Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) play a crucial role in maintaining hydration levels and treating dehydration caused by diarrhoea, vomiting, and excessive sweating. ORS is widely recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a cost-effective and lifesaving solution, especially in developing nations where access to medical facilities is limited.
The manufacturing of ORS has grown significantly due to rising awareness and increasing global demand. Governments and health organisations actively promote ORS to combat dehydration-related mortality, making it an essential product in the healthcare sector. The widespread availability of ORS in hospitals, pharmacies, and even retail stores ensures easy access for those in need.
2. Importance of Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS)
ORS is a simple yet powerful formulation that replenishes lost fluids and electrolytes in the body. It is widely used in medical treatments, sports hydration, and emergency situations.
A. Benefits of ORS
1. Medical Treatments: ORS is essential in treating dehydration caused by diarrhea, cholera, and vomiting. It is particularly effective in children and elderly individuals who are prone to dehydration.
2. Sports Hydration: ORS helps athletes and fitness enthusiasts maintain electrolyte balance, preventing dehydration, muscle cramps, and heat exhaustion.
3. Emergency Situations: During heat waves, natural disasters, and outbreaks of diseases like cholera, ORS is a life-saving solution for affected populations.
4. Pediatric and Geriatric Care: ORS is widely recommended for infants, children, and elderly patients more vulnerable to dehydration due to lower fluid retention capacities.
5. Post-Surgical Recovery: ORS helps restore lost fluids in patients recovering from surgeries and medical treatments that cause dehydration.
The affordability and accessibility of ORS make it an essential product in global healthcare efforts, particularly in regions where clean drinking water and healthcare infrastructure are limited.
B. Market Demand and Growth
- The global ORS market is witnessing steady growth due to increased health awareness, government initiatives, and a rise in gastrointestinal diseases. The demand is particularly high in developing countries where dehydration-related illnesses are common. Additionally, the increasing trend of fitness and sports activities has further driven the market demand.
C. Factors Driving Market Growth:
1. Government and NGO Initiatives: WHO and UNICEF actively promote ORS to reduce child mortality caused by diarrhoea.
2. Rising Cases of Dehydration-Related Illnesses: Gastrointestinal infections, heat exhaustion, and food poisoning contribute to the increasing need for ORS.
3. Expanding Sports and Fitness Industry: Athletes and individuals involved in strenuous activities use ORS for hydration.
4. Increasing Geriatric Population: Older adults are more susceptible to dehydration, increasing the demand for ORS.
5. Innovation in ORS Formulations: Flavoured ORS, organic solutions, and RTD (Ready-to-Drink) versions are attracting more consumers.
6. E-commerce and Online Sales: The rise of digital healthcare platforms and e-commerce has made ORS more accessible to consumers worldwide.
The ORS market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6-8% in the coming years, making it a lucrative business opportunity.
3.What Are Oral Rehydration Salts?
ORS is a scientifically formulated mixture of salts, glucose, and minerals that helps in rapid rehydration. It is available in powder and ready-to-drink (RTD) forms. ORS is commonly used in hospitals, homes, and emergency medical situations to replenish lost fluids efficiently.
A. Composition of ORS:
The composition per liter of each type is as follows:
B. Original ORS:
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Glucose (anhydrous): 20 grams.
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Sodium Chloride: 3.5 grams.
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Trisodium Citrate: 2.9 grams.
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Potassium Chloride: 1.5 grams.
C. Low Osmolarity ORS:
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Glucose (anhydrous): 13.5 grams
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Sodium Chloride: 2.6 grams
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Trisodium Citrate: 2.9 grams
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Potassium Chloride: 1.5 grams
Both types are effective in treating dehydration caused by diarrhoea and other illnesses.
These components work together to restore the body’s hydration levels quickly and effectively.