Protein Demand is Surging Under Ozempic. Here's Why Meat Producers Are Starting to Worry.

Since the FDA approval of semaglutide as a weight-loss treatment five years ago, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy have seen a significant increase in usage, with around one in eight American adults having taken a GLP-1 drug by November 2025. This surge in use has led to a shift in eating patterns, with consumers prioritizing smaller portions and higher-quality, nutrient-dense products over processed foods and high volumes of meat and dairy. Major food industry players like Nestlé and Conagra have responded by introducing products targeting GLP-1 users.

Meat producers, however, are starting to worry about what this trend could mean for long-term demand for their products. Research suggests that as GLP-1 users consume fewer processed foods and opt for whole foods like fruits and vegetables, there could be potential environmental benefits in terms of reduced CO₂ emissions. While the full impact of this dietary shift remains unclear, it is evident that the growing popularity of GLP-1 drugs is already causing ripple effects across the food system, prompting a reevaluation of consumer preferences and industry practices.