Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

Oral Clinical Nutrition Market Size

The global oral clinical nutrition market was valued at USD 32.2 billion in 2024. The market is anticipated to grow from USD 33.2 billion in 2025 to USD 54 billion in 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2034, according to the latest report published by Global Market Insights Inc. The upsurge in the market is substantially led by the escalating incidence of disease-related conditions and malnutrition. Chronic disease conditions such as cancer, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, chronic kidney disease, and post-surgical complications are the key contributors to the rising need for nutritional support.

In 2024, a research article published in Nutrients claimed that approximately one-third of the global population is suffering from protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). As nutrition deficit cases continue to rise globally, the demand for high-quality, personalized oral nutrition products is expanding and highlighting nutritional significance in clinical care.

Oral clinical nutrition focuses on evaluating and managing the individual’s nutritional status through dietary measures, which frequently involve oral nutritional supplements (ONS), to promote health, prevent disease, and support treatment. The key players in the industry are Abbott Nutrition, Danone, Nestle Health Science, and B. Braun, providing a wide range of clinically validated products tailored to diverse patient needs.

The rapidly growing elderly population worldwide is a primary driver in the oral clinical nutrition market. Aging is associated with physiological variations such as reduced appetite, impaired nutrient absorption, dental problems, and chronic diseases that raise the risk of malnutrition. The WHO projected that the number of people aged 60 and above will double by 2050, reaching 2.1 billion from 1 billion in 2020. This demographic rise is likely to transform the healthcare priorities, including nutritional management. As the elderly population surges, the nutritional needs and longer recovery periods fuel demand for easy-to-consume and clinically validated ONS, making clinical nutrition a cornerstone of elderly care.

Furthermore, the integration of nutritional therapy into national and global clinical guidelines has become a crucial driver in the expansion of the oral clinical nutrition market. Malnutrition is considered a modifiable risk factor that complicates patient recovery and leads to higher health costs. For instance, Nestle reported that malnutrition significantly reduces the quality of life, imposing a heavy economic burden. The patient with malnutrition incurs healthcare costs that are up to 3 times more than those of a well-nourished patient. In the U.S. alone, the disease-associated malnutrition contributes to an estimated USD 157 billion annually, considering direct medical costs, quality-adjusted life years lost, and mortality, whereas direct medical costs of disease-associated malnutrition totaled USD 15.5 billion. This growing economic burden prompts the need for effective nutritional therapies, bolstering market growth.

Oral clinical nutrition is a specialized nutrition that is formulated to meet the dietary needs of an individual through the oral route. These nutritional formulations are categorized into standard formulas and disease-specific formulas. These products are formulated to support patient recovery, nutritional deficit, manage disease-related malnutrition conditions, and overall individual health.

Oral Clinical Nutrition Market Trends

• The rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), and chronic respiratory diseases is likely to fuel the demand for clinical nutrition. These long-term diseases gradually impair the individual's nutritional state, necessitating the need for targeted dietary support and oral nutritional requirements.
  
• According to the WHO projections, NCDs are expected to account for 75% of global deaths, mounting from 63% in 2013. Cardiovascular diseases and cancer-related conditions are major health concerns, causing malnutrition. This emphasizes the importance of personalized oral nutrition support. As a result, increasing demand for clinical nutrition solutions among healthcare providers prioritizing personalized dietary interventions supports market growth.
  
• Further, supportive policies for nutritional management encourage wider adoption of clinical nutrition among consumers. For instance, the national health insurance programs in countries such as the UK (NHS) and Germany (G-BA) support reimbursement for ONS, contributing to higher demand. Routine malnutrition screening using tools like the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) has expanded the patient pool eligible for nutritional intervention, particularly in countries with mandatory screening policies.
  
• Additionally, increasing awareness of nutritional interventions by private and public organizations contributes to market adoption. For instance, organizations such as the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) strongly support routine nutritional screening and early intervention with ONS, particularly for susceptible patient groups. As reported by the NIH, over 97.7 million cases of malnutrition among the elderly were reported globally, which was a 1.2-fold increase from 44.4 million cases in 1990. These growing figures elevate oral nutritional therapy from an optional intervention to a medical necessity, emphasizing its vital role in modern healthcare delivery.
  
• Besides, the expansion of e-commerce and telehealth platforms has further accelerated access to clinical nutrition products, outpacing traditional hospital and pharmacy-based distribution channels.
  

Oral Clinical Nutrition Market Analysis

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Based on product, the oral clinical nutrition market is categorized into standard formulas and disease-specific formulas. The standard formula segment dominated the market and was valued at USD 18.3 billion in 2024 and is projected to witness robust growth over the analysis timeframe.

