Packaging for Tablets: Blister vs Jar vs Tube (and When to Choose Each)

Tablet packaging is not only a branding decision. The choice between blisters, jars or tubes directly affects product stability, shelf life, user experience and manufacturing efficiency. This article explains when each tablet packaging format is typically used in food supplement manufacturing and how CMOs approach packaging selection.

In food supplement manufacturing, tablet packaging plays a critical role in protecting product quality from production to consumer use. While tablets are generally more stable than capsules or powders, they remain sensitive to moisture, mechanical stress and repeated handling.
For CMO, packaging selection is evaluated alongside formulation behaviour, tablet geometry and target market requirements. Choosing the wrong packaging format can lead to stability issues, consumer complaints or unnecessary cost.

Tablets blisters in cardboard box and tablets in plastic jar on blue background

Why tablet packaging matters in manufacturing

Tablet packaging affects:

Moisture exposure

Mechanical protection

Dosing convenience

Shelf life

Logistics efficiency

From a manufacturing perspective, packaging decisions influence not only the final product but also line configuration, throughput and quality control.

Blister packaging: individual protection and compliance

WHAT IS BLISTER PACKAGING?
Blister packaging encloses tablets individually in formed cavities, typically sealed with aluminium or laminated foil. Each tablet remains isolated from external exposure until use.

When blisters are typically used

Blister packaging is commonly selected when:

Moisture protection is critical
Precise daily dosing is required
Regulatory or retail presentation is important
Products are sold through pharmacies

Typical causes of high friability.

Vitamins and minerals
Multivitamin tablets
Premium or regulated markets

Manufacturing advantages of blisters

From a CMO perspective, blisters offer:

Strong moisture and oxygen barriers
Reduced risk of tablet abrasion
Clear batch traceability
Professional retail presentation

Because tablets are separated, damage during transport is minimized.

Jar packaging: flexibility and cost efficiency

WHAT IS JAR PACKAGING?
Jar packaging involves filling multiple tablets into bottles or jars, typically made of plastic or glass, often combined with desiccants.

When jars are typically used

Blister packaging is commonly selected when:

Jars are commonly selected when:

Products are used daily over longer periods
High tablet counts are required
Cost efficiency is a priority
Flexibility in tablet size is needed

Typical applications include:

Mineral supplements
Amino acid tablets
Sports nutrition products

Limitations of jar packaging

Because jars are opened repeatedly:

Tablets are exposed to moisture and air
Abrasion and dusting risk increases
Desiccant management becomes critical

For sensitive formulations, jars require careful stability assessment.

Tube packaging: the standard for effervescent tablets

What is tube packaging? Tube packaging typically consists of cylindrical containers with integrated or loose desiccants. Tablets are stacked vertically and protected from moisture.

When tubes are typically used
Tube packaging is primarily selected for:
- Effervescent tablets
- Moisture-sensitive formulations
- Products intended for dissolution in water
Effervescent tablets are rarely packaged outside tubes due to their sensitivity.