The world’s biggest CPG is using AI and nutritional science to develop products tailored to GLP-1 users.

Nestlé has announced plans to develop products aimed specifically at users of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, using nutritional science alongside artificial intelligence (AI). 

As these drugs shift demand toward high-protein, nutrient-dense products, the trend is directly relevant to dairy — a key protein source — and Nestlé’s dairy portfolio is well suited to such solutions, DairyReporter reports.

Innovating for GLP-1 users

Nestlé is using AI and nutritional science to develop tailored products for the millions taking GLP-1 drugs worldwide. Per chief technology officer Stefan Palzer, scientists have studied the effects of rapid weight loss — «Ozempic face», muscle loss, nutrient deficiencies, dehydration and fatigue — and are developing products to help address them. 

«We are well positioned with the portfolio. It’s a huge opportunity for our company», he told Reuters. 

The CPG giant uses AI to process large volumes of clinical research and identify nutrient combinations supporting muscle health, hydration and nutrient intake; it found and industrialised a combination of two micronutrients that stimulate muscle-tissue growth. 

Nestlé has also patented ingredient combinations for consumers coming off GLP-1s to curb rebound hunger, and uses AI to simulate consumer behaviour and spot reformulation opportunities within a database of roughly 120,000 recipes.

GLP-1: threat or opportunity?

The move comes as food and beverage firms grapple with rapidly growing GLP-1 use. 

By reducing hunger and slowing gastric emptying, drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy and Mounjaro lead consumers to eat and snack less and choose more selectively — a long-term challenge for volume-driven manufacturers. 

GLP-1 users are more likely to cut discretionary purchases (salty snacks, sugary drinks, indulgent products), while demand shifts toward higher-value foods rich in protein, fibre and micronutrients. 

Rather than viewing GLP-1s as a threat, many firms — like Nestlé — are now exploring ways to serve consumers seeking weight management, muscle retention and nutritional wellbeing, with the drugs expected to increasingly shape product development across the sector.

Source: DairyReporter