Chains from Dunkin’ to Subway are kicking off 2026 with protein-heavy launches, pushing the nutrient from niche fitness trend to mainstream menu staple. This shift reflects a growing demand for higher-protein options, partly driven by weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Zepbound, which encourage smaller, protein-forward meals.
Dunkin added protein milk This week on its menu, customers are given a boost of coffee and lattes with 15 grams of protein. Subway created Protein Pockets, soft tortilla wraps with over 20 grams of protein. Blaze Pizza launches “Protein-Za” with cauliflower crust and double chicken, marketed as GLP-1-friendly. Jack in the Box ships its protein bowls nationwide with up to 35 grams per serving.
The trend started gaining momentum last fall when Starbucks added protein lattes and cold foam. Chipotle unveiled its first high-protein menu in December, apparently targeting GLP-1 users. Even health-focused chains like El Pollo Loco are doubling the chicken in salads to bump up the protein to 50 grams.
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Chains from Dunkin’ to Subway are kicking off 2026 with protein-heavy launches, pushing the nutrient from niche fitness trend to mainstream menu staple. This shift reflects a growing demand for higher-protein options, partly driven by weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Zepbound, which encourage smaller, protein-forward meals.
Dunkin added protein milk This week on its menu, customers are given a boost of coffee and lattes with 15 grams of protein. Subway created Protein Pockets, soft tortilla wraps with over 20 grams of protein. Blaze Pizza launches “Protein-Za” with cauliflower crust and double chicken, marketed as GLP-1-friendly. Jack in the Box ships its protein bowls nationwide with up to 35 grams per serving.
The trend started gaining momentum last fall when Starbucks added protein lattes and cold foam. Chipotle unveiled its first high-protein menu in December, apparently targeting GLP-1 users. Even health-focused chains like El Pollo Loco are doubling the chicken in salads to bump up the protein to 50 grams.
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