The chief executive of the company behind Ben & Jerry's and Magnum has said that weight-loss drugs reduce 'mindless munching' but do not eliminate the desire for treats, as the ice cream maker expands its range of portion-controlled options.
Peter ter Kulve, CEO of The Magnum Ice Cream Company (TMICC), emphasised that the firm is not concerned by the growing use of GLP-1 medications, which have raised fears of reduced sales for snack companies.
'When people are on GLP-1s, they do not stop eating treats,' Mr Kulve said. 'You do, however, see a stark reduction of mindless munching and binge eating. People on GLP-1s make more deliberate choices and have more control. This is actually a good thing.'
He described the trend as a 'real opportunity' for the company to offer lower-calorie treats at a premium price, noting that users seek smaller portions, fewer calories, more nutritional density, real ingredients, and more protein.
However, Mr Kulve noted that the US is currently the only region with significant GLP-1 usage, and the 'overall impact on the world is small'. He added: 'A more healthy society is good for everyone, and we are very keen to be part of that.'
TMICC, the world's largest ice cream maker, also owns Cornetto and Carte D'or. It has been introducing more portion-control products, such as bite-size Magnum Bonbons and Ben & Jerry's Peaces, to meet changing consumer demands.
