I can’t believe half of the 2020s decade is now officially over. Yet, here we stand.

January only means one thing: Another edition of my famous predictions. (OK, they are not famous at all, but I digress). 

Often, I have at least five predictions for the upcoming year. However, this year, I only have one prediction. Here it is:

GLP-1 becomes No. 1: Most everyone has seen the Ozempic and Wegovy commercials with their catchy theme songs. There is no doubt GLP-1 medications, used to treat Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and, yes, obesity, have become big business. Yet, the alleged benefits of these particular ingredients and usage in dairy products is less publicized so far. I believe this is the year dairy becomes a big part of the GLP-1 equation. 

As former “Health and Wellness” columnist Sharon Gerdes wrote in her September column, one such ingredient that could be beneficial is Palatinose, Beneo’s patented isomaultulose, which can be used in neutral as well as acidic pH dairy beverages. 

“A new study, ‘Isomaltulose Enhances GLP-1 and PYY Secretion to a Mixed Meal in People With or Without Type 2 Diabetes as Compared to Saccharose,’ demonstrates that intake of the naturally sourced, smart carbohydrate Palatinose stimulates the release of beneficial gut hormones including GLP-1 in overweight adults, even if its consumption is followed by a meal,” Denisse Colindres, senior manager nutrition communication, North America at BENEO, states in the article.

“The findings show that Palatinose has a beneficial effect on metabolic parameters that are important for maintaining a healthy body weight, blood glucose control, and cardiovascular health,” Colindres adds.

“GLP-1 has a beneficial impact on metabolism, including the reduction of appetite and weight gain, and improves blood glucose control,” adds Gerdes in that same column. “The study findings again show that Palatinose influences factors that contribute to a better metabolic state and therefore provides benefits beyond slow released and sustained energy.”

Retailer Smoothie King was one of the first to capitalize on this growing trend, launching a GLP-1 Support Menu for guests using GLP-1 agonists to help them achieve their weight loss or weight management goals. The Smoothie King GLP-1 Support Menu features high-protein smoothies with 20 grams of protein or more that are rich in fiber and have zero grams of added sugar, key nutritional factors that can help individuals maintain balanced energy levels and achieve their health goals, according to registered dietitians. 

The names of these smoothies are sure to attract those on GLP-1 diets. They are Gladiator GLP-1, Slim N Trim GLP-1 Mango Greens, Keto Champ GLP-1, The Activator Recovery GLP-1 Almond Berry and Power Meal Slim GLP-1.

“We know that every individual’s path is different, and with the rising use of GLP-1 medications across the country and our customer base, we want to ensure that Smoothie King provides the nutritional resources to match. Our smoothies are more than just a delicious treat. They’re a power-packed meal on-the-go to help our guests stay on track with their goals,” relays Wan Kim, Smoothie King CEO.

I do not want to steal the thunder of our Outlook Report on weight management and diet in this issue, penned by Barbara Harfmann. Please check out her story for much more on this trending topic. However, I do expect several new dairy-related product launches focusing on weight management and overall health and wellness in 2025. 

I believe we are only in the “first inning” of a long-term trend. I do not think weight management and GLP-1 is a fad. Sure, GLP-1 medications will likely change over time, including the potential for consumers to switch from injections to an ingestible pill. But dairy — as part of the GLP-1 diet solution — could be on the precipice of something big.