Protein is rapidly becoming a top trend in the food industry, and McDonald’s is taking notice. CEO Chris Kempczinski recently discussed the company’s interest in expanding its protein-focused menu to appeal to customers using GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy. These drugs, approved for weight loss in 2021, have surged in popularity in the U.S., with use among adults more than doubling between 2024 and 2025, according to a Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index survey.
During a Feb. 11 earnings call, Kempczinski acknowledged the growing number of customers adopting GLP-1 medications. “We’re certainly spending a lot of time and paying close attention to it,” he said. Despite this trend, he noted that McDonald’s has not yet seen any significant impact on sales, emphasizing that protein remains highly relevant to these consumers.
GLP-1 Medications and Changing Eating Habits
GLP-1 drugs help users manage weight by prolonging feelings of fullness, which can lead to reduced calorie intake, less snacking, and diet modifications. Experts recommend sufficient protein consumption for users, as rapid weight loss can result in muscle loss.
Kempczinski highlighted that McDonald’s menu already includes “great protein offerings,” ranging from chicken strips and fish options to snack wraps and sausage biscuits. While the company is not currently testing entirely new protein products, it is exploring ways to expand and adapt its menu based on evolving customer preferences.
McDonald’s “Protein-Forward” Menu
Executive Vice President and Chief Restaurant Experience Officer Jill McDonald reinforced the brand’s protein focus, stating, “We have a number of items on the menu that customers who are on GLP-1 are enjoying. We do have a history of staying close to customers, and innovating and adapting our menu as required.”
Snack wraps, a longstanding protein-rich option, will return to menus at participating restaurants nationwide on July 10, signaling the company’s commitment to meeting customer demand for protein-forward choices. Jill McDonald also noted that McDonald’s is continuing to experiment with new ideas that align with customer needs and preferences.
The Protein Trend Across the Industry
McDonald’s move reflects a broader trend in the food industry. From Target focusing on wellness foods to Starbucks and Dunkin’ adding protein drinks, companies are responding to growing consumer interest in protein. Other chains, like Subway, have introduced Protein Pockets, while Chipotle launched a High Protein Menu featuring a 4-ounce cup of meat.
The momentum is further supported by updated dietary guidance. On Jan. 7, U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. released new dietary guidelines recommending higher protein intake and reduced consumption of sugar and ultra-processed foods. “As Secretary of Health and Human Services, my message is clear: Eat real food,” Kennedy said.
Looking Ahead
McDonald’s is closely monitoring how GLP-1 medications will shape customer habits. As more consumers adopt these drugs, the fast-food giant expects shifts in eating patterns that may influence menu innovation. While the specifics of a GLP-1-focused menu remain undisclosed, the company emphasizes that any expansion will be led by customer feedback and demand.
Kempczinski concluded that McDonald’s is “fortunate” that protein appeals to a wide range of consumers, including those using GLP-1 drugs. By focusing on protein-forward offerings, the company aims to remain relevant in a market increasingly influenced by health-conscious decisions and weight management trends.
As the popularity of GLP-1 medications grows, McDonald’s appears poised to balance indulgence with nutrition, catering to customers seeking protein-rich options without compromising convenience or taste.