Few medications have captured the public's attention like GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs, which include Ozempic and Wegovy, have shown remarkable potential in causing significant weight loss. Currently, a significant 12% of the population is using these medications. Now, a major frozen food brand is taking a unique approach by marketing its products towards GLP-1 receptor agonist users.

Conagra Brands' "On Track" Badge

Conagra Brands recently announced the addition of an “On Track” badge to 26 of its Healthy Choice frozen food items. This badge indicates that the products are high in protein, low in calories, and a good source of fiber, making them suitable for GLP-1 receptor agonist users. The badge lists the amount of fiber per serving along with the phrase “GLP-1 Friendly,” helping shoppers easily identify options that meet their needs. (A publicist for Conagra Brands did not respond to our request for comment by the deadline.)

Which Foods Are Impacted?

The “On Track” badge will be seen on a variety of Healthy Choice Café Steamers and Simply Steamers foods available at major retailers across the country, such as Walmart, Target, Kroger, and Albertsons. You can also find them online at Amazon.com and Walmart.com, with the new packaging set to roll out in January. These foods include:- Simply Steamers 10129265, HC 00114 Grilled Basil Chicken 9.9 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129276, HC 55627 Turkey Sausage Lasagna Bowl 10 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129258, HC 00101 Grilled Chicken Marinara with Parmesan 9.5 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129273, HC 00102 Beef Merlot 9.5 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129238, HC 00103 Chicken Linguini with Red Pepper Alfredo 9.8 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129284, HC 00104 Sweet Sesame Chicken 9.75 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129285, HC 00105 Chicken Margherita with Balsamic 9.5 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129219, HC 00106 General Tso’s Spicy Chicken 10.3 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129274, HC 00107 Grilled Chicken Pesto with Vegetables 9.9 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129262, HC 00112 Cajun Style Chicken & Shrimp 9.9 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129189, HC 00115 Pineapple Chicken 9.9 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129263, HC 00117 Crustless Chicken Pot Pie 9.6 oz- Simply Steamers 10129300, HC 00124 Grilled Chicken & Broccoli Alfredo 9.15 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129286, HC 45442 Chicken Fettuccini Alfredo with Broccoli 10 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129264, HC 45444 Spaghetti & Meatballs 9.5 oz- Simply Steamers 10129320, HC 45445 Beef & Broccoli 10 oz- Simply Steamers 10129293, HC 00108 Grilled Chicken Marsala 9.9 oz- Simply Steamers 10129239, HC 00125 Chicken and Vegetable Stir Fry 9.25 oz- Simply Steamers 10129277, HC 00127 Grilled Chicken Pesto & Vegetables 9.15 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129287, HC 22009 Creamy Chicken & Mushroom 9.25 oz- Cafe Steamers 10129321, HC 22011 Mexican-Style Street Corn 9.25 oz- Simply Steamers 10129312, HC 40103 Meatball Marinara 10 oz- Simply Steamers 10129313, HC 40104 Chicken Fried Rice 0.63 lb- Cafe Steamers 10129267, HC 40581 Four-Cheese Ravioli & Chicken Marinara 10 oz- Simply Steamers 10129188, HC 55555 Southwest-Style Chicken Burrito Bowl 9.5 oz- Simply Steamers 10129199, HC 82000 Beef Chimichurri 9 oz

What Do Experts Think of This?

Experts generally view this move favorably, although many find it surprising. Alexandra Sowa, MD, an internal medicine doctor specializing in preventative health, nutrition, and obesity medicine, and the author of The Ozempic Revolution, notes that these Healthy Choice products were not specifically made for GLP-1 users but are being labeled as such. She emphasizes that the definition of foods helpful for GLP-1 receptor agonists is still a subject of debate as there are limited guidelines.Mir Ali, MD, a bariatric surgeon and medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA, considers this a “good idea.” He believes that regardless of the method used to lose weight, what one eats is crucial. “If there’s a way to assist people in making the right food choices, I’m all for it,” he says.Jessica Cording, RD, a nutritionist and the author of The Little Book of Game-Changers, finds the move “fascinating from a marketing standpoint.” She adds, “I can’t think of another time a medication was featured on a food product or label.”

What Foods Are Best for People on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists?

Medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists help suppress hunger and slow digestion. Ali emphasizes that while these medications play a role, the majority of weight loss depends on food. He recommends that all weight loss patients focus on consuming plenty of protein and vegetables. “Stick to protein and vegetables; minimize carbs and sugars,” he advises. This puts the body in a fat-burning mode, leading to better results.Protein is not only essential for weight loss but also helps build, repair, and retain muscle mass, which can be easily lost during rapid weight loss. Cording further suggests prioritizing fiber and fluids to support good digestive health and reduce the risk of constipation.Sowa expects more companies to follow suit and add similar labels to their products. However, she expresses concern about the lack of regulation in this area. “It will be up to users to carefully read the labels and make informed choices,” she warns.Ultimately, if you are on a GLP-1 receptor agonist medication, it is crucial to consult your prescribing doctor about dietary recommendations. They can provide personalized guidance to increase your chances of success.