Paying More but Getting Less Food

The economy already feels tough. Paying more money for less food only makes it worse. Many shoppers notice that grocery items no longer last as long as they used to. The amount of food inside packages keeps shrinking, even though prices stay the same.

How Food Packages Are Getting Smaller

Many popular food products now contain less food than before. For example, chip companies sell bags with nearly 20% less product than they did in 2009. Companies often claim that the extra amount was only a “limited-time offer.”

Pasta boxes also show this change. A box that once held 16 ounces now contains about 13.25 ounces. Canned vegetables have shrunk too. Many cans now hold only 13 ounces instead of 16. You can see this trend across many items, including tuna, sugar, and snacks.

Why Companies Can Charge the Same Price

You may wonder how companies get away with this. According to The New York Times and Harvard marketing professor John T. Gourville, packaging plays a key role.

Shoppers notice price increases more than size changes. Companies use packaging tricks to hide smaller portions. They often keep the height and width the same. Instead, they reduce depth or add extra air. As a result, the package looks the same on the shelf.

Packaging Tricks You Should Watch For

One clear example is “fresh packs” of crackers. These boxes show neatly stacked packs that appear convenient. However, they actually contain about 15% less product than before.

Some companies also claim they want to be more environmentally friendly. For instance, Procter & Gamble says it uses less energy, water, or packaging. While that sounds good, less packaging usually means less product inside.

How to Shop Smarter at the Grocery Store

Now more than ever, shoppers need to stay alert. Always check the weight or size listed on the label. Compare products carefully before adding them to your cart.

Also, avoid grabbing new packages right away. New designs often hide smaller portions. In many cases, the older or standard version offers more food for the same price.