FRANKFURT (dpa-AFX) - Shares in Südzucker suffered significantly on Thursday as a result of a negative sector study by Barclays. The food group's papers fell by as much as 6.6 percent to 13.82 euros. The low for the year of 13.41 euros, which was only reached at the end of last week, has thus come back into focus.

The topic of GLP-1 is currently on everyone's lips. This refers to the new class of antidiabetic drugs, which have also proved to be a boon for people with weight problems. As a result, they have become a multi-billion dollar market. But one man's joy is another man's sorrow - because for food producers, curbed appetites are more of a curse.

In a recent industry study, Barclays expert Alex Sloane also addressed the burden of GLP-1, saying that the "bear scenario" caused by these drugs is difficult to assess. However, the increasingly negative perception of the health risks of highly processed foods could further depress growth forecasts. In any case, Sloane is becoming very cautious.

He lowered his Südzucker rating to "Underweight" with a target of only 12 euros. Südzucker is not directly affected by GLP-1, but could be if the wave of acceptance with the help of the funds spilled over into Europe. In addition, the expert sees a possible shift in the sugar market towards surpluses.

His earnings forecast for Südzucker for 2026 is more than a quarter below consensus./ag/tav/zb