Products are 'shrinking' and Aussies are not happy about it

The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


Screen Shot 2022-11-08 at 9.53.54 AM.png
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


Screen Shot 2022-11-08 at 9.54.01 AM.png
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
 
Sponsored
The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


View attachment 8539
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


View attachment 8540
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
Over the last 18 months the cat food sachets that my cats love have gone from 100gm to 80gm and the price has still gone up. The same has happened to a lot of products. I refuse to buy cream biscuits anymore because the size is a joke. Potato chips have been shrinking for years as well as chocolates. I wonder where it will end.
 
The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


View attachment 8539
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


View attachment 8540
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
I use 'skinny' Carnation milk to make a carbonara. The tins used to be 385ml but have shrunk to 340ml! So what used to make up a meal for 4 people is now down to a meal for 3
 
The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


View attachment 8539
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


View attachment 8540
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
If you or carried out the same practice they would be screaming theft.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Ezzy, RTS and Ricci
It's incredibly annoying when you have a recipe that calls for a specific quantity and they shrink the size. For years, I've been making a rum torte recipe that calls for "one" packet of Nice biscuits. Because of shrinkage, I now require 1-1/2 packets. That's not too terrible because the leftover biscuits won't go off. However, I have a rice pudding recipe that requires a can of evaporated milk. Because of shrinkage, I now require more than one can, and the rest usually gets wasted because it goes off before I can use it. Just a couple of examples from many instances of how shrinkage is a pain in the neck as well as the wallet.
 
  • Like
  • Sad
Reactions: Ezzy and Ricci
In your article you say this is a sneaky way that supermarkets are increasing their prices. This makes it sound like the supermarkets are the villains but in reality it is the food companies that are shrinking their packaging then they also charge the supermarkets more for their item.
 
The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


View attachment 8539
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


View attachment 8540
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
Many items have been drastically increased in price then "discounted" to a level which is above the original price. Mainland butter is a great example. It was once $5+ a tub and was then increased to $7 (a 40% or so increase), later to be "discounted" to $6 or $6.50 a tub, when "on special". That's still an increase of over 20% from the original price.
 
  • Like
  • Sad
Reactions: Ezzy and Ricci
Many items have been drastically increased in price then "discounted" to a level which is above the original price. Mainland butter is a great example. It was once $5+ a tub and was then increased to $7 (a 40% or so increase), later to be "discounted" to $6 or $6.50 a tub, when "on special". That's still an increase of over 20% from the original price.
Speaking of butter, the same thing happened with Bertoli's olive oil/butter spread. It shrunk from 450 grams to 375 and the price went up significantly. As much as I liked the product, I felt it was too much and switched to another brand.
 
The cost of living has been rising steadily for years now (you've probably heard this enough times already). It seems like every time we go to buy something, the price has gone up since the last time we made a purchase.

And while this is frustrating enough in and of itself, it turns out that there's another way supermarkets are slowly eroding our wallets - and it's even more sneaky than just increasing prices!



It's called 'shrinkflation', and it refers to the practice of food companies and supermarkets reducing the size or quantity of products without reducing the price. So you're paying the same amount of money, but you're getting less in return.

What's even more concerning is that this trend appears to be on the rise in Australia… It's disheartening, especially when you feel like your budget is already stretched thin as it is!


View attachment 8539
Aussies are feeling the pinch of 'shrinkflation' in supermarkets and restaurants. Credit: Getty Images.



For example, on the popular forum website Reddit, one user shared that they noticed Weet-Bix boxes have gradually been shrinking in size over recent years, from 1.2kg to 1.12kg - but they still cost $5! That means you're paying around $4.46 per kilo instead of $4 per kilo like you used to be able to.

Another person pointed out that Nutri-Grain value packs have shrunk from 805g to 765g - but they have increased in price from $8.50 to $10! That works out at a whopping $13 per kilo now.

And if you want Black Swan dips, be prepared for a smaller serving size too; 200g tubs are being phased out in favour of 170g tubs… for the same price! Outrageous!


View attachment 8540
Serving sizes have downsized on certain grocery store staples like Weet-Bix, but the prices have stayed the same. Credit: Reddit.





Of course, it's not just supermarket staples that are being hit by shrinkflation; even our beloved cafes are being impacted. There have also been complaints from several Aussies that the portion sizes at their favourite cafes have shrunk, while the costs have remained the same (or even increased).

On social media, a customer aired out their frustration when one café in Sydney's northern suburbs halved the amount of avocado toast you get on your plate, but they're still charging the same price.
Key Takeaways

  • Aussies are accusing companies and supermarkets of 'shrinkflation', which is the practice of charging the same price for a smaller quantity or serving.
  • This change has been incremental, so some shoppers may not even notice at all.
  • Supermarket staples and restaurant portions are some of the items affected by this trend.


It's not just Aussies who are being affected by this either; shrinkflation is a global issue. In the UK, for example, a study found that the average pack of toilet paper had shrunk by almost 3% in just 5 years - but the price had stayed the same.

So, what can we do about it? Unfortunately, not a whole lot. This is a sneaky way for supermarkets to slowly increase prices without us really noticing.

All we can do is try to be more aware of what we're buying, and compare prices and serving sizes before we make a purchase.

Don't worry, though; the SDC team promises to give you up-to-date details as well as money-saving advice so you can set your budget in advance.
Tip
For more information, we recommend visiting the Money Saving Hacks forum.
So, members, what are your thoughts on 'shrinkflation', and do you think you've been a victim as well? Let us know in the comments below!
Yep beer sizes small than before and price's rise pay more for less,the Macca's burgers 🍔 small and dearer, KFC bigger pieces are gone they are small (smaller size bird than before and alot of groceries are small as you stated blatant highway robbery
 
  • Like
Reactions: Ezzy and Ricci
use it in your coffee/brea
It's incredibly annoying when you have a recipe that calls for a specific quantity and they shrink the size. For years, I've been making a rum torte recipe that calls for "one" packet of Nice biscuits. Because of shrinkage, I now require 1-1/2 packets. That's not too terrible because the leftover biscuits won't go off. However, I have a rice pudding recipe that requires a can of evaporated milk. Because of shrinkage, I now require more than one can, and the rest usually gets wasted because it goes off before I can use it. Just a couple of examples from many instances of how shrinkage is a pain in the neck
 

Join the conversation

News, deals, games, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.

Seniors Discount Club

The SDC searches for the best deals, discounts, and bargains for Aussies over 60. From everyday expenses like groceries and eating out, to electronics, fashion and travel, the club is all about helping you make your money go further.
  1. New members
  2. Jokes & fun
  3. Photography