GLP-1 formulation: IFT on tailoring functional food and beverages to close nutrition gaps

GLP-1 medications are progressing into the mainstream US market and redirecting formulation strategies toward complementary nutrient-dense food and beverage options. This emerging class of products is enhanced with functional ingredients such as specific fibers, bioactives, and micronutrients. These inclusions help sustain satiety, muscle mass, and long-term weight management to address consumers’ needs during rapid fat loss. 

As the new “appetite economy” takes hold, the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) highlights that brands are seeking practical strategies to anticipate market changes, enhance product appeal, and maintain regulatory compliance in a dynamic nutrition environment.

Nutrition Insight speaks to Renee Leber, food scientist and technical services manager at IFT, to learn more about tailoring nutritional product development to the GLP-1 consumer.

IFT has created CoDeveloper, an AI platform designed to assist with product formulation while providing scientifically backed technical resources and information to developers designing new recipes.

“CoDeveloper was used to see what ingredients are showing up in foods designed for consumers using GLP-1s beyond just additional protein,” says Leber.

“The results show a strong focus on fibers that help people feel fuller and support digestion, along with plant-based ingredients like allulose (a sugar alternative) and fenugreek that are being explored for their potential to support a healthy level of appetite and metabolism.”

Products in this space also often include vitamins and minerals — such as B vitamins, magnesium, and vitamin D — to help make smaller portions more nutritionally complete, she adds.

“There is also growing interest in ingredients that support gut health, such as prebiotics and postbiotics, reflecting the idea that digestion plays a role in how full and satisfied people feel.”

Next-generation yogurts

Protein and fiber-rich dairy products, such as some yogurts, have been shown to promote feelings of fullness, which align well with the appetite-reducing effects of GLP-1 medications.

Danone introduced its Oikos Fusion high-protein yogurt, addressing the surge in demand for complementary F&B products to support nutrition gaps during GLP-1 rapid weight loss.Danone is a collaborating partner of IFT and recently presented its high-protein yogurt brand, Oikos Fusion, at a co-branded webinar. The product is marketed as the first cultured dairy drink designed to support the nutritional needs of GLP-1 users.

“Products like Oikos Fusion, which combine increased protein with prebiotic fiber, reflect an interest in formulations that support digestive health and help smaller portions feel more satisfying,” says Leber.

“Research increasingly emphasizes the value of delivering essential nutrition in compact formats, particularly key vitamins and minerals, that support muscle, bone, and metabolic health. By pairing higher protein with prebiotic fiber and added vitamins, products like Oikos Fusion align with current research priorities focused on helping GLP-1 users meet nutritional needs, support digestive comfort, and maintain metabolic health.”

GLP-1 science and nutrition

As a member association, IFT connects stakeholders working across the science of food, says Leber.

“Rather than developing or promoting specific ingredients, IFT focuses on convening the community around the newest science, shared learning, and practical resources.”

“In response to growing interest from both consumers and companies in products designed for GLP-1 users, IFT has hosted multiple events that explore this topic from several perspectives, including panel webinars, podcasts, and articles that explore ongoing discussions around formulation trends within this space.”

In recent GLP-1-oriented food innovations, food-tech company Lasso launched two snack brands, Froobies and CronchClub, this month. The snacks are the first to use Lasso’s “Spintech” system that weaves together fiber and protein into food products, removing the need for artificial additives, binders, or excess sugar. Rather than adding protein and fiber coatings, the macronutrients are directly woven into the crisps.

Last month, subscription supplement brand Maeva launched a “first of its kind” customizable product line designed for individuals on GLP-1 medications. The range includes products featuring probiotics, peptides, enzymes, and botanicals, selected to address the specific nutritional problems that tend to arise during rapid weight-loss routines.