GLP-1 drugs drive new innovation in frozen foodsGLP-1 drugs drive new innovation in frozen foods
The popularity of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic is a key factor set to impact frozen food purchases in 2025, according to industry experts.

At a Glance
- The increasing use of GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic is influencing consumer demand for frozen foods.
- GLP-1 users prioritize products that are low in calories, high in protein and rich in fiber to meet their nutritional needs.
- Companies like Conagra are taking steps to cater specifically to GLP-1 users by introducing new labeling systems, products.
According to a new Future of Frozen Food report by Conagra Brands, increasing adoption of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) drugs as a key driver expected to impact frozen foods — an industry that achieved $91.3 billion in sales for the 52 weeks ending Oct. 20, 2024, per data from Circana and cited in the report.
GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic have spiked in popularity, representing a market that’s expected to exceed $100 billion by 2030, according to J.P. Morgan Research. The frozen foods aisle, which offers a wide variety of options and convenience for health-focused consumers, is of particular interest to GLP-1 users and uniquely positioned to benefit from expanding use of the medications.
“The frozen food sector is well-positioned to support consumers in their healthy eating goals,” Mary Emma Young, VP of communications at the American Frozen Food Institute (AFFI), said. “For example, frozen meals come in pre-portioned servings that meet the needs of GLP-1 users.”
Frozen food categories that are seeing the most spending among GLP-1 users include single-serve meals, multi-serve meals and appetizers, per Conagra’s report. Health-focused, single-serve frozen meals are experiencing the largest growth.
The report also highlighted that Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs are used by approximately 15 million Americans for weight loss and treatment of type 2 diabetes, per data from Numerator. Classified as GLP-1 agonists, the injectable drugs work by stimulating the hormone GLP-1 to promote insulin production and delay gastric emptying.
Chief among the effects of GLP-1 drugs is decreased appetite, which helps its users to lose weight. The Numerator data further showed consumers who use GLP-1 drugs exclusively for weight loss constitute the bulk of the drugs’ growth over the last year and a half.
The reduction in appetite among GLP-1 users, however, can also lead to a decrease in intake of nutrients critical for good health. That’s led to greater demand for food options that support the unique nutrition needs of the medication’s users.
According to Conagra’s report, GLP-1 users seek out products that are low calorie, high protein and a good source of fiber.
In January 2025, the company added an “On Track” badge to the labels of its Healthy Choice Café Steamers and Simply Steamers products to indicate the products are high protein, low calorie and a good source of fiber. The new labeling makes Healthy Choice the first major food brand to call out “GLP-1 Friendly” on its package, per the company.
Jill Dexter, VP and general manager of single-serve meals at Conagra Brands, said the new label provides consumers with “clear guidance” and “trusted meal options,” in a press release.
Frozen produce, too, is attracting health-conscious consumers like GLP-1 users, according to Young.
“By locking in farm-fresh produce or just-cooked recipes with freezing, healthier eating becomes more accessible and available,” she explained. “Frozen fruits and vegetables come peeled and chopped, ready to add into mealtime, while still holding the same nutritional value.”
She cited a 2022 AFFI survey showing 86% of consumers agreed that frozen fruits and vegetables make it easier to eat more produce.
The growing popularity of GLP-1 medications presents a significant opportunity for the frozen food industry, which is uniquely positioned to cater to health-focused consumers with convenient, nutrient-rich options that align with their dietary needs and goals.
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