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Kenvue, the world’s largest pure-play consumer health company by revenue and the makers of ORSL electrolyte drinks, has expanded its rehydration portfolio with the launch of WHO ORS in a Ready-to-Drink (RTD) format. This new product is specifically designed to address diarrheal dehydration, providing an accessible and effective solution for patients suffering from dehydration caused by diarrhoea.
As India’s No.1 RTD electrolyte drink brand, ORSL has long been a pioneer in the sector, known for its scientifically formulated hydration solutions. With over 20 years of expertise, ORSL has consistently advanced the science of fluids, electrolytes, and energy to support recovery in non-diarrheal conditions. Building on this legacy, the new Ready-to-Drink WHO ORS provides an easy and accurate alternative to traditional ORS powder, ensuring patients receive the correct osmolarity as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The WHO estimates that diarrhoea leads to approximately 1.7 billion cases of childhood diarrheal disease annually, with India seeing diarrhoea as the third leading cause of death in children under five. Oral rehydration salts (ORS) are regarded as the gold standard in the treatment of diarrheal dehydration, yet it remains under-prescribed. According to the National Family Health Survey-5 (2019-21), ORS coverage among children under 5 years, though improving, still stands at only 60.6%.
“ORSL® is a priority brand in our global self-care portfolio,” said Manish Anandani, Managing Director of Kenvue India. “We continue to bring science-backed innovations to support faster recovery from both diarrheal and non-diarrheal illnesses. The launch of the new Ready-to-Drink ORS-WHO approved formula highlights our commitment to addressing diarrheal dehydration with a convenient, accurate, and effective solution.”
Prashant Shinde, Business Unit Head – Self Care at Kenvue, commented, "ORSL® pioneered the Ready-to-Drink hydration category for non-diarrheal conditions. With the introduction of Ready-to-Drink WHO ORS, we are now addressing diarrheal dehydration, further strengthening our position in hydration solutions."
A Kenvue study, published in the Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Sciences, revealed that errors in the preparation of powdered ORS solutions could compromise their effectiveness. These findings underscore the need for a more reliable solution like Ready-to-Drink ORS, which offers assured osmolarity and eliminates common preparation mistakes.
Dr. C. Suresh Kumar, Consultant Pediatrician at RVM Institute of Medical Sciences, Hyderabad, said, “WHO ORS is a gold standard in the treatment of diarrheal dehydration. Ready-to-drink formulations help ensure accurate osmolarity and speed up recovery, reducing hospitalisation and complications.”
The new product was introduced at Pedicon 2025, the 62nd National Conference of the Indian Academy of Paediatrics, where leading pediatricians pledged their support for the WHO ORS to reduce preventable child mortality caused by dehydration.
The Ready-to-Drink WHO ORS is now available in two flavours, Apple and Orange, offering a convenient and effective hydration solution for families and healthcare professionals across India.