• The popularity of standard oral clinical nutrition formulas among diverse patient populations, such as post-surgical individuals, those experiencing malnutrition, and the elderly demographic, prompts the need for nutritional support.
  
• Standard formulas are most commonly prescribed during hospital discharge, in elder care facilities, and through outpatient nutrition programs. Their broad clinical utility and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for routine nutritional management, unlike disease-specific formulas, which are tailored for particular conditions such as renal disease or cancer and other specialized cases.
  
• Additionally, the widespread availability of standard formulas through retail pharmacies, e-commerce platforms, and hospital procurement systems significantly contribute to their market dominance. Their recognition in public healthcare nutrition initiatives further strengthens their position as the leading segment in the market.

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Based on consumer, the global oral clinical nutrition market is categorized into pediatric and adult. The adult segment dominated the market in 2024 with a share of 73.7% and is anticipated to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.4%.

• The adult segment leads the market due to the high prevalence of chronic conditions, age-related muscle loss, and nutritional deficiencies, particularly among elderly and middle-aged individuals, prompting the need for supplemental nutrition intake.
  
• In addition, adults represent the majority of hospital admissions as well as patient care cases, where ONS are frequently used to support recovery, maintain body weight, and enhance clinical outcomes.
  
• For instance, a comprehensive hospital-wide study in the UK found that 44% of adult inpatients were at risk of malnutrition based on the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), with nearly 40% of patients aged over 80 falling into the highest-risk category, highlighting the vulnerability of older adults to nutritional deficiencies. This nutritional deficit underscores the need for effective nutritional support, driving the demand for adult clinical oral nutrition in the market.
  

Based on application, the global oral clinical nutrition market is categorized into cancer care, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, malnutrition, and other applications. The malnutrition segment dominated the market with a 33.3% market share in 2024.

• Malnutrition is a prevalent condition often associated with various medical conditions and post-surgical recovery. Hence, oral clinical nutrition has become an essential tool to provide nutritional intervention in the form of oral supplements.
  
• The examples include Ensure, Fortisip, and Nutren, which are commonly prescribed to undernourished patients to boost their intake of calories and proteins.
  
• Additionally, to safeguard the vulnerable population, governments and healthcare institutions worldwide have implemented nutrition screening and support programs. This strategic initiative aimed to drive the consumption of standard and high-protein oral nutrition supplements.
  
• Extensive clinical use and institutional support are the key factors contributing to the segment's dominance in the global market.
  

Based on dosage form, the global oral clinical nutrition market is categorized into liquid, powder, and semi-solid. The powder segment dominated the market in 2024 and was valued at USD 15.8 billion and is anticipated to witness growth at a CAGR of 5.9%.

• The powder segment leads the market primarily due to its extended shelf life, which enhances its storage and transportation efficiency. Additionally, its environmentally friendly nature adds to its appeal.
  
• These nutritional powder products offer high versatility, allowing dilution to the desired concentration, making them an ideal choice for hospital and home care environments.
  
• For example, in September 2020, an abstract presented at the ESPEN Virtual Congress highlighted that the powdered ONS products are convenient, easy-to-use, and demonstrate strong patient compliance.
  
• Moreover, most therapeutic and elemental formulas, mainly those targeting disease-specific conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic syndromes, are widely available in powdered form. This widespread usage across both adult and pediatric populations has further solidified the segment’s leadership in the market.
  

Based on type, the global oral clinical nutrition market is classified into OTC and prescription. In 2024, the OTC segment held the highest market share and is expected to showcase significant growth over the analysis period with a CAGR of 5.7%.

• The OTC segment’s dominance was asserted due to high consumer preference for self-managed nutritional support, particularly for general malnutrition, aging-related deficiencies, and overall health.
  
• Some OTC products, including Ensure, Complan, Boost, Aymes, and Nutren, are commonly available without prescription, contributing to high volume sales.
  
• Further, retail pharmacies, e-commerce platforms, and supermarkets are major contributors, intensifying the distribution supporting OTC market growth.
  

Based on distribution channel, the global oral clinical nutrition market is classified into the offline channel and online channel. In 2024, the offline channel segment held the largest market share and is expected to showcase significant growth over the analysis period to reach USD 44.1 billion by 2034.

• The offline segment is further classified into hospital pharmacies, retail pharmacies, and other offline channels.
  
• The segment’s continued dominance is supported by strong consumer and institutional preference for in-person access to nutritional products.
  
• Prescription-based formulations and physician-guided therapies, particularly for patients with malnutrition conditions, post-surgical recovery, cancer, or chronic conditions, need in-person consultations and medical supervision, reinforcing the importance of offline sales.
  
