GLP-1 Friendly Meals for Retailers: 2026 Stocking Guide

The GLP-1 Opportunity: Why Retailers Should Pay Attention

If you run a gym, convenience store, or small grocery, you've probably noticed the conversation around GLP-1 medications. Drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have moved from medical journals to mainstream awareness—and the people taking them are walking into your store looking for food that works with their treatment.

The numbers tell the story. According to KFF research from November 2025, approximately 12% of U.S. adults are currently taking a GLP-1 drug, up significantly from just 6% eighteen months earlier. That's roughly one in eight American adults. Among those ages 50 to 64—a demographic with significant purchasing power—usage climbs to 22%. Women use these medications at higher rates than men (15% versus 9%), and 43% of people diagnosed with diabetes report having used a GLP-1 at some point.

This isn't a passing trend. The global GLP-1 market is projected to reach $156.71 billion by 2030, growing at over 17% annually. More importantly for retailers, these users have specific nutritional needs and they're willing to pay for products that meet them. Gallup's National Health and Well-Being Index shows the U.S. obesity rate has already dropped from 39.9% to 37%—a shift researchers attribute partly to widespread GLP-1 adoption.

The question isn't whether this market matters. It's whether you're positioned to serve it.

What GLP-1 Users Need From Their Food

GLP-1 medications work by mimicking hormones that regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and reduce appetite. This creates specific dietary requirements that smart retailers can address.

High protein is essential. GLP-1 users often eat less overall, which puts them at risk of losing muscle mass along with fat. Medical guidance consistently emphasizes protein intake—typically 25 to 40 grams per meal—to preserve lean tissue during weight loss. Products like the High Protein Box from Clean Eatz Kitchen deliver 35+ grams of protein per serving, hitting exactly what this demographic needs.

Portion control matters more than usual. GLP-1 medications reduce appetite significantly. Users often can't finish large meals and feel uncomfortable when they try. Individually portioned meals in the 400-550 calorie range work best. They provide adequate nutrition without overwhelming a suppressed appetite.

Lower fat reduces side effects. The most common complaints from GLP-1 users involve digestive discomfort—nausea, bloating, and delayed stomach emptying. High-fat foods make these worse. Meals that emphasize lean proteins with moderate healthy fats tend to be better tolerated.

Fiber helps, but balance is key. Adequate fiber supports digestion and blood sugar control, both relevant for GLP-1 users. However, excessive fiber combined with the medication's digestive effects can cause problems. Moderate fiber content—think vegetables and whole grains in reasonable portions—strikes the right balance.

For a deeper look at stocking strategies across categories, see our Wellness Convenience 2026: What to Stock Now guide.

Which Retailers Benefit Most

Gyms and fitness centers have a natural advantage here. Many GLP-1 users combine medication with exercise, and the overlap between gym members and medication users is substantial. A gym member on Wegovy who just finished a workout is an ideal customer for a high-protein, portion-controlled meal. They're already thinking about nutrition, they're in your space, and they need to eat. The Breakfast Box and High Protein Box fit this audience perfectly.

For gym-specific strategies, our Wholesale Healthy Meals for Gyms guide covers the full picture.

Convenience stores are seeing a shift in customer expectations. Research from Acosta Group shows that 61% of c-store shoppers now look for products with health benefits at least some of the time. GLP-1 users represent a growing subset of this health-conscious crowd, and they're disappointed when their only options are chips and candy. Stock grab-and-go items like Empanadas or Cleanwich sandwiches that deliver protein and portion control in a convenient format.

Small grocers and independent stores can differentiate from big-box competition by serving niche health needs that larger retailers overlook. A dedicated freezer section for high-protein, portion-controlled meals positions you as the local destination for health-focused shoppers. The Hall of Fame Box offers variety with proven sellers that appeal to this audience.

Merchandising for the GLP-1 Customer

GLP-1 users shop with specific criteria in mind. They're scanning for protein content, calorie counts, and portion sizes. Make their job easier and you'll earn their loyalty.

Position high-protein meals at eye level in your freezer section. This is where health-conscious shoppers look first. A single-faced product gets overlooked; double facing signals popularity and draws attention. Group similar products together rather than scattering them throughout the freezer.

Use benefit-first signage. A tag that reads "35g Protein | 480 Calories | Ready in 4 Minutes" communicates more than a brand name. GLP-1 users are making quick decisions based on nutritional profile. Give them the information they need without making them dig for it.

