Healthy Snacks Challenge Chips, Wings and Pizza for Super Bowl Fans

Rising use of weight-loss drugs like GLP-1 medications is changing food consumption habits for the big game

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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As more Americans gain access to cheaper weight-loss medication like GLP-1 drugs, food companies are adjusting their Super Bowl offerings to cater to health-conscious consumers. Retiree Marla Senzon and her husband have swapped out their traditional Super Bowl spread of pizza, pasta and Chinese takeout for salads and light proteins as they watch the big game. Food brands are responding by adding more high-protein, high-fiber and lower-sugar options to their menus, while also offering smaller portion sizes.

Why it matters

The growing popularity of weight-loss medications is significantly impacting the food industry, as GLP-1 users consume roughly 40% fewer calories. This translates to 4-6% smaller grocery baskets and 4-5% less spending on fast food, forcing food companies to rethink their product lineups and marketing for major events like the Super Bowl.

The details

Food companies are confronting two trends - reduced consumption among weight-loss drug users and consumers frustrated with higher prices. Roughly 12% of Americans are now on GLP-1 drugs, according to analysts. In response, brands like PepsiCo are selling smaller portions and creating products with more fiber and protein. Restaurants are also adapting, with Chipotle adding a high-protein menu featuring items like a cup of grilled chicken.

  • The Super Bowl will be played on Sunday, February 9, 2026.
  • Marla Senzon and her husband began taking a GLP-1 appetite-suppressing medication two years ago.

The players

Marla Senzon

A Florida retiree who, along with her husband, has changed their Super Bowl eating habits since starting a GLP-1 weight-loss medication two years ago.

Ryan Zink

The CEO of Colorado-based Good Times Restaurants, which recently added a protein bowl as a limited-time item that will become part of its core menu in April.

Ramon Laguarta

The CEO of PepsiCo, who mentioned GLP-1 drugs for the first time in two years during the company's earnings call and said PepsiCo would try to capitalize on the trends 'with a sense of urgency' by selling smaller portions and creating products with more fiber and protein.

Michelle Korsmo

The CEO of the National Restaurant Association, who said that GLP-1 drugs are 'on the mind of restaurant operators' and that 34% of sit-down restaurant operators adjusted portion sizes in 2025 due to rising business costs.

Ali Furman

A consumer consultant at PwC, who said that GLP-1 users consume roughly 40% fewer calories, which translates to 4-6% smaller grocery baskets and 4-5% less spending on fast food.

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What they’re saying

“Everything about our eating habits has changed. I can see myself doing it forever.”

— Marla Senzon

“We view the GLP-1 trend as somewhat more long-lived and more than just a short-term fad.”

— Ryan Zink, CEO, Good Times Restaurants

“There's no question GLP-1s are on the mind of restaurant operators.”

— Michelle Korsmo, CEO, National Restaurant Association

“Rising GLP-1 use creates a real opportunity for food companies.”

— Zak Stambor, Senior Analyst, Retail and Ecommerce, eMarketer

What’s next

Food companies will continue to monitor the impact of GLP-1 medications on consumer behavior and adjust their product offerings accordingly. Restaurants may also explore more high-protein, low-calorie menu items to cater to health-conscious Super Bowl viewers.

The takeaway

The growing popularity of weight-loss drugs like GLP-1 medications is driving a significant shift in food consumption habits, forcing the food industry to rethink its approach to major events like the Super Bowl. As more Americans prioritize healthier snacking options, food companies that can quickly adapt their menus and marketing will be best positioned to capitalize on this emerging trend.