Understand the fundamental difference

Flexible mold system

Silicone molds

  • Flexing can assist release and demolding
  • Support trays or frames may be needed in production
  • Complex shapes still require release testing
Rigid mold system

Polycarbonate molds

  • Rigid handling can support repeatable positioning
  • Shapes must release without flexing the mold
  • Gummy formulation and release behavior must be tested

Silicone and polycarbonate are different mold materials with different handling characteristics. The right choice depends on formulation, release method, production equipment, required rigidity, surface finish, and cleaning process.

Silicone molds

Silicone molds are flexible, which can assist demolding and make them useful for many gummy shapes and production methods. Performance varies by silicone formulation, hardness, cure system, post-curing, mold thickness, cavity design, and process conditions.

Polycarbonate molds

Polycarbonate molds are rigid and are widely used where dimensional rigidity and a hard polished surface are important, including many chocolate processes. Suitability for gummies depends on release behavior, formulation, equipment, and mold design.

Key comparison points

  • Flexible versus rigid handling
  • Demolding method
  • Surface finish
  • Equipment, frame, and conveyor requirements
  • Cleaning method and approved chemicals
  • Temperature limits from the exact material supplier
  • Food-contact documentation for the exact formulation

Do not rely on material name alone

“Silicone” and “polycarbonate” describe broad material families. Confirm the exact grade, intended use, temperature range, cleaning limits, and supporting documentation. Test the complete production process before scaling.

Read the food-grade platinum-cured silicone guide, review the buyer’s guide, or view silicone gummy molds.

Choose Stock or Custom Silicone Molds

Shop in-stock silicone gummy molds when an existing shape, cavity size, and format fit your process. Request a custom gummy mold when you need a branded shape, controlled dosage, specific cavity layout, or equipment-compatible mold format.

Silicone fits your production plan?

Choose an existing mold for immediate production, a bulk package for higher quantities, or a custom format for proprietary shapes and equipment-specific layouts.

Silicone and Polycarbonate Moulds in the UK

UK commercial buyers should compare the exact material grade, flexibility, rigidity, surface finish, temperature limits and cleaning requirements of the mould being considered rather than relying on the material family name alone.

When a specific food-contact or facility requirement applies in the United Kingdom, request the supporting documentation for the exact mould and review it against the intended application and your own compliance requirements before production.

Compare mould materials for UK production