CHICAGO, June 4, 2025 — The appetite suppressants known as GLP-1s are already altering the dining-out habits of consumers who’ve been prescribed the medications to lose weight or counter diabetes, according to a new study of the drugs’ impact on the food-away-from-home business.
The report found that at least a third of current users and individuals interested in trying the medications are committed to eating smaller portions of fewer, less-indulgent foods during treatment. Lean proteins and plant-based items were identified as the most desirable fare, while products abounding in salt, fat and sugar were the ones most avoided by the users.
Similarly, 23% of the current and intended dieters anticipate drinking only water during the regimen of injections. More than 1 in 5 cited coffees and alcoholic beverages as liquids to be shunned.
Nearly 40% said they intend to drink less soda.
The dietary impact is most profound at breakfast, according to the report, which is based on a survey in April of 1,505 consumers. Seven percent of current and intended GLP-1 users said the morning meal is where they have or plan to cut back.
The data also show GLP-1 users being far more thoughtful in deciding where they’ll buy their meals. The numbers show a likely decrease in traffic across all segments of the food-away-from-home business, with the impact least detrimental to fine-dining restaurants and the greatest drop-off affecting convenience stores.
The research found that about 6% of consumers are currently using a GLP-1, while another 5% said they’ve already completed the weight-loss regimen.
Another 22% indicated that they’re interested in trying the drugs.
“As these medications become more accessible, a slight increase in interest and usage is expected,” the report concluded.
The research was conducted by the research firm Datassentials for IFMA The Food Away from Home Association.
The report is part of the ongoing CORG series of proprietary research conducted by the association for its members. It is available as a standard benefit to Tier 3 IFMA members. Others can purchase the data via the association’s online store.
As Managing Editor for IFMA The Food Away from Home Association, Romeo is responsible for generating the group's news and feature content. He brings more than 40 years of experience in covering restaurants to the position.