In the glitzy world of the Grammys and Oscars, an unexpected topic of discussion emerged – Ozempic, a drug designed to suppress the appetite. It belongs to the semaglutide class of GLP-1 drugs, which are primarily used to treat Type 2 diabetes by regulating blood sugar. Experts estimate that about 5% of Americans use a GLP-1 drug, but those using Ozempic strictly for weight loss make up an even smaller portion of the population.
According to Darren Seifer from Circana, approximately 30% of Americans have expressed interest in the drug, but its accessibility is currently limited. The steep cost of a prescription, around $1,000 per month, means that only consumers with disposable income or those who benefit from a co-pay arrangement through a prescription can afford sustained usage. However, should the drug become more affordable and approachable, it’s something marketing and retail companies need to keep on their radars.
“Until then, it is too early to predict changes in food retail sales associated with Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs.” – Darren Seifer, Circana
Findings from research conducted by Seifer’s company, The New Consumer, revealed something interesting. Surveyed Americans across all age groups, excluding Gen Z, expressed a desire to be 25% healthier. This is hardly surprising given the fact that 40% of adult Americans are dealing with obesity.
‘Longevity’ may be a growing buzzword, but it opens up discussion about the necessity of drugs to achieve a healthier weight. Do these medications promote wellness, replace healthier lifestyle practices, or draw concerns about long-term effects? It emphasizes the need for individuals to consult with medical professionals when considering a new medication and highlights the value of integrating all forms of healthy habits into their daily routines for optimal wellness results. Hopefully, this includes indulging in a healthy serving of nutritious dairy products.
Although it’s a bit early to discern the full impact of GLP-1 drugs on consumer habits, their usage might indeed boost the dairy industry. Dairy foods, with their high protein content and an abundance of essential nutrients, could be a prime choice for those using Ozempic. They’re seeking fulfilling, health-focused food purchases, and dairy certainly fits the bill.
Snack food companies, on the other hand, might need to think about a rebrand or introducing options with smaller portions. If the Ozempic trend becomes dominant, there’s a chance consumers will move away from tempting, fast-fix options. This was a sentiment agreed upon by Dan Frommer, a co-guest on the podcast, who believes it’s too early to forecast the changes in food retail sales tied to Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs.
Interestingly, Frommer referred to research conducted by his company, ‘The New Consumer’. The research shows that when faced with a choice between being 25% healthier or having a 25% higher income, Americans from all generations (except Gen Z) opted for better health. Given that around 40% of adult Americans are categorized as obese, this choice doesn’t surprise much. It does, however, highlight how severe the health situation is for many.
“At the highest level, Americans are not well,” Frommer noted. Or to put it more plainly, a drug that can mitigate heart disease and weight gain can lead to longer lives – and that’s something society seems to be rooting for.
Resorting to drugs to obtain a healthy weight makes for a profound statement about our society. Do these medicines foster wellness lifestyles, or do they replace them? What are the long-term effects, and does discontinuing the medication pave the way for regression? Frommer and Seifer stress that these questions need to be asked, even if answers are not immediately available.
For those who necessitate the drug for medical reasons and experience relief, the reviews are almost universally positive. Always remember, everyone is unique, and any drug will affect each person differently. As you consider a new medication, it’s imperative to discuss your options with a medical professional and incorporate all forms of healthy lifestyle habits into your daily routine. This will hopefully include regular servings of nutritious dairy products.
