GLP-1s Shrink Grocery Spending

Grocery budgets are slimming down.

The latest: New research reveals spending declines across food categories as GLP-1 adoption accelerates.

Downsize. Households with GLP-1 users cut grocery spending by 6% within six months of starting medication, translating to annual savings of $416. Higher-income consumers reduced spending by 8.6%, gaining $690 per year.

Picky eaters. Ultra-processed foods, including calorie-dense snacks and sweets, saw the steepest decline (down 11%), while yogurt, meat snacks, and fresh produce gained slightly.

Ripple effects. Spending reductions diminish after six months, but remain statistically significant — suggesting lasting behavioral changes that could reshape the food industry.

Racing to evolve, food giants are launching GLP-1 companion products—from ready-made meals to “muscle defense” beverages—loaded with protein and fiber.

Ahead of the curve, better-for-you brands offering low-sugar, high-protein, and clean-ingredient options can capitalize.

Looking ahead: With nearly half of people using GLP-1s for weight loss rather than diabetes management, and a third paying out-of-pocket, eating habits are transforming beyond medical necessity.