“Shrinkflation” Is Hitting Stores…And Wallets

Smaller quantities for the same price

The Pulse

Manufacturers around the world are skimping on products and hoping you don’t notice. Shrinkflation is the practice of shrinking package sizes without reducing price. In the United States, a small box of Kleenex has 60 sheets instead of the 65 it contained just months ago. Chobani Flips yogurts shrank from 5.3 ounces to 4.5.

If you notice smaller cereal boxes or chips bags, it may not be in your mind. Shrinkflation is another side effect of inflation, and its appealing to manufacturers because it often slips under the radar.

It’s not unusual for producers to update the packaging for a product with a new look to distract from the fact they have reduced the amount of product in the package. It is just happening more with inflation running so rampant now. (AP)