GLP-1s are reshaping chain restaurant menus toward smaller portions and more protein

GLP-1 drugs that reduce appetite have coincided with major chains adding smaller-portion and higher-protein menu items. Examples in the article include Smoothie King, Olive Garden, Chipotle, Shake Shack and Subway.

GLP-1 medications that suppress appetite and slow digestion have moved into mainstream use and are influencing how some restaurants design offerings. Chains are adding smaller portions and protein-forward options to meet shifting customer demand and nutrition trends. Companies and dietitians cited in the article connect the changes to both GLP-1 use and updated U.S. protein guidance. The movement overlaps with broader wellness trends and a push for flexible portion sizes. Key details: - Smoothie King introduced a GLP-1 Support Menu in 2024 offering smoothies high in protein and fiber with zero grams of added sugar, created with a registered dietitian. - Olive Garden added a "lighter portion" section in December with seven smaller dishes; the article cites a chicken parm example that drops from about 1,020 calories and 64 grams of protein to about 630 calories and 36 grams of protein in the lighter version. - Chipotle added a High Protein Menu and a "High Protein Cup," including a cubed chicken serving reported as about 32 grams of protein for roughly the price of a latte. - Shake Shack offers lettuce-wrapped options on its "Good Fit Menu" to provide more flexibility for diners seeking smaller portions. - Subway rolled out "Protein Pockets," small snack wraps with more than 20 grams of protein, now available in most U.S. stores; a Subway executive said demand for higher-protein, lower-calorie options and GLP-1 use were factors. - A November Kaiser Family Foundation poll reported that 12% of Americans said they were taking a GLP-1 drug, roughly double the share from the previous May, and some drugmakers commented or declined comment in the article. Summary: Restaurants are adding smaller-portion and protein-focused choices as reported demand and dietary guidance shift; some chains explicitly link these menu changes to changing appetites and customer behavior. Experts quoted in the article note protein is important for certain GLP-1 users but also caution that more protein alone does not define a balanced diet. Undetermined at this time.