The nutraceutical market is booming, but with so many products vying for attention, how do brands stand out? One critical factor is the delivery format. Choosing the right format doesn’t just impact functionality—it can elevate a product’s appeal, effectiveness, and consumer trust. At Factory6, we don’t just manufacture; we partner with brands to create unique solutions that align with market trends and consumer needs. Here are key insights on what’s shaping the future of delivery formats and how to use them to gain a competitive edge.

Capsules: Reinventing a Classic

Capsules are tried-and-true, but innovation is key to keeping them relevant. Enter delayed-release and dual-action capsules, which allow for targeted absorption or multi-phase delivery. These formats are perfect for consumers who value efficacy and convenience. For brands, capsules also offer flexibility in combining complex ingredients like adaptogens and nootropics into a single dose.

Pro Tip: Highlight how advanced capsule technology supports better absorption or ingredient stability, giving consumers more value for their money.

Additional Benefits:

Ideal for enclosing sensitive ingredients that degrade in light or air.
Suitable for enteric coatings that protect active ingredients from stomach acid.
Customizable with vegetarian or gelatin shells to suit different consumer preferences.

Market Insight: Capsules account for 39% of the nutraceutical market’s revenue as of 2021, maintaining their position as a trusted and widely used format (1).

Tablets: A Format with Endless Possibilities

Gone are the days of boring chalky tablets. With advancements in flavoring and dissolvability, tablets are evolving. Effervescent and chewable options appeal to a broader demographic, including kids and older adults who may struggle with swallowing capsules. Tablets also allow for precise doses, making them ideal for functional stacking—pairing vitamins with minerals or energy enhancers in one dose.

F6 Offer: Want to try our Fizzy Tabs™ or creatine tablets? Reach out and we’ll send samples your way!

Additional Benefits:

Effervescent tablets are great for delivering water-soluble nutrients like vitamin C.
Dissolvable tablets provide convenience for consumers without access to water.
Customizable shapes and imprints offer unique branding opportunities.

Market Insight: Effervescent tablets alone are projected to exceed $54 billion globally by 2028, underscoring their popularity (2).

Powders: Blend Across Markets

Powdered supplements are leading the charge in customization. They offer single-serve stick packs for hydration, pre-workout blends, collagen boosts, and much, much more. Powders are also gaining ground in sustainability due to their lightweight packaging and reduced shipping costs. Brands can differentiate with clear messaging on solubility, taste, and versatility (think smoothies, coffee, or even personal care).

Pro Tip: Invest in consumer education on creative ways to use powders to stand out in a crowded market.

Additional Benefits:

Powders allow for higher doses of active ingredients that may not fit in capsules or tablets.
Easily customizable with flavor profiles to suit different markets.
Instant mixability appeals to fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals.

Market Insight: Powder-based nutraceuticals are expected to grow by 4.7% annually from 2024 to 2032, driven by convenience and versatility (3).

Gummies: More Than a Treat

Gummies have exploded in popularity, but innovation is still possible. Brands are experimenting with functional gummies that go beyond basic vitamins—think probiotics, adaptogens, or collagen blends. With demand for indulgent yet purposeful products, gummies are no longer just for kids; they’re for adults seeking a fun, flavorful experience.

Key Idea: Offer limited-edition seasonal flavors or combine multiple benefits (e.g., immune and gut health) to stay fresh and engaging.

Additional Benefits:

Highly customizable with unique shapes, colors, and flavors.
Soft texture and great taste improve compliance for consumers.
Ideal for lower-dose nutrients where chewability enhances the experience.

Market Insight: Gummies now hold 21.3% of total nutraceutical sales, with a staggering 74.8% growth in 2021, making them one of the fastest-growing delivery formats (4).

Expanding Beyond Nutraceuticals

The demand for innovative delivery formats isn’t limited to supplements. Earth-friendly personal care and beauty products are becoming a key area of growth. At Factory6 we offer our clients new opportunities in this space with shampoo powders, transportable skincare sachets, toothpaste tablets, and more. These are solutions designed with convenience and sustainability in mind without compromising on efficacy.

Growth Opportunity: The sustainable personal care market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.5%, reaching $129.7 billion by 2031 (5).

Check out Waterless by F6 for more information.

How Factory6 Helps You Lead the Market

Your product’s format isn’t just a functional choice; it’s a marketing advantage. Factory6 combines technical expertise with creative problem-solving to help brands identify the format that best aligns with their vision and audience. Whether it’s developing a completely custom formula or building upon the line you already have, we’re here to make your products unforgettable.

Ready to push boundaries in 2025? Check out our article on upcoming supplement trends and let’s innovate together.

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