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Source: [https://fortune.com/2026/02/10/meat-snacks-have-emerged-as-the-clear-winner-of-americas-seismic-glp-1-consumption-shift-while-popcorn-is-down-bad/](https://fortune.com/2026/02/10/meat-snacks-have-emerged-as-the-clear-winner-of-americas-seismic-glp-1-consumption-shift-while-popcorn-is-down-bad/)Fortune
Summary
Meat snacks, a $5.5 billion industry, have experienced a surge in growth, driven by the increasing demand for protein-rich snacks. According to Bank of America Research, sales in the category grew 6.6% in 2025, outpacing the broader savory snacks market. The growth is attributed to the “Ozempic effect,” where the widespread adoption of GLP-1 medications has led to a fundamental shift in American diets. Consumers are seeking high-protein, portion-controlled snacks that provide satiety without high carbohydrate counts.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Meat snacks have emerged as the clear winner of America’s seismic GLP-1 consumption shift. While popcorn is down, meat snacks are up, driven by the desperate hunt for protein. Brands like Chomps, Archer, and Fatty are gaining ground with “protein-forward” messaging, and grass-fed options alone saw volumes grow by 81% year-over-year in 2025. The purchasing channels are also shifting, with sales booming in “Club” stores and online marketplaces.
The health-conscious wave has bifurcated the market, creating a “Better-For-You” (BFY) disruptor class that is eating into the market share of legacy giants. The industry is trying to formulate a support mechanism that makes sense, with protein coming in as a crucial part of the new GLP-1-friendly diet.
Original Observation: This is a classic case of the “protein premium,” where consumers are willing to pay more for convenience, taste, and perceived health benefits.
Author: Evan Null
