They’re not biting.
As Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs change the way America eats, food manufacturers are trying to whip themselves up a forkful of the action — with heavies like Conagra Brands and Nestlé announcing new diet-compatible product lines in recent months.
So far, however, nutrition experts seem unimpressed — with some saying that the processed eats and other products capitalizing on the trend are little more than a “marketing ploy” that can easily be left on the table.
“Because GLP-1s suppress appetite, people taking these medications should be mindful about including nutrient-dense foods to make sure they reach their daily goals, including prioritizing foods that contain fiber and protein,” explained dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S. RD, in a recent article published by EatingWell.
“That said, I don’t think it’s necessary to seek out foods with these claims if you’re taking a GLP-1 medication. Instead, just focus on eating foods rich in fiber and protein,” she said.
Conagra announced in December that as of this month, some of their Healthy Choice meals will now be designated as GLP-1 friendly, the outlet reported.
Nestlé launched a new line, branded as Vital Pursuit, last fall — featuring dishes like a Southwest Style Chicken Fajita Sandwich Melt and Vermont White Cheddar Mac & Broccoli Bowl with Cavatappi Protein Pasta.
Nestlé has even taken things a step further, recently launching protein shake “shots” designed to help suppress appetite the way medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound do.
Called Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support and designed to be downed shortly before a meal, they’re packed with whey protein.
“You get an increase in natural GLP-1 which helps in controlling the feeling of hunger. So this dose has a significant effect on satiety,” Stefan Palzer, chief technology officer at Nestle, told Reuters at the time of launch.
And while these products may appear to walk the walk, there’s a catch, particularly when it comes to frozen food, the meal-prep pros at EatingWell warn.
“It’s … important to note that many premade meals are also high in sodium. So while they’re portion-controlled, you might end up with more sodium than is healthy—and the sodium bloat to go along with it,” the writer noted.
“Food manufacturers do a good job of keeping up with the latest trends and marketing foods in a way that attracts certain customers—in this case, people taking GLP-1s,” they continued.
“Ultimately, however, calling certain products “GLP-1-friendly” is a bit of a marketing ploy, as the foods are simply high-fiber and high-protein—something you can make for yourself.”
The food industry isn’t the only one shook by the slimming trend — some gyms have noticed a decline in attendance as weight-loss drug users stay away, for example.
Roughly 15.5 million people — approximately 6% of US adults — have already turned to the injectables for help with weight management, The Post previously reported.
