GLP-1 drugs are changing how Americans eat. Food companies are racing to catch up
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By Amelia Lucas
Published on March 21, 2026.
The cost of GLP-1 drugs is decreasing, and pill versions are being introduced into the U.S. market, posing a threat to restaurant chains and snacking giants for both companies due to the increasing adoption of weight loss and diabetes treatments. The drugs slow digestion, suppress users' appetites and increase satiety, leading to lower calorie consumption and lower grocery bills for adults who use them. JPMorgan estimates that the growing use of these medications could wipe out $30 billion to $55 billion in annual sales for the food and beverage industry by 2030. However, this shift presents an opportunity for restaurants and food companies to offer more protein- and fiber-rich options to win over GLP/1 consumers. The shift to healthier foods is seen as a shift towards healthier snacking, with 70% of users reporting consuming fewer calories while taking the medications, according to a survey by EY-Parthenon. The effects of these drugs have not been evenly distributed across the industry, with 60% of respondents dining out less frequently and 45% of full-service restaurants drinking less alcohol.
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