Shrinkflation is a sneaky way companies try to save money without you noticing. They keep prices the same but give you less product. It’s like a secret price hike that’s hard to spot. But don’t worry! Once you know what to look for, you can outsmart these tricks and get the most for your money.
Smaller Package Sizes
One of the most common shrinkflation tactics is simply making packages smaller. For example, Doritos bags shrank from 9.75 ounces to 9.25 ounces in 2021, but the price stayed the same. To beat this, always check the weight or volume on packages, not just the price. Compare the price per ounce or unit to find the best deal.
Hollow Bottoms on Containers
Some companies use containers with hollow or raised bottoms to make them look fuller. Ice cream maker Häagen-Dazs was caught doing this in 2019, reducing their pints from 16 ounces to 14 ounces. To avoid this trick, always check the weight on the label and compare it to similar products.
Thinner Products
Companies might make their products thinner while keeping the package the same size. Toilet paper is a common victim of this tactic. To combat this, feel the product’s thickness before buying, and compare it to other brands. You can also check the number of sheets per roll.
More Air in Packaging
Bags of chips and other snacks often contain more air (called “slack fill”) to make them seem fuller. While some air is necessary to protect the product, excessive amounts are deceptive. Shake the package gently to feel how much product is actually inside. Choose brands that fill their packages more completely.
Hidden Price Increases
Sometimes, companies introduce a “new and improved” version of a product at a higher price while discontinuing the old one. This happened with Pantene shampoo, which replaced its 12oz bottles with 10.4oz “concentrates” at the same price. Stay alert for these changes and consider switching brands if the value decreases.
Changing the Shape
Altering a product’s shape can make it seem like you’re getting the same amount when you’re not. Toblerone famously changed its chocolate bar shape in 2016, increasing the gaps between triangles. To avoid this, always check the weight and compare it to previous purchases or competing products.
Reducing Product Quality
Some companies might use cheaper ingredients or materials to cut costs while keeping the price the same. This is harder to spot but can often be noticed in taste or performance changes. Read ingredient lists carefully and be wary of sudden recipe changes.
Selling in Bulk with Less Value
Bulk packages don’t always offer better value. Sometimes, the price per unit is actually higher than smaller packages. Always calculate the price per unit (ounce, gram, etc.) to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Odd Numbers in Packaging
Instead of round numbers like 500g or 1kg, some products now come in odd sizes like 455g or 920g. This makes price comparisons more difficult. Use a calculator or phone app to quickly compare unit prices.
“New Recipe” Disguises
Companies might announce a “new recipe” that actually contains less of the expensive ingredients. For example, some juice brands have reduced fruit content in their “new recipes.” Always check the ingredient list and nutritional information to spot these changes.
Multipack Manipulation
Multipacks might contain fewer individual items or smaller portions. For instance, some yogurt multipacks have gone from 6 to 4 pots without a proportional price decrease. Count the items in multipacks and compare the total weight to individual purchases.
Seasonal Size Changes
Some products shrink during peak buying seasons, like ice cream in summer or chocolate during holidays. Keep an eye on seasonal variations and stock up when sizes are larger if the product has a long shelf life.
Hidden Volume Decreases
Liquid products might have less volume in redesigned bottles that look the same size. Always check the volume on the label, not just the bottle’s appearance. Compare it to your previous purchases to spot any changes.
“Limited Time” Smaller Sizes
Companies might introduce smaller sizes as “limited time offers” that then become permanent. This happened with many candy bars. Be wary of new size options and check if they offer the same value as the original.
Subscription Service Shrinkage
Subscription boxes for products like razors or snacks might gradually reduce the quantity or quality of items included. Regularly assess if your subscriptions are still providing good value, and don’t hesitate to cancel if they’re not.
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