In this episode of Oh For Food’s Sake, we explore one of the hottest and most impactful topics currently swirling around the food industry: GLP-1 drugs (think Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro). With these "wonder drugs" becoming more and more mainstream—not just as treatments for type 2 diabetes but as formidable tools for weight loss—they’re shaking up not only health narratives but also how, what, and why people eat. We unpack how these drugs dull appetite, reduce “food noise,” and could seriously shift the demand for everything from indulgent snacks to the next big protein or hydration trend. We tackle the challenge head-on: what does this seismic shift mean for product development, menu offering, and even the emotional ties we all have to food? Beyond the technical talk, we explore the emotional impact, societal divide, and unintended consequences for consumers and businesses. If you work in or with food—and haven’t clocked the GLP-1 tidal wave yet—this is your wake-up (and it’s anything but boring).
This week, we unwrap our thoughts on the rapid rise of GLP-1 drugs and the ripple effect they’re having on the food industry. As these medications suppress appetite and cut down on the relentless mental chatter many people feel about food, what happens to the classic patterns of eating—and, by extension, to the businesses that rely on them?
Lucy shares personal anecdotes about the sensory and habitual aspects of eating, above and beyond simple hunger. At the same time, Amy draws parallels to the emotional journey faced by those who’ve had gastric surgery.
Together, we highlight why this drug-fuelled drop in cravings—especially for calorie-dense snacks—will likely prompt fast and creative adaptation by manufacturers, retailers, and restaurants.
The episode also examines the ethical nuance: GLP-1 drugs are readily accessible to those who can afford them, but is this tech-driven appetite control just the next “celebrity fad” or a real tool for public health? And what about unintended consequences, like fibre-deficient diets or rising consumer inequalities?
We also talk practicalities for food developers: it’s time to rethink portion control, boost fibre, and perhaps get creative with “healthier treats.”
We round things off by reminding us that food isn’t just fuel—it’s social, emotional, and deeply human. Whether you’re ready or not, the intersection of pharma and food is here, and this episode helps you get a grip on what’s coming next.
Timestamps:
00:01:15: GLP1 Drugs and the Food Industry
00:01:30How GLP1 Drugs Work
00:03:59 Appetite, Food Noise & The Human Side
00:06:53 Broader Societal Implications
00:09:56 Demographics & Accessibility
00:13:32 What Does It Mean for Food Businesses?
00:17:01 Product Innovation & The Future of Treats
00:21:48 Wrapping Up & Call to Action
Links and Resources:
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Oh For Food's Sake is sponsored by Microsearch Laboratories https://micro-search.co.uk/ and Point 74 https://www.point74.co.uk/
See you next time!