Could weight-loss drugs have an impact on the the future of dining out?
WCCO Radio's own Jason DeRusha, who also is a food writer for Minnesota Monthly, argues that while Minnesota dining is currently shielded from the rise of weight loss drugs like Ozempic, they could pose a future threat to bigger portion sizes at local restaurants.
Is there money to be made if you cater to people who are on GLP-1s," asks DeRusha. "We will see concepts pop up that are designed to serve that audience."
But, he says for now many Minnesotans are still judging a meal's worth by the size of our doggie bags.
"In Minnesota, it is very dangerous to shrink the size of portions because we are value shoppers," he says.
DeRusha, who also hosts the "DeRusha Eats" podcast on WCCO and the Audacy App, believes the subtle shift will grow. Some 35% of Americans are already interested in GLP-1 medications that promote weight loss by suppressing appetite and increasing satiety.
DeRusha says the industry just might need to adapt.
"This is a very hot topic in restaurants because they are seeing diners ordering differently and taking leftovers home. So it's tricky," says DeRusha.
Reports say up to 10% of Americans are now on these medications, and DeRusha believes new concepts designed for smaller appetites are inevitable.