• Additionally, bulk procurement by hospitals, elder care facilities, and nutrition clinics contributes significantly to offline settings.
  
• Moreover, regulatory constraints in some regions on the online sale of certain medical nutrition products further limit the growth of digital health channels, thereby strengthening the offline segment’s market position.

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North America Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

In 2024, North America accounted for 31% market share in the global market and is anticipated to witness high growth during the forecast timeframe.

• North America’s leadership was asserted due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness of nutritional therapies, and strong presence of leading key players in the region.
  
• The region benefits from widespread availability of OTC products, robust hospital procurement systems, and supportive government health initiatives.
  
• Additionally, the growing elderly population and rising prevalence of chronic diseases contribute to increased demand for ONS, reinforcing North America's leadership in this segment.
  

In 2024, the U.S. oral clinical nutrition market accounted for USD 9 billion in revenue from USD 8.7 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% during the analysis period.

• The U.S. is the largest consumer of oral clinical nutrition globally, driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high awareness of personalized and standard medical nutrition among healthcare professionals and sizable elderly population.
  
• The high acceptance of ONS across hospital care, long-term care facilities, and home recovery programs makes it a routine part of treatment for malnutrition and chronic diseases, bolstering its adoption.
  
• Additionally, favorable reimbursement policies offered by government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, along with private insurers, actively support medical nutrition therapy in various clinical scenarios, driving consumption.
  
• Furthermore, the strong presence of leading companies such as Abbott, with robust manufacturing and distribution networks, reinforces U.S. dominant position in the global market.
  

Europe Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

The Europe market accounted for USD 9.1 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to show lucrative growth over the forecast period.

• The regional expansion is fueled by rising adoption of diverse nutritional therapies, a large elderly population vulnerable to chronic conditions, and a stringent regulatory framework.
  
• Countries like Germany, France, the Netherlands, and the UK have well-established nutritional care protocols, especially in hospitals and elder care settings, encouraging their consumption. Organizations like ESPEN play a pivotal role by issuing evidence-based guidelines that promote standardized practice.
  
• Further, the growing elderly demographic and the high incidence of malnutrition among institutionalized seniors are further fueling the demand for ONS.
  
• Leading manufacturers like Danone Nutricia and Fresenius Kabi, along with supportive national reimbursement policies, are contributing to the market’s expansion.
  

Germany is poised to achieve significant growth in the European oral clinical nutrition market.

• Germany’s growth is supported by its robust healthcare infrastructure, comprehensive clinical nutrition protocols, and high awareness among healthcare professionals.
  
• The country has a well-established system for nutritional screening and intervention, particularly in hospitals and elder care settings.
  
• Germany also benefits from the presence of major industry players like Fresenius Kabi, which fosters innovation and distribution.
  
• Additionally, favorable government reimbursement policies and a growing elderly population continue to contribute to sustained demand for ONS, reinforcing Germany’s prominence in the regional market.
  

Asia Pacific Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

Asia Pacific is poised to grow at a significant rate in the global market over the next few years.

• This rapid growth is greatly influenced by demographic changes, increased healthcare spending, and the rise in chronic diseases.
  
• Countries like Japan, China, India, and South Korea are witnessing an upsurge of lifestyle-related diseases.
  
• Additionally, the gradual aging of the population makes the patient base even larger and grows rapidly, thus greatly increasing the need for nutritional intervention.
  
• Besides the fact that key market players are carrying out major operations in this region, local companies are also increasing production of more affordable formulations. For example, Meiji offers the MeiBalance line in Japan and Nestle introduced Resource Activ in India as a solution to the elderly’s nutrition issues.
  
• The progress of products is being influenced by cultural inclinations for supplements that are plant-based or locally made.
  
• Although there are differences among regions concerning income and healthcare availability, the move towards preventive care and recovery at home is fueling the need for products in cities.
  

China is anticipated to grow significantly within the Asia Pacific clinical nutrition market.

• China is expected to witness substantial growth driven by rising healthcare investments, increasing awareness of nutritional therapies, and a rapidly growing aging population.
  
• The country is experiencing a surge in demand for ONS due to the growing prevalence of chronic diseases and malnutrition.
  
• Additionally, supportive government policies, expanding hospital infrastructure, and the presence of both domestic and international nutrition brands further position China as a key growth engine in the regional market.
  

Latin America Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

Brazil is projected to witness significant growth in the Latin America market in the coming years.

• Brazil’s growth is fueled by increasing healthcare investments, rising awareness of nutritional therapies, and a growing burden of chronic diseases and malnutrition.
  
• Brazil’s expanding hospital infrastructure, government-led nutrition programs, and improving access to clinical nutrition products are key drivers.
  
• Additionally, the presence of both local and international manufacturers and a large aging population contribute to Brazil’s emergence as a major market within the region.
  

Middle East and Africa Oral Clinical Nutrition Market

Saudi Arabia is poised to witness substantial growth in the Middle East and Africa market during the forecast period.

• Saudi Arabia's oral clinical nutrition market is rapidly expanding, largely due to improving healthcare infrastructure coupled with increased emphasis on chronic disease management.
  
• Rising awareness among healthcare professionals about the importance of preventing hospital-acquired malnutrition is further boosting the demand for ONS. For example, Gulf countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar feature modern hospitals and private clinics that actively incorporate clinical nutrition extensively into patient care for oncology and post-ICU recovery.
  
• The aforementioned factors further solidify Saudi Arabia’s leading position in the market.
  

Oral Clinical Nutrition Market Share

The top 5 leading players in the global market, including Nestle Health Science, Abbott (Nutrition), Danone (Nutricia), Fresenius Kabi, and B. Braun collectively accounted for over 50-55% of the market share. These companies leverage an extensive portfolio, global distribution, and strong clinical research foundations to maintain their competitive edge. Their market dominance is further reinforced through continuous product innovation, regulatory approvals, and strategic collaborations with healthcare providers.

In addition, numerous local and regional players are intensifying competition by offering cost-effective alternatives. These companies are actively pursuing strategies such as mergers, acquisitions, and the launch of innovative products to broaden their offerings and strengthen their market position.

Oral Clinical Nutrition Market Companies

Few of the prominent players operating in the oral clinical nutrition industry include:

• Abbott Nutrition
• AYMES Nutrition
• B. Braun 
• Danone
• Fresenius Kabi
• GlaxoSmithKline
• Kate Farms
• Mead Johnson (Reckitt)
• Medifood International
• Meiji Holdings
• Nestle Health Science
• Nutriset
• Otsuka Pharmaceutical
• Pfizer
  
• Abbott

Abbot offers a robust portfolio including pediatric and adult nutrition products such as Ensure, Glucerna and Pedialyte backed by extensive clinical research. The company's nutrition business strength lies in pediatric care and chronic disease management. Abbott's focus on innovation in personalized nutrition, combined with its global presence, has strengthened and reinforced its position in the global market.

• Nestle Health Science

Nestle Health Science focuses on disease-specific nutrition, addressing areas such as metabolic disorders and cancer support. The company has strengthened its offerings through strategic alliances with leading stakeholders, such as acquisitions and collaborations, along with the integration of digital platforms, which have enhanced its offering in enhanced care. The company’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and a broad product portfolio positions it among the leaders in the evolving oral clinical nutrition landscape.

• Fresenius Kabi

Fresenius Kabi stands out for its expertise in parenteral nutrition and infusion therapies. It offers inclusive solutions for hospital and home care settings. Its focus on safety, innovation, and global manufacturing capabilities make it a key player in the global oral clinical nutrition sector.

Oral Clinical Nutrition Industry News

• In July 2024, Vitaflo, a Nestle Health Science subsidiary, invested over EUR 8 million to expand its Rosbach vor der Hohe facility near Frankfurt, Germany. The move boosts global distribution of its brands COMIDAMED, a powdered protein substitute, and MEVALIA, to 40+ countries. This expansion aimed to address the demand for infant formula and protein substitutes for PKU and other inborn disorders, improving access to essential nutrition.
  
• In April 2024, Nestle India entered into a collaborative agreement with Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories to form a joint venture to deliver innovative solutions across wellness, hospital nutrition, women’s and child health in India. This strategic alliance is poised to accelerate growth in the oral clinical nutrition market, expanding access to advanced nutritional therapies and driving innovation in patient-centric care across diverse health categories.
  
• In November 2023, Abbott India introduced PediaSure with the Nutri-Pull System featuring key ingredients like vitamin K2, vitamin D, vitamin C, and casein phosphopeptides (CPPs) to support pediatric nutrition solutions. This product launch aimed to address the growing demand for targeted nutritional solutions among children, supporting their holistic development.
  

The oral clinical nutrition market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecasts in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

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Market, By Product

• Standard formulas
• Disease-specific formulas

Market, By Consumer

• Pediatric
• Adult

Market, By Application

• Cancer care
• Chronic kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Malnutrition
• Other applications

Market, By Dosage Form

• Liquid
• Powder
• Semi-solid

Market, By Distribution Channel

• Offline channel
  • Hospital pharmacies
  • Retail pharmacies
  • Other offline channels
• Online channel

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE