Softgel Capsules – What Are They and Why Are They Better?

The form of a dietary supplement plays a crucial role in its effectiveness. While most consumers focus on dosage and ingredients, capsule technology directly affects bioavailability, stability, and overall comfort of use. One of the most advanced and recommended forms for fat-soluble vitamins is the softgel capsule.

In this article, we explain in detail what a softgel is, how it works, and why in many cases it outperforms traditional hard capsules, especially in vitamin D3 and K2 supplementation.

What is a softgel capsule?

A softgel capsule is a soft, flexible gelatin capsule filled with a liquid or semi-liquid active substance, most commonly in oil form. These capsules are produced through a process of hermetically sealing the ingredients within a uniform shell.

Softgels are specifically designed for substances that are:

• fat-soluble (e.g. vitamin D3, vitamin K2)
• sensitive to oxygen, light, and moisture
• requiring high and consistent bioavailability

How is a softgel capsule constructed?

A softgel capsule consists of a uniform gelatin shell (most often with added glycerin or sorbitol), which provides flexibility and tightness. Inside, there is an oil-based solution of the active ingredient, ready for immediate release after ingestion.

Unlike hard capsules, softgels do not contain powder that must first dissolve in the digestive tract.

Softgel vs hard capsule – key differences

Although hard capsules are widely used, they have significant limitations, especially in the supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins.

• Form of the substance
  Softgels contain vitamins already dissolved in oil, while hard capsules most often contain powder or granules.
• Absorption
  Substances in softgels are released faster and absorbed more easily by the intestines.
• Stability
  The hermetic softgel shell protects ingredients from oxidation and degradation.
• Comfort of use
  The soft, smooth softgel capsule is easier to swallow.

Why do softgels increase the bioavailability of vitamins D3 and K2?

Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone) belong to the group of fat-soluble vitamins. This means that for effective absorption, they require the presence of lipids in the digestive tract.

In a softgel capsule, these vitamins are already dissolved in oil, which:

• eliminates the powder dissolution stage
• accelerates the release of active substances
• ensures more predictable absorption
• reduces the risk of biological loss

“Fat-soluble vitamins show significantly higher bioavailability when administered in a lipid carrier compared to dry forms.” – Journal of Clinical Nutrition

Why do UNUVI supplements use softgel capsules?

In supplements such as UNUVI Vitamin D3 + K2 4000 IU , the use of softgel capsules is not accidental.

It is a conscious technological choice that:

• supports maximum vitamin bioavailability
• ensures stability of active ingredients
• improves daily supplementation comfort
• meets current quality standards in supplementation