Introduction
Lozenges are a popular form of medication that are designed to dissolve slowly in the mouth to release medicinal ingredients. They are commonly used to relieve sore throats, coughs, and other respiratory ailments. In this report, we will explore the process of how lozenges are made, from the active ingredients to the production of the final hard candy product.
Active Ingredients
The first step in making lozenges is to determine the active ingredients that will be used. These can vary depending on the desired effect of the lozenge. Common ingredients include menthol, eucalyptus, honey, and various herbal extracts. These ingredients are carefully measured and mixed together to create the medicinal blend that will be incorporated into the lozenge.
Industry Insights
The global lozenge market is expected to grow at a steady pace in the coming years. Factors such as the increasing prevalence of respiratory ailments, the rising demand for natural and herbal remedies, and the growing awareness of self-medication are driving the growth of the lozenge industry. Major players in the market include Ricola, Mondelez International, and Reckitt Benckiser.
Formulation and Mixing
Once the active ingredients have been selected, they are mixed with other ingredients such as sugar, corn syrup, and flavorings to create a syrupy mixture. This mixture is then heated to a specific temperature to ensure that all the ingredients are well blended. The syrup is then poured into molds to cool and solidify.
Financial Data
The cost of producing lozenges can vary depending on factors such as the cost of raw materials, labor, and equipment. On average, it can cost between $0.10 to $0.30 to produce a single lozenge. Companies in the industry typically aim for profit margins of around 20% to 30%.
Molding and Shaping
Once the syrup has solidified, it is removed from the molds and shaped into the desired lozenge form. This can be done using a variety of methods, including cutting, stamping, or extrusion. The lozenges are then inspected for quality and consistency before moving on to the next step in the production process.
Volume and Trends
The global market for lozenges is expected to reach a volume of over 100 billion units by 2025. This growth is driven by factors such as the increasing demand for over-the-counter medications, the rising popularity of natural and herbal remedies, and the growing awareness of the benefits of self-medication.
Hard Candy Production
After the lozenges have been molded and shaped, they undergo a process to harden and coat them. This involves heating the lozenges to a specific temperature to evaporate excess moisture and create a hard candy shell. The lozenges are then coated with sugar or other flavorings to enhance their taste.
Actual Companies
Companies involved in the production of lozenges include Ricola, a Swiss manufacturer known for its herbal lozenges, Mondelez International, which produces a range of confectionery products including lozenges, and Reckitt Benckiser, a multinational consumer goods company that manufactures healthcare products including lozenges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the production of lozenges involves a careful process of selecting active ingredients, formulating and mixing them, molding and shaping the lozenges, and finally hardening and coating them to create the final product. The global market for lozenges is expected to continue growing, driven by factors such as the increasing demand for respiratory remedies and the popularity of self-medication. Companies in the industry are constantly innovating to meet consumer demand and stay competitive in the market.
