Bottle Cartons vs Pouches vs Labels: Supplement Packaging Compared (2026)
Every Supplement Needs Packaging. Not Every Supplement Needs the Same Kind.
Capsule vitamins, protein powders, and liquid supplements each need fundamentally different packaging. A 60-count capsule bottle fits in a 2×2×5" carton. A 2lb protein powder needs an 8×12" stand-up pouch. Liquid collagen ships in a glass bottle with a shrink sleeve.
Here's how the three main formats compare on cost, compliance, and brand impact.
Format Comparison
| Factor | Bottle Carton | Stand-Up Pouch | Custom Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Capsules, tablets, softgels | Powders, mixes, bulk | Any bottle format |
| Retail suitability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| FDA panel space | Ample (4 panels) | Ample (front + back) | Tight (label area only) |
| Brand impact | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Premium | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Strong | ⭐⭐⭐ Standard |
| Protection | Structural + bottle | Barrier film | Bottle provides structure |
| Cost (5K qty) | $0.40-$1.50 | $0.30-$0.95 | $0.08-$0.35 |
| Amazon ready | ✅ Preferred | ✅ Yes | ✅ With tamper seal |
When Each Format Wins
Bottle cartons if…
You're selling through retail or Amazon, need shelf presence, want ample space for your Supplement Facts panel, and your product is capsules/tablets in a bottle.
Stand-up pouches if…
Your product is a powder (protein, collagen, greens, pre-workout), you sell primarily DTC, and you want to minimize shipping weight.
Labels only if…
You're bootstrapping and need the lowest possible per-unit cost, selling DTC-only, and your bottle itself provides adequate branding space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I start with labels and upgrade to cartons later?
Yes — and most brands do exactly this. Start with labels at $0.12/unit to validate your product. Once you're doing $20K+/month in revenue, add cartons ($0.55/unit at 5K) for the retail-ready perception boost.
Which format has the most space for FDA-required text?
Bottle cartons — four printable panels (front, back, two sides) give you the most real estate for Supplement Facts, ingredients, disclaimers, and branding combined. Pouches are second. Labels have the least space and may require smaller font sizes.
Compare formats for your supplement. Send us your product specs — bottle size, product type, and quantity — for exact pricing on all three options. Browse health packaging.