Formulation of Plant-Based Hard Capsules: Optimization of Crosslinking Agents in Modified Sago Starch–Plasticizer–κ-Carrageenan Matrix
Abstract
This study aims to develop a plant-based hard capsule shell as an alternative to animal-derived gelatin capsules, which are still widely used in the pharmaceutical industry but pose limitations in terms of halal compliance, vegan acceptance, and chemical stability. The main materials used in the capsule formulation were modified sago starch and κ-carrageenan, with the addition of crosslinking agents to enhance the structural stability of the polymer network, and glycerol as a plasticizer to improve flexibility and reduce brittleness. The capsules were prepared using the casting method, in which the film-forming solution is poured into flat molds followed by low-temperature drying to form capsule sheets. Three types of crosslinkers were compared in this study: calcium chloride (CaCl₂) as an ionic crosslinker, sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) as a phosphate-based crosslinker, and citric acid as an esterification crosslinker. Evaluation was conducted through various physicochemical characterizations, including pH measurement, moisture content, ash content, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to observe the formation of intermolecular bonds. In addition, amylose content analysis was performed on the modified sago starch to ensure its capability in forming stable film structures. The results showed that the formulation with CaCl₂ produced capsules with moisture and ash content within pharmacopeial limits and pH values suitable for oral dosage forms. FTIR analysis confirmed the interaction between the hydroxyl groups of starch and Ca²⁺ ions, which strengthened the film structure through ionic bonding. Glycerol was proven to enhance elasticity without compromising capsule stability. Therefore, this formulation shows strong potential as a halal, vegan-friendly, and environmentally sustainable plant-based hard capsule, and is worth further development as an alternative to gelatin capsules in the pharmaceutical industry.
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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.12962%2Fj2964710X.v7i1.23186
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