Food giant Nestle is developing new “companion” items that are suitable for people using Wegovy and Ozempic to ensure people still buy its products amid the rise in weight-loss drugs.
Fear amongst junk food companies is starting to creep in after weight-loss injections are surging in popularity, potentially putting their sales at risk of decline.
This month, Nestle saw a drop in its shares after the international retailer Walmart reported people were reducing their food intake due to the appetite-suppressing injections.
- NHS receives limited stock of weight-loss injection
- Wegovy reduces risk of heart attacks and strokes by a fifth
- Weight loss jab associated with gastrointestinal problems
Mark Schneider, CEO of Nestle, said: “We’re working already on a wide range of products that could serve as companion products.
“When you eat less, you have certain needs of vitamins, minerals and supplements. You want to be sure that the weight loss gets supported. You want to be sure that you limit the loss of lean muscle mass.”
He added: “The largest parts of our portfolio will not be affected’ by this new breed of weight loss drugs. We’re watching this carefully and will keep you updated.”
People using Wegovy can lose around 15% of their body weight because the drug makes them feel full for a longer period of time.
Data shows that more than nine million prescriptions for weight-loss drugs were handed out around the world in the last three months of 2022.
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- Semaglutide hailed for obesity
Experts say that this figure has most likely skyrocketed this year as Ozempic and Wegovy have significantly grew in popularity over the last 12 months.
According to retailers, the growing use of weight-loss injections have had a noticeable effect on grocery hauls and restaurant orders.
Pamela Kaufman, Morgan Stanley’s food analyst, said: “The food, beverage and restaurant industries could see softer demand, particularly for unhealthier foods and high-fat, sweet and salty options.”
