By Lew Kizer — 2026-10-24 — Prepared Food Trends
The short answer
An EY-Parthenon survey of nearly 15,000 people, including 3,602 current or former GLP-1 users, reported by CBS News on October 22, 2026, found about 54% of semaglutide users take it for weight loss, now more than for other medical reasons. Among GLP-1 users, 63% cut back on sweet snacks and 57% on salty snacks, and about half increased spending on fitness.
Key facts
- Nearly 15,000 people surveyed, including 3,602 current or former GLP-1 users.
- About 54% of semaglutide users take it to lose weight.
- 63% of GLP-1 users cut sweet snacks; 57% cut salty snacks.
- 72% bought smaller clothing sizes; about half spent more on fitness.
- Retailers are adding protein-enhanced items and smaller portions.
KINGSPORT, Tenn., Oct. 24, 2026 — GLP-1 medicines started as diabetes drugs. A new consumer survey says weight loss is now the main reason people take them, and their shopping carts show it.
What the survey found
Consulting firm EY-Parthenon surveyed nearly 15,000 people, including 3,602 current or former GLP-1 users, CBS News reported on October 22.
| Finding | Share |
|---|---|
| Semaglutide users taking it for weight loss | About 54% |
| GLP-1 users cutting back on sweet snacks | 63% |
| Cutting back on salty snacks | 57% |
| Bought smaller clothing sizes | 72% |
| Spent more on fitness | About half |
“Everyone accepts that this is a structural change that's not going away.” — Don Johnson, principal, EY-Parthenon
What it means for the plate
Eating less makes each meal more important. Our new GLP-1 grocery list covers what to keep on hand, and our guide to tracking muscle and fat explains why protein matters.
“You don't have to figure out the macros. You don't have to wonder if the portions are right. We've already done that work. All you have to do is eat.” — Lew Kizer, Founder, SmashMeals
See our GLP-1 meal planning page or order this week's meals.
Commentary, not medical advice
The SmashMeals perspective
We see this in our own orders. People on these medicines are not looking for diet food. They want smaller portions with real protein, food that sits well, and less guesswork. The snack aisle is shrinking for them, and the plate matters more. That is the shift the food industry is finally catching up to.
Frequently asked questions
How do GLP-1 medicines change what people buy?
In EY-Parthenon's 2026 survey, 63% of GLP-1 users cut back on sweet snacks and 57% on salty snacks, and users drank less alcohol and favored healthier products.
Why do most people take GLP-1 medicines now?
The survey found about 54% of semaglutide users take it for weight loss, more than for other medical reasons such as diabetes.
What foods work best on a GLP-1?
Many clinicians suggest protein at every meal, smaller portions and fewer greasy foods. Ask your care team for targets that fit you.
Sources and credits
Follow the original sources for context and verification. A reference is not an endorsement of SmashMeals.
- More people now use GLP-1s for weight loss than for other health conditions, research finds (opens in a new tab)
CBS News
Why it matters: Reports the survey findings and EY-Parthenon's commentary.