, EEK has been a trusted partner for US distributors, offering:
- 30 years of industry expertise and a proven track record with top US brands.
- Fully customizable products: 10+ sizes (including #000, #00el, #0el, #0–#5), unlimited colors, and high-definition printing.
- US-localized logistics: 2 warehouses across America for fast, reliable delivery.
- Uncompromising quality: FDA/GMP-compliant, with 28+ tests per batch and a “Zero Defect” guarantee.
- Personalized support: Dedicated account managers, technical experts, and after-sales service.
- Don’t let domestic costs, long lead times, or supply volatility hold you back. Partner with a manufacturer that understands the US market, speaks your language, and has the resources to help you grow.
Take the Next Step to Optimize Your Supply Chain
Contact EEK Pharma today to:
- Request a Free Sample Kit: Test our capsules on your filling machine (includes up to 5 sizes/colors + test reports).
- Get a Custom Quote: Receive tailored pricing for your high-volume needs (gelatin, HPMC, pullulan, or liquid-filled capsules).
- Schedule a Consultation: Talk with our US supply chain strategists to discuss your customization needs, logistics, and compliance requirements.
Visit www.eekpharma.com or email kevin@eekpharma.com to request samples or schedule a consultation.