With approximately 2.5 million people in the United Kingdom currently using weight-loss injections such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, supermarkets are responding to shifting dietary habits by introducing new, smaller meal options. These products aim to cater to individuals with reduced appetites, a trend that is altering the landscape of grocery offerings. Major retailers including Marks & Spencer, Morrisons, and the Co-op have launched ranges specifically designed for those utilizing these injections, featuring meals with smaller portions that still provide essential nutrients.
The new meal selections include a variety of options such as microwaveable dinners, quick lunches, healthy curries, salads, and desserts—all designed to meet the nutritional needs of those consuming less. Annette Peters, head of food trends at Marks & Spencer, noted, “We know the use of GLP-1 medications is growing, so it’s more important than ever to ensure that, even if people are eating smaller portions, we help provide them with the right level of nutrients.”
While Morrisons and the Co-op explicitly market their offerings to those on weight-loss jabs, Marks & Spencer positions its new Nutrient Dense range as suitable for all consumers. To evaluate the taste and quality of these new products, a selection of meals from each retailer was put to the test.
Evaluating the New Offerings
**Marks & Spencer Nutrient Dense Tandoori Chicken** (400g, £7) presents an interesting take on the classic curry. With marinated chicken in a flavorful sauce accompanied by cauliflower, red onions, peppers, and spinach, this meal emphasizes nutrition without sacrificing taste. Each serving contains 344 calories and over 40g protein, incorporating three of the recommended five servings of vegetables per day. The chicken, seasoned with spices such as garlic, ginger, and coriander, offers a satisfying flavor profile. Although the use of cauliflower instead of rice may not appeal to everyone, it aligns with health-conscious dining.
In comparison, the **Co-op Good Fuel Chicken and Sweet Potato Penang Curry** (250g, £3.50) features British chicken breast in a coconut sauce, paired with brown rice and sweet potato. It provides 20g protein and 349 calories. While the flavor is described as subtle and enjoyable, the texture of the chicken raised concerns, with some pieces reported as dry.
**Morrisons Applied Nutrition High Protein Chicken Tikka Salad Bowl** (240g, £4.25) takes a different approach, focusing on a salad rather than a traditional meal. With 243 calories and a mix of ingredients including lentils and a yogurt dressing, this option is meant for those looking for a cold dish. While it boasts an array of flavors, some consumers may find it lacks the warmth and comfort often desired in winter meals.
Assessing Variety and Flavor
Among the offerings, **Morrisons Applied Nutrition High Protein Meat Feast Pizza** (260g, £4.75) stands out as a healthier pizza option. It combines jalapenos, Cajun chicken, and other meats, delivering 34g protein at 537 calories. Despite its health claims, some customers expressed disappointment regarding the flavor and overall value compared to larger, traditional pizzas available in-store.
The **Co-op Good Fuel Teriyaki Chicken and Veg Noodles** (280g, £3.50) offers a stir-fry experience with British chicken and teriyaki sauce. Although the vibrant vegetables and quick preparation are appealing, the overall taste received mixed reviews, with some noting a lack of flavor in the noodles.
In the realm of vegetarian options, **Marks & Spencer Nutrient Dense Cauliflower Shawarma and Five-Bean Houmous** (255g, £3.50) provides a Mediterranean-inspired meal with roasted cauliflower and various beans. While it may not fulfill the expectations set by its name, the meal’s flavors and textures received positive feedback for their freshness.
Finally, **M&S Nutrient Dense Cauli-Rice Prawn Paella** (400g, £7) rounds out the lineup. This dish, featuring king prawns and a rich sauce, garnered praise for its indulgent flavors and nutritional value, including three of the five daily vegetable servings.
As supermarkets adapt to dietary shifts driven by weight-loss medications, the introduction of these new meals seeks to provide accessible, nutritious options for consumers. Whether the smaller portions compromise flavor remains a matter of personal taste, but the variety available reflects an ongoing commitment to health and wellness in modern dining.
