The shrinking scoop

Ice-cream's makeover in the GLP-1 era.

One Essential Read One Essential Read Recommended by Kate Turton, Newsletter Editor Ice cream makers bet consumers still want treats, just healthier ones   Twister ice creams line in the production chain at Unilever Wall's ice cream factory in Gloucester, Britain. REUTERS/Isabel Infantes/File Photo Ice cream companies are preparing for a future where consumers want fewer reasons to feel guilty about treating themselves. The rise ‌of appetite-suppressing GLP-1 drugs, demand for healthier foods and growing ingredient scrutiny are pushing manufacturers to reduce portion sizes, increase protein content in their recipes and clean up ingredients lists. In the US, ice cream sales volumes fell 1.5% year-on-year through June 13, according to NielsenIQ. Boston Consulting Group research shows GLP-1 users cut frozen treat consumption by at least 10%. Ice cream makers are betting that shoppers will continue to indulge, as long as treats come with fewer calories, more protein and simpler ingredient lists. Read the full article   Sponsors are not involved in the creation of newsletters or other Reuters news content. Advertise in this newsletter or on Reuters' website   Reuters One Essential Read is sent three days a week. Think your friend or colleague should know about us? Forward this newsletter to them. They can also sign up here. Want to stop receiving this email? Unsubscribe here. To manage which newsletters you're signed up for, click here. This email includes limited tracking for Reuters to understand whether you’ve engaged with its contents. For more information on how we process your personal information and your rights, please see our Privacy Statement. Terms & Conditions   © 2026 Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved. 3 Times Square, New York, NY 10036