CNBC’s Kate Rogers reports on Chipotle's new high-protein menu items.

Chipotle has announced the introduction of its first high-protein menu, set to launch on December 23rd. The new menu is designed to appeal to consumers looking to boost their protein intake, including those using GLP-1 medications and focusing on macronutrient-rich diets. 

Menu items will feature options such as a double-protein bowl and a high-protein snack cup, with protein content ranging from 15 to 81 grams per item. Pricing will start at $3.50 for a single chicken taco at select locations, and the move aligns Chipotle with other brands catering to health-conscious, protein-focused customers.

Chipotle launches high-protein menu items

Chipotle trying to capitalize on the protein fad. Our Kate Rogers is with us now and has a look at some new offerings. Morning, Kate. Hey, good morning, Carl. Chipotle announcing today its first-ever high-protein menu, which will launch December 23rd. It's catering to consumers looking for ways to boost their protein intake. The company points to both a rise of GLP-1 usage and a focus on macronutrients. The menu has items that range from a double-protein bowl to its first-ever snack, which is a high-protein cup. The protein cup is four ounces of adobo chicken or steak, and all of the menu items have from between 15 to 81 grams of protein each. The menu pricing starts at $3.50 for a single chicken taco at certain stores. Chipotle joins the ranks here of Sweetgreen, Starbucks, and Dutch Bros in catering to the protein-hungry crowd. This also isn't the first time that CMG has gotten in on a healthy offering for diners. They've, remember, had Whole30 and Keto specialty menus in years past. While GLP-1s have been on all of the restaurant companies' minds, it's the first time I've really seen one cater directly to diners who may be on one of these drugs with a GLP-1-friendly salad offering. In its Restaurant Outlook, Goldman Sachs yesterday said that these drugs might not be all bad news for restaurants, writing, quote, GLP-1 consumers appear to prioritize portion control, higher protein and fiber, and lower sugar and refined carbohydrates, while cutting back on alcohol and indulgent items. This creates opportunity for concepts that can flex menus toward healthier, protein-forward, and smaller portion offerings. So, guys, this is exactly what CMG seems to be angling for here. Also in that outlook, Goldman writing, you know, Chipotle is looking to boost its traffic. So, again, that could be one way to do that here as well, guys.

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