Dairy Products Gain Popularity Among GLP-1 Weight Loss Consumers

According to the Dairy Trends Report 2026 by IFF, the rise of GLP-1 weight loss drugs is impacting consumer choices in the grocery sector, with the dairy segment being notably affected. Consumers using GLP-1s are turning to nutrient-dense dairy products to balance their reduced caloric intake while ensuring muscle preservation.

The report indicates that households with GLP-1 users consume yogurt at nearly three times the rate of the average household. This shift is part of a broader trend of 'considered consumption,' where consumers are making more deliberate purchasing decisions based on factors like nutrition, social impact, and sustainability.

Richard Neish, director of CI Trend Intelligence at IFF Taste, stated that consumers are increasingly evaluating products based on their ecological footprint and broader purpose. The report outlines five themes influencing the sector, including the demand for functional health products and the integration of artificial intelligence in product innovation.

In certain markets such as China and Brazil, yogurt is perceived as a functional health product, offering opportunities for dairy products to support users of appetite-suppressing medications. Additionally, there is a growing interest in cheese varieties that combine nutrition with emotional comfort.

Environmental concerns are also reshaping consumer preferences, with younger demographics in the U.S. and U.K. showing keen interest in how dairy products are sourced and produced. The use of AI in dairy production is noted as a trend, although transparency and craftsmanship remain important to consumers.