Money Smarts Blog

It’s smaller. It’s sneaky. It’s … shrinkflation!

It’s not your imagination — there really are less chips in your bag. Why? Because brands are selling smaller amounts of product for the same price. This downsizing is an unfortunate by-product of inflation, which has forced many manufacturers to choose between raising the price of an item or simply giving you less.

Shrinkflation is particularly noticeable in the snack aisle (darn you, sweet tooth), but we’ve seen it throughout the grocery store.

PRO TIP: WATCH FOR DISGUISES Brands will often try to disguise shrinkflation through a clever package change-up, or market your favorite candy “now with less calories!” Don’t take the bait. If you notice a product has shrunk, look to similar products from competitors and compare unit prices to see where you can get the best deal. 

UNIT PRICE = TOTAL PRICE ÷ QUANTITY

Lays Classic Party Size:

Before: 15.25 Ounces

After: 13 Ounces

Change: 14.75% Less

Pantene:

Before: 12 Fluid Ounces

After: 10.4 Fluid Ounces

Change: 13.33% Less

Huggies:

Before: 96 Diapers

After: 84 Diapers

Change: 12.5% Less

Toilet Paper 264 2-Ply Sheets:

Before: 264 Sheets

After: 244 Sheets

Change: 7.58% Less

Gatorade:

Before: 32 Fluid Ounces

After: 28 Fluid Ounces

Change: 12.5% Less

Reese's Puffs

Before: 19.3 Ounces

After: 18.1 Ounces

Change: 6.22%