The surging demand for weight-control drugs, prominently Ozempic, is not only aiding countless individuals in shedding excess pounds but is also noticeably tempering growth projections for the packaged food sector.Indeed, the food industry is now exploring how these medications might potentially reshape the future of food consumption in Canada, with potential consequences for the way Canadians eat in the coming years.
This situation leads us to question whether the profitability of the food and snack industry is fundamentally intertwined with a consumer base grappling with excess weight. This question inevitably raises ethical and moral concerns. Undoubtedly, with share prices being impacted by these developments, these companies risk being seen as purveyors of unhealthy foods if consumers start losing weight.
Time will be the ultimate judge. However, it is clear that these drugs are creating apprehension among many in the food industry and among shareholders.