Is Ozempic crushing the junk food business?

The rise of Ozempic and similar weightloss drugs has the potential to shake up the junk food industry. As millions of Americans turn to GLP-1 drugs to curb their appetites, many are no longer craving the sugary, ultra-processed foods that the Big Food has banked on for decades.

Instead, users are reaching for healthier, whole foods like fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, a shift that has been disruptive to snack and fast-food sales.

It is already making an impact: Sales of sweets, baked goods and treats are down, and food innovation is slowing.

Industry leaders are taking notice
Studies suggest that by 2035, more than 24 million Americans will be using weightloss drugs. And this is a challenge for Big Food. Companies are scrambling to adjust their products to meet the new demands.

Some corporations have already started creating smaller portions and incorporating more natural ingredients in their offerings, while others, like Coca-Cola’s Fairlife protein shakes, are gaining popularity among GLP-1 users.

As the appetite for junk food wanes, organizations will need to rethink their strategies and products to cater to a new era of health-conscious consumers.