2025-09-29 14:15:17

Weight-loss jabs could kill off sweet treats.

The slimming injections – which contain the active ingredient GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) – suppress appetite and reduce cravings, leaving chocoholics less tempted by their usual fix.

Trade journal Confectionery News said: “The uptake of GLP-1 drugs is extraordinary.

“Everyone is taking them, considering taking them or knows someone else who has. And it’s the speed of adoption that’s powered the global market to an estimated value of $53.46billion (£39.72bn).

“But while this is great news for dieters, and certainly for pharmaceutical companies, it’s proving challenging for the food and beverage industry – in particular confectionery manufacturers.”

The journal added that the trend could be “especially problematic for chocolate makers.”

US confectionary giant Hershey has already suffered what it called a “mild year-on-year impact”, while cocoa powerhouses Barry Callebaut, Mondelez International and Nestlé have all seen reduced demand.

Kiti Soininen, director of UK food and drink research at Mintel, said: “The top reason to eat chocolate is to satisfy a craving. If GLP-1s do quell ‘food noise’ and therefore cravings that could pose a threat.”

Industry analyst Lu Ann Williams, of Market Insights, added: “Users of GLP-1 medication tend to consume healthier food since taking the medication.”

Chocolate firms are reportedly fighting back by trialling new treats made with “GLP-1-friendly ingredients” designed to tempt cautious customers.

The news comes as a separate survey by GP Nutrition found one in five UK adults have already used slimming jabs — around 10 million Brits.

Alarmingly, many admitted to using the drugs without prescriptions and even sharing doses with friends and family.

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