According to a recent Cornell University study, households with at least one patient taking GLP-1 medication, like Ozempic or Wegovy, cut grocery spending by some 6% within the first six months of starting the medication; it works out to about $416 less being spent on groceries each year (up to $690 less for higher-income homes). The snack category is taking the biggest hit, as chips, cookies and ultra-processed foods have seen sales declines of up to 11.1%. 

About 15 million U.S. adults are taking GLP-1 medications. As eating habits change, food manufacturers need to pivot—and do so fast.  

Uncle Jerry's Pretzels is a small, family-owned business based in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, that makes pretzels without oil, sugar or preservatives. The company and others that make healthier snacking options are poised to capitalize on shifting consumer tendencies. 

In this exclusive interview, Misty Skolnick, co-owner of Uncle Jerry's Pretzels, discusses how GLP-1 drugs are reshaping the snack food industry, the unexpected health benefits of shrinkflation, and the changes food manufacturers need to make to survive. 

David Mantey: How have drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy changed U.S. snacking habits?

Misty Skolnick: The rise of drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy has had a notable impact on U.S. snacking habits. These medications, which are primarily used for weight loss and managing diabetes, have influenced how consumers approach food. Research shows that people using these drugs are eating less overall, with a focus on more mindful consumption. Many individuals are now paying closer attention to nutritional labels, opting for healthier snacks with fewer calories, sugars, and fats. 

Fortunately, we are already well ahead of this trend thanks to our commitment to make 100% natural pretzels that don't use oil, sugar or preservatives. We've also become an industry leader by publishing our nutrition label on the front of all of our packages so consumers can make an informed decision about the snacks they are eating. 

Uncle Jerry's pretzels are crafted using traditional handmade methods.Uncle Jerry's Pretzels

DM: How will snack manufacturers need to adjust to address the change?

MS: To address the change in consumer habits, snack manufacturers will need to prioritize listening to customer feedback and adjusting their offerings. This might mean reformulating products to make them lower in calories, reducing sugar content, or increasing protein and fiber for more satisfying snacks. 

Packaging and portion sizes may also need to be reconsidered to cater to a more health-conscious consumer base looking for smaller, more balanced snacks. Additionally, transparency in labeling will be essential—consumers want to know exactly what's in their food. Manufacturers will likely need to be proactive in educating consumers about the health benefits of their products and ensuring they align with the demand for natural, clean ingredients.

DM: How did "shrinkflation" alter consumer behavior?

MS: While shrinkflation may seem like a new term, the practice of reducing product sizes while maintaining prices has been around for decades, often as a response to rising production costs. In the food industry, shrinkflation has had a mixed impact on consumer behavior. 

While many customers are becoming more aware of the smaller sizes and voicing their frustration about the loss of their purchasing power, smaller sizes could lead to unexpected health benefits as consumers consume less. 

DM: Does Uncle Jerry's Pretzels require any specialized manufacturing techniques to make products with ingredients like oil, sugar, or other preservatives?

MS: Unlike many manufacturers that rely on oils, sugars, and preservatives to extend shelf life or improve texture, our pretzels are made from simple, high-quality ingredients. This means we don't need any specialized equipment or complex manufacturing processes.

Our pretzels are crafted using traditional handmade methods, which gives them their distinctive flavor and texture. We focus on keeping things as natural as possible—no artificial additives or chemicals are involved. For us, it's about quality over convenience, and we believe that's what sets our product apart in the market.

DM: What are your expectations for the market going forward?

MS: Looking ahead, we remain optimistic about the future of our brand. We have built a loyal customer base over the years. While we are aware of the ongoing changes in the snack industry—such as shifts in consumer preferences toward healthier options and the rise of new dietary trends—we plan to continue delivering the same high-quality product that our customers know and love. 

However, we understand that the market is always evolving, and we'll need to stay adaptable. Whether it's through experimenting with new flavors or exploring different packaging options, we're committed to innovation while maintaining the core values that define our brand. While we may adjust certain aspects of our business, the essence of who we are and what we stand for will never change.

Misty Skolnick, co-owner of Uncle Jerry's Pretzels, operates the family-owned business with her uncle, Jerry.Uncle Jerry's Pretzels