McDonald’s highlights current protein offerings amid GLP‑1 surge

Editor's Note: This story was updated to reflect that McDonald's is not testing new protein products but is considering expanding its already protein-focused menu based on customer feedback.

Protein is the flavor of the year, and McDonald's agrees, with CEO Chris Kempczinski expressing interest in introducing more GLP-1-friendly food items to the popular chain's already "protein-forward" menu.

Speaking at an earnings call on Feb. 11, during which the company reported notable growth in the last quarter of 2025, Kempczinski addressed the growing use of GLP-1 receptors among customers.

Responding to a question about a "shift in consumption" amid increased use and availability of different types of GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medication, including Ozempic and Wegovy, Kempczinski said, "we're certainly spending a lot of time and paying close attention to it."

"We've looked pretty hard, and we don't yet see evidence of it (weight loss drugs) really having a material impact on our business," Kempczinski added. "Fortunately for us, protein is one of the areas that this consumer, the GLP-1 consumer, is still very much interested in, and we've got a great protein offering on our menu."

However, the CEO said McDonald's is aware of how rapidly these drugs are being adopted and the company is expecting changes in consumer behavior, such as reduced calorie intake, less snacking and diet modifications.

"All of those things are factoring into some of what we're out there experimenting with and testing with, and ultimately, as we learn more about that and get feedback from our customers, those things could make their way onto the menu," Kempczinski added.

The CEO, however, did not elaborate on what a GLP-1-focused menu would look like.

McDonald's is 'pretty protein-forward,' executive says

Executive VP and Chief Restaurant Experience Officer Jill McDonald, who was also on the earnings call, said McDonald's "is pretty protein forward," offering options like fish, chicken strips, snack wraps and sausage biscuits.

"We have a number of items on the menu that customers who are on GLP-1 are enjoying," McDonald said, adding, "We do have a history of staying close to customers, and innovating and adapting our menu as required."

Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

McDonald added that the fast-food chain will "continue to learn" and see what will interest customers.


"We have a couple of ideas that we are already looking at for the longer term, (which will) be led by the customers and what they want from us," McDonald concluded.

GLP-1 drug use among both men and women more than doubled between 2024 and 2025, according to a survey released Oct. 28 by the Gallup National Health and Well-Being Index, with 12.4% of respondents admitting to taking the drugs compared to 5.8% in February 2024, when the research company initially measured it.

The drugs, which were approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for weight loss in 2021, have boomed as an effective way to shed weight and to prolong feelings of fullness to reduce food intake, USA TODAY previously reported. Those on GLP-1 medications are advised to consume sufficient quantities of protein, as rapid weight loss can also contribute to muscle loss.

Protein is the moment

From Target focusing on wellness to Starbucks and Dunkin' adding protein drinks to its menu, more and more companies have been rolling out protein-focused foods and drinks, putting the food component in the spotlight.

Other brands that have hopped on the protein trend include Subway, which added Protein Pockets to its menu, and Chipotle, which dropped a High Protein Menu – complete with a 4-ounce cup of meat.

On Jan. 7, Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced new U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommending eating more protein and less sugar and ultra-processed foods.

"As Secretary of Health and Human Services, my message is clear: Eat real food," Kennedy said.

Contributing: Nicole Fallert, USA TODAY

Saman Shafiq is a trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at [email protected] and follow her on X and Instagram @saman_shafiq7.