Softgel Capsule Private Label & Third Party Manufacturing in India: Gelatin, Veg Softgels and Omega-3 Explained
Why softgels are the format of choice for oils and fat-soluble nutrients
Some nutrients simply work better in a softgel. Omega-3 fish oil, vitamin D3, vitamin E, CoQ10, evening primrose oil and many herbal oils are liquids or dissolve only in oil. A softgel holds that liquid in a sealed, airtight shell. This protects it from oxygen and light, hides fishy or bitter tastes, and makes the capsule smooth and easy to swallow.
For brands, softgels also look premium on the shelf. That is why omega-3 and vitamin D3 softgels are among the best-selling supplements in India and worldwide. But softgel production needs special encapsulation machines, controlled drying rooms and careful oil handling. Most brands partner with an experienced softgel manufacturer in India instead of building their own line.
Private label vs third party softgel manufacturing
- Private label:pick a ready formula such as omega-3 1000 mg or vitamin D3 60,000 IU, add your brand and launch quickly.
- Third party manufacturing:the manufacturer produces your approved formula under your brand, and you focus on sales.
- Contract manufacturing:you supply your own formula and specifications, and sometimes even the active oil. The manufacturer makes it to your exact standard.
All three models suit softgels well. The right one depends on how quickly you want to launch and how unique your formula is.
Gelatin or vegetarian softgels?
- Gelatin softgelsare the standard. They are economical, very stable and suit most oil fills.
- Vegetarian softgelsuse a plant-based shell. They carry the green veg mark, which matters for Indian buyers, and they suit vegan and many religious-diet markets.
Veg softgels cost more per capsule and usually need a higher minimum order, often around 1,00,000 softgels. Gelatin softgels typically start at about 30,000.
Omega-3 fish oil grades in simple terms
Fish oil is sold by its EPA and DHA content. The grade decides the label claim and the price:
| Grade | EPA + DHA per 1 g | Typical use |
| 18/12 | 180 mg + 120 mg | Everyday omega-3, best value |
| 33/22 | 330 mg + 220 mg | Higher-strength formulas |
| 36/24 | 360 mg + 240 mg | Premium daily omega-3 |
| 40/30 and 45/32 | 400 + 300 / 450 + 320 mg | Triple-strength and high-potency products |
Also ask whether the oil is ethyl ester (EE) or triglyceride (TG), and whether it is molecularly distilled to remove contaminants.
Fill weight and serving size
Every softgel machine has a fill limit. Pure oils can usually go up to about 1,350 mg per gelatin softgel, and blends with powders less. If a formula needs more, the right answer is 2 softgels per serving, not an oversized capsule that is hard to swallow.
The softgel manufacturing process
- Formula check and costing:every ingredient is checked against FSSAI limits.
- Fill preparation:oils and actives are blended and de-aerated.
- Shell preparation:gelatin or plant-based shell mass is prepared.
- Encapsulation:the rotary die machine forms, fills and seals each softgel.
- Drying:softgels dry in controlled tumble dryers and trays.
- Testing and packing:weight, seal and assay checks, then bottles, jars or blisters.
How to choose a softgel manufacturer
- FSSAI manufacturing licence covering health supplements and nutraceuticals
- WHO-GMP, ISO 22000, HACCP and Halal certificates, especially for export
- Both gelatin and vegetarian softgel capsulesunder one roof
- A clear list of fish oil grades with certificates of analysis
- In-house QC testing for every batch
- Written formula ownership for custom products
Why brands choose INFY LIFE SCIENCE for softgels
INFY LIFE SCIENCE manufactures gelatin and vegetarian softgels at its facility near Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The range covers omega-3 fish oil in grades from 18/12 up to high-potency 45/32, cod liver oil, krill oil, vitamin D3, vitamin E and herbal oil softgels.
With 500+ brands served, 1,000+ products made and exports to 15+ countries, Infy works with startups launching their first SKU and established brands adding new lines. Its certifications include WHO-GMP, ISO 22000, HACCP, Halal and Kosher.
Conclusion
Softgels are the best way to deliver oils and fat-soluble nutrients in a premium, easy-to-swallow form. Decide between gelatin and veg early, choose the right fish oil grade for your claim, and work with a certified manufacturer that handles both.
Planning a softgel or omega-3 range? Contact INFY LIFE SCIENCE at [email protected] or +91 90239 33030.
