As more consumers explore GLP-1 medications as part of their weight-management journey, the food industry can support shoppers with nutrition guidance, practical wellness resources and connected food, pharmacy and health services that help turn health goals into sustainable habits.
By: Kim Visioni, MS, RDN, LDN, Director, Health & Well-being, FMI
As GLP-1 medications reshape the conversation around weight management, food retailers and product suppliers have an opportunity to help consumers turn health goals into sustainable everyday habits. While these medications can be effective tools for weight loss and improved health, long-term success depends on building healthy eating patterns, meeting nutrient needs, staying physically active and developing lifestyle behaviors that can be maintained over time. FMI's updated fact sheet, Understanding Weight Loss Medications, provides an overview of GLP-1-based medications, emerging developments and opportunities for the food industry.
Consumers using GLP-1 medications commonly experience reduced appetite, leading to smaller portion sizes and a greater focus on hydration and nutrient-dense foods, including those rich in protein and fiber. These changes can create a need for individualized nutrition guidance, support for managing side effects and practical strategies for maintaining long-term healthy behaviors. Retailers can support consumers with evidence-based resources while reinforcing the grocery store’s role as a trusted destination for health and well-being.
FMI recently added new examples to the Grocery Health Hub Case Studies that highlight how retailers are supporting shoppers focused on weight management, including those using GLP-1 medications. Examples include:
Curated product assortments and shopping tools that help shoppers identify foods and other products that support their weight management goals.
Convenient meal solutions and product innovation designed to meet changing nutritional needs and preferences.
Educational resources, including shopping guides, brochures, videos, recipes and meal-planning tools that make healthy eating easier.
Registered dietitian services such as wellness programs and one-on-one counseling.
Pharmacy support including medication education, affordability resources and side-effect management guidance.
Digital health and wellness platforms that provide personalized recommendations, nutrition insights, wellness tracking tools and health-related resources.
Telehealth, primary care and healthcare partnerships that provide coordinated support for healthy lifestyles and chronic disease management.
The most comprehensive programs bring together food, nutrition, pharmacy and healthcare services into one connected experience for consumers. As more shoppers explore GLP-1 medications and other weight-management strategies, grocery stores are uniquely positioned to help them navigate changing nutrition needs, build healthy habits and translate health goals into everyday food choices.
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