Arla Foods Ingredients targets GLP-1 nutrition market with high-protein concepts

Arla Foods Ingredients has developed a range of high-protein nutrition concepts aimed at users of GLP-1 anti-obesity medications, with the solutions set to be showcased at Vitafoods Europe in Barcelona from May 5-7, 2026.

• Arla Foods Ingredients has developed high-protein nutrition concepts targeting users of GLP-1 medications, focusing on muscle retention and digestive support.
• The solutions have incorporated Nutrilac and Lacprodan BLG-100 proteins alongside probiotics from Novonesis to deliver essential amino acids and support gut health.
• The concepts have included multiple formats such as fermented shots, yogurts, and protein beverages designed for smaller appetites and nutrient-dense consumption.

The move comes as GLP-1 receptor agonists, originally developed for diabetes treatment, have reshaped the global weight management market. In 2025, 11% of consumers actively trying to lose weight globally and 18% in the USA reported using these medications, with further growth expected as availability expands and costs decline.

However, the rise in GLP-1 usage has brought new nutritional challenges. Research cited by the company indicated that while lean muscle typically accounts for around 25% of weight lost through traditional interventions, this figure can rise to as much as 40% among GLP-1 users. In addition, up to 76% of consumers experience gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, stomach pain, and reduced appetite.

Arla Foods Ingredients has responded to these challenges by developing what it described as “GLP-1 companion nutrition” concepts designed to support both muscle health and digestive comfort.

The concepts have been built around the company’s Nutrilac and Lacprodan BLG-100 protein ingredients, which provide all essential amino acids required for muscle maintenance. They have also incorporated probiotic cultures from Novonesis to address digestive well-being, reflecting the dual focus on managing side effects and maintaining nutritional balance.

Anne Widart, Chief Commercial Officer of Arla Foods Ingredients, said the category represented a significant opportunity for food manufacturers. “GLP-1 companion nutrition is a rapidly growing category, with considerable untapped opportunities for dairy manufacturers,” she said. “Anti-obesity medications are creating a market for more nutrient-dense foods that are high in protein to protect lean muscle mass and are easy to digest. Featuring our specialty proteins, these new concepts can help manufacturers realise that potential. Delivering all the essential amino acids vital for muscle health, they also support gut comfort, and the small serving sizes and great taste appeal to smaller appetites.”

The company’s concept range has been designed to align with the reduced appetite often associated with GLP-1 use, offering smaller, nutrient-dense formats.

These have included a fermented high-protein shot delivering 10g of protein per 70ml serving, formulated to be low in fat, lactose-reduced, and without added sugar. A high-protein drinking yogurt concept has provided 20g of protein per 200ml serving, while a spoonable yogurt format has delivered the same protein content in a smaller 120g portion, alongside calcium fortification.

In addition, the company has developed a water-based protein shot intended for ambient storage and medical nutrition applications. Using Lacprodan BLG-100, the formulation has delivered 21g of protein per 100ml serving while remaining free from fat and sugar and low in lactose.

Alongside its GLP-1-focused portfolio, Arla Foods Ingredients has also prepared additional concepts for display at Vitafoods Europe. These have included an aerated protein bar using Nutrilac PB-8420, designed to deliver a light texture through stable air incorporation, and a ready-to-stir medical nutrition powder based on Lacprodan BLG-100 Acidic, formulated for low viscosity and high solubility.

The company has confirmed that all concepts will be presented at its stand during the Barcelona event, as it engages with manufacturers exploring new product development opportunities in response to shifting consumer health trends.

The expansion into GLP-1 companion nutrition reflects a broader shift in the food and nutrition sector, as ingredient suppliers and manufacturers adapt to the rapid uptake of pharmaceutical weight management solutions and the evolving dietary needs associated with their use.