Soon a disruption for the global economy? With the approval of the latest anti-obesity drug by US health authorities on November 8, the economy could turn around. Ultra-processed food producers in particular would be the first to be affected. Other sectors could benefit from this new paradigm.
Marketed under the name Zepbound, this appetite suppressant from the Eli Lilly laboratory should be available at the end of the year. It will join the list of these new treatments – Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy – that have emerged on the other side of the Atlantic as part of the fight against obesity. While 40% of American adults suffer from this chronic disease, 7% of the population could use one of these medications in 2035. This will translate into a change in the consumption habits of these people.
“Slight decrease in the global basket”
By collecting data from consumers who pass through the doors of its hypermarkets every day, the distribution giant Walmart was able to observe a change in the typical basket of people who take these types of treatments.
Although the manager stressed that it is still too early to draw definitive conclusions, another study carried out by Jefferies on 800 American patients confirms Walmart’s observations. According to this, 73% of those surveyed say they eat less; From 43% to 44% eat less slow carbohydrates, sweet snacks, salty snacks; and on the contrary, 43% eat more fruit.
Walmart, for the moment, has not been directly affected by this drop in consumption due, in particular, to the profits obtained from the sale of these powerful appetite suppressants, since the American giant also acts as a distributor.
Reflection and questions
But more CEOs, especially producers of ultra-processed foods, and investors are wondering how weight-loss drugs could change the face of the economy and the business world.
Nestlé, a global leader in the food industry, is working on a wide range of products that would complement treatments against excess weight. “Complementary products” that would prevent regaining lost kilos.
“When you eat less, you want to be sure that the weight loss is maintained. You want to be sure to limit the loss of muscle mass. You need vitamins and minerals,” said Mark Schneider, head of the Swiss group.
An opportunity for the airline sector
What is a cause for concern for some, appears to be a cause for hope for others. Sheila Kahyaoglu, an analyst at Jefferies Financial, analyzed the possible beneficiaries of the use of these appetite suppressant drugs. She estimates that United Airlines would save $80 million a year if the average passenger weight decreased by 10 pounds (4.5 kg).
Weight is a major concern for airlines because the heavier a plane weighs, the more fuel it burns. However, fuel oil represents around 25% of transporters’ expenses. Over time, airlines have adopted various strategies to lighten the load on flights, such as removing magazines and choosing lighter tableware, utensils, and beverage carts.
The textile industry also sees a golden opportunity. Significant weight loss could mean a wardrobe upgrade. The rise of obesity treatments could ultimately redistribute the cards of American—and global—capitalism.
Source: BFM TV
