McDonald's pilots high-protein, smaller-portion meals for GLP-1 drug users

McDonald’s Corp. is experimenting with a protein-rich menu designed for consumers on GLP-1 weight-loss medications and those preferring smaller, higher-protein meals. The trial lineup includes a crispy chicken bowl served on a lettuce base with cheese, tomatoes and ranch dressing, a grilled-chicken snack wrap, a burger bowl, and egg bite breakfast options. The company is still refining the offerings and has not set a launch date.

Customers using GLP-1 drugs are moving away from large bundled meals and sugary drinks, prompting the chain to explore lower-calorie alternatives such as a strawberry lychee drink made with water. McDonald’s reported that roughly 84% of U.S. households with GLP-1 users frequent its locations, frequently ordering items like the Happy Meal, Filet-O-Fish and McNuggets, while grilled chicken was the top request for a menu return.