Hershey Reports Rising Demand for Mints, Gum and Protein Snacks
Edited by Mursal Rahman — May 7, 2026 — Lifestyle
This article was written with the assistance of AI.
GLP-1 snacking is influencing how food and confectionery brands respond to changing consumer eating habits linked to weight-loss medications like Ozempic and Wegovy. Hershey reported increased sales of mints, gum and protein bars as more consumers using GLP-1 medications shift toward functional snacks, smaller portions and premium treats. The company’s Ice Breakers brand experienced notable growth as consumers increasingly seek products associated with freshness and convenience alongside appetite-conscious eating behaviors. Other food companies, including Lindt and Magnum Ice Cream, have also reported changing demand patterns connected to GLP-1 adoption.
This shift in consumer behavior could encourage food brands to develop more premium, portion-conscious and functional snack products tailored to evolving wellness priorities. Consumer packaged goods companies may increasingly adapt product portfolios around appetite management, protein-focused snacking and higher-quality indulgences. The growing influence of GLP-1 medications also highlights how healthcare trends are beginning to reshape mainstream retail purchasing and long-term food consumption habits.
Image Credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com
This shift in consumer behavior could encourage food brands to develop more premium, portion-conscious and functional snack products tailored to evolving wellness priorities. Consumer packaged goods companies may increasingly adapt product portfolios around appetite management, protein-focused snacking and higher-quality indulgences. The growing influence of GLP-1 medications also highlights how healthcare trends are beginning to reshape mainstream retail purchasing and long-term food consumption habits.
Image Credit: George Sheldon / Shutterstock.com
How GLP-1s are changing snack choices
Helps decide what snack categories and product features to cover and which shopper needs to prioritize in content and partnerships.
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When was the last time you bought a snack for yourself?
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How likely are you to choose a protein snack next time you buy a snack?
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If you wanted a smaller snack, which would you be most likely to buy?
Trend Themes
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Appetite-conscious Snacking — Demand for smaller portions and low-calorie snack options is rising as GLP-1 users prioritize appetite management over traditional meal patterns, creating room for portion-engineered offerings.
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Functional Freshness Formats — Products emphasizing freshness and convenience, like mints and gum with functional benefits, are being reimagined to align with medication-influenced eating habits and satiety cues.
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Premium Miniaturized Indulgences — A shift toward high-quality, bite-sized treats reflects consumers trading quantity for premium sensory experiences while maintaining calorie or portion control.
Industry Implications
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Confectionery and Gum — Sales growth in brands such as Ice Breakers highlights a market for confectionery positioned around freshness, low-calorie profiles, and on-the-go appetite management.
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Protein and Nutritional Bars — Manufacturers of protein-focused snacks are encountering demand for compact, nutrient-dense formats that support satiety without large portion sizes.
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Retail Pharmacy and Grocery — Pharmacies and grocery retailers are experiencing shifts in basket composition as healthcare-driven diets influence stocking and merchandising of functional snack assortments.
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