Novonesis is positioning its dietary supplement portfolio as a potential beneficiary of the ongoing boom in GLP-1 weight loss medications. Company leadership argues that microbiome-focused products could serve as a valuable companion to these popular drugs, helping patients manage side effects and support long-term health outcomes.
Ester Baiget, the CEO of the biosolutions company, spoke to CNBC on Monday regarding this strategic direction. She noted that scientific evidence suggests their products can help patients on GLP-1 therapies feel better during treatment. Baiget highlighted an ongoing study with Novo Nordisk, a major producer of these medications, as a key driver for this research.
The company is currently investigating a specific combination of pro, pre, and post-biotics that Baiget described as a unique cocktail. The goal is to determine if this formulation can support the gut microbiome of patients taking Novo Nordisk drugs such as Wegovy and Ozempic. This approach differs from standard protein or vitamin supplements by focusing on the complex community of microorganisms living in the body.
The broader market for weight loss drugs has already begun to reshape consumer behavior across various industries. A survey by PwC of adults in the United Kingdom found that approximately 70 percent of GLP-1 users are reducing their spending on snacks. Conversely, 40 percent of these users are increasing their expenditure on vitamins and supplements, indicating a shift in dietary priorities.
Additionally, the survey revealed that more than 80 percent of respondents who had stopped taking the medication maintained some of the dietary changes they had adopted while on treatment. This suggests that the health habits formed during drug therapy may have lasting effects, further driving demand for nutritional support products.
Market analysts project significant growth in the dietary supplement sector. Grand View Research estimates that the global dietary supplements market was valued at 209.5 billion dollars in 2025. The firm projects this figure will more than double to reach 431.7 billion dollars by 2033. This growth is attributed to rising health awareness and consumer interest in functional foods and drinks.
Within this sector, the probiotic supplements market is also expanding rapidly. Valued at approximately 10.5 billion dollars in 2025, the market is expected to grow to 17.5 billion dollars by 2033. Novonesis aims to capitalize on this trend by offering scientifically backed solutions that address specific needs of patients using weight loss medications.
For Novonesis, success in this area could provide a vital boost to its human health division, which has recently faced challenges. The segment reported an 8 percent decline in organic sales in the third quarter, largely due to weaker demand for probiotic supplements sold through offline channels in North America.
The company, formed in 2024 through the merger of Novozymes and Chr. Hansen, is a leader in enzymes and microbial solutions. It holds nearly 50 percent of the global enzymes and cultures market, significantly ahead of its main rival, International Flavors and Fragrances. While North America accounts for about one-third of its total sales, the human health sector represents approximately 11 percent of its revenue.
If Novonesis can scientifically prove the benefits of its microbiome-based products for GLP-1 users, it may strengthen its position in a rapidly evolving market. The company continues to explore how nutrition and supplements can complement pharmacological treatments to improve overall patient outcomes.
