Oral strips vs gummies for supplement brands

This guide explores the differences between oral strips and gummies as supplement formats, helping brand owners decide which aligns with their product goals. It outlines key considerations such as active ingredient compatibility, target audience preferences, and manufacturing workflows. By understanding the unique characteristics of each format, brands can make informed decisions when developing their product range with a private-label partner.

What this format is and who it suits

Oral strips are thin, dissolvable films that deliver active ingredients directly through the oral mucosa, offering rapid absorption without water. They suit consumers who prefer discreet, on-the-go supplementation or have difficulty swallowing pills. Gummies are chewable, candy-like supplements popular among adults and children alike for their taste and ease of use. Both formats appeal to brands targeting convenience-focused demographics, but each has distinct formulation and production requirements.

Choosing actives and a category fit

Not all active ingredients are suitable for both formats. Oral strips work well with low-dose, fast-absorbing actives like vitamins B12, melatonin, or caffeine. Gummies can accommodate a wider range of vitamins and minerals but require careful formulation to maintain stability and taste. Brands should consider the solubility, dosage, and heat sensitivity of their chosen actives when selecting a format. A private-label partner can advise on compatibility based on the ingredient profile.

Personalisation: Make it Yours

Under the Make it Yours model, brand owners can customise their oral strips or gummies by selecting active ingredients, dosage levels, flavour profiles, and packaging design. This approach allows for differentiation without the cost and complexity of full custom development. The partner provides a menu of pre-validated options, enabling brands to tailor the product to their target market while leveraging established manufacturing processes.

Documentation and responsibilities

Brand owners are responsible for final product claims, label compliance, and regulatory approvals in their target market. The manufacturer provides documentation such as certificates of analysis, formulation sheets, and stability data to support these efforts. It is essential for brands to verify that all claims are substantiated and that the product meets local regulations. Clear communication of responsibilities upfront helps avoid compliance issues later.

From samples to production

The process begins with a brief outlining the desired format, actives, and customisation preferences. The manufacturer then produces samples for evaluation, allowing the brand to assess taste, texture, and stability. Once approved, the project moves to production, with batch records and quality checks throughout. Lead times vary based on formulation complexity and order size; the manufacturer provides timelines during the quotation phase.

How this format fits a multi-format range

Offering both oral strips and gummies allows brands to cater to different consumer preferences within a single product line. For example, a brand might launch a gummy multivitamin for daily use and oral strip energy boosters for on-the-go occasions. Working with a multi-format private-label partner simplifies logistics, as one supplier can handle both formats, ensuring consistent quality and streamlined communication across the product range.