Consider a dedicated section. Whether you call it "GLP-1 Friendly," "High-Protein Meals," or simply "Healthy Frozen," clustering these products together serves customers who are actively seeking them. This approach works especially well in gyms where the health focus is already part of your brand identity.

For detailed planogram guidance, see our C-Store Freezer Endcaps article.

Products That Fit the GLP-1 Profile

Not every meal works for this audience. Here's what to prioritize when building your GLP-1 friendly selection:

The High Protein Box ($210 for 30 meals) is the flagship option for GLP-1 customers. With 35+ grams of protein per serving and controlled portions, it checks every box. This should anchor any GLP-1 focused section.

The Hall of Fame Box ($190 for 30 meals) offers variety with Clean Eatz Kitchen's most popular meals. It's a good entry point for retailers testing demand, and the familiar comfort-food profiles help GLP-1 users feel like they're eating real meals, not diet food.

For breakfast, the Breakfast Box ($190 for 30 meals) and Wholesale Breakfast Sandwiches ($180) serve the morning crowd. Many GLP-1 users find breakfast easier to manage than larger meals later in the day, making this a strong category.

Grab-and-go options like Empanadas ($284) and Cleanwich ($225) work well for c-stores and gyms where speed matters. They're portioned appropriately and easy to heat or eat cold.

Overnight Oatz ($175) provides a fiber-forward option for customers who tolerate it well. The single-serve format and moderate calorie count fit GLP-1 needs.

Addressing Customer Concerns

Some GLP-1 users will ask questions. Having answers builds trust and repeat business.

On protein content: Clean Eatz Kitchen meals are designed with protein as a priority. The High Protein line delivers 35+ grams per serving, aligning with medical recommendations for GLP-1 users focused on preserving muscle mass.

On portion sizes: All meals are individually portioned in the 400-550 calorie range, which matches the reduced appetite most GLP-1 users experience. They won't need to eat half and save the rest.

On preparation: Every meal heats in 3-5 minutes in a microwave. For GLP-1 users who sometimes feel fatigued or aren't up for cooking, this convenience matters.

On ingredients: Clean Eatz Kitchen uses whole food ingredients without excessive sodium or heavy sauces that can trigger digestive discomfort. The nutrition profiles are transparent and easy to review.

Getting Started

Starting with one or two wholesale boxes lets you test demand without overcommitting inventory. The High Protein Box and Hall of Fame Box together give you variety and hit the core GLP-1 needs. Position them prominently, use clear signage, and track what moves.

For retailers ready to serve this growing market, Clean Eatz Kitchen offers wholesale pricing with 30 meals per box and free shipping. Visit the retailer application page to set up an account, or explore the full product catalog to see what fits your store.

The GLP-1 market isn't slowing down. Retailers who stock appropriately now will build relationships with a loyal, health-focused customer base that's only going to grow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a meal GLP-1 friendly?

GLP-1 friendly meals are high in protein (25-40g per serving), moderate in fiber, lower in fat, and portion-controlled (typically 400-550 calories). They avoid heavy sauces, fried preparations, and excessive sodium that can worsen digestive side effects common with GLP-1 medications.

How many Americans are currently taking GLP-1 medications?

According to KFF research from November 2025, approximately 12% of U.S. adults are currently taking a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, or Zepbound. Usage is highest among adults ages 50-64, where 22% report current use.

What's the minimum order to start stocking Clean Eatz meals?

Clean Eatz Kitchen wholesale boxes contain 30 meals each, with options like the High Protein Box ($210) or Hall of Fame Box ($190). Most retailers start with one or two boxes to test demand before scaling up.

Do GLP-1 users prefer frozen or fresh prepared meals?

Both work well. Frozen meals offer longer shelf life and consistent portions, making them ideal for retail. The key is that meals are easy to prepare and portion-controlled—GLP-1 users often have reduced appetite and prefer smaller, nutrient-dense options they can heat quickly.

How should I merchandise GLP-1 friendly meals in my store?

Position high-protein, portion-controlled meals at eye level in your freezer section. Use benefit-first signage highlighting protein content and calorie counts. Consider a dedicated "GLP-1 Friendly" or "High-Protein" shelf section, as this demographic actively seeks these products and appreciates clear labeling.