LONDON – Nestle is making a significant entry into the weight-loss product market by launching protein shots in the United States aimed at helping users suppress appetite as they work to shed pounds. This move is part of a broader strategy by the world’s largest packaged food maker to capitalize on the booming market for weight-loss products.
The manufacturer, known for popular items like Kit Kat chocolate bars and Nesquik shakes, has introduced a drink designed to stimulate a natural response in the body similar to, but less intense than, the increasingly popular weight-loss drugs such as Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy and Eli Lilly’s Zepbound.
The product, named Boost Pre-Meal Hunger Support, encourages consumption up to 30 minutes before meals, particularly targeting those already taking GLP-1 medications. The drink claims to enhance natural GLP-1 production, which is known to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness. Stefan Palzer, Nestle’s chief technology officer, discussed the product’s impact on satiety, stating, “You get an increase in natural GLP-1 which helps in controlling the feeling of hunger. So this dose has a significant effect on satiety.”
Available for $10.99 for a pack of four on Amazon and select CVS stores, each shot contains 10 grams of whey protein, 45 calories, one gram of sugar, and is fat-free. It is marketed as promoting a “NATURAL GLP-1 response to a meal,” serving as both a preemptive measure before mealtime and a potential aid for individuals looking to manage their weight long-term.
However, experts like Lora Heisler, chair in human nutrition at the Rowett Institute, express skepticism regarding the long-term effectiveness of such a shot for weight loss. She notes that while the shot may indeed yield a slight increase in GLP-1 production, similar effects might also be achieved with simpler alternatives, such as a glass of milk.
Earlier this year, Nestle expanded its offerings in the weight-loss sector by introducing a frozen pizza and protein-enriched pasta line targeted at individuals utilizing weight-loss medications.
The obesity drug market is projected to potentially reach a value of $150 billion annually within the next decade, prompting even major retailers like Walmart to report declines in food consumption connected with the increasing use of weight-loss medications.
The science behind the protein shots hinges on a patented blend of peptides that are quickly digested, stimulating an amino acid spike that helps control hunger. Additionally, whey protein micro-gels are incorporated to facilitate longer interaction with GLP-1 hormone-releasing receptors in the intestine. Palzer emphasized that while these shots are beneficial, they are not a replacement for prescription weight-loss medications.
In a recent study conducted by Nestle involving participants with type-2 diabetes, results indicated a 22 percent decrease in glucose levels post-meal for those consuming the whey protein shot compared to a placebo. Furthermore, the study noted a positive effect on GLP-1 hormone levels.
Source: CTV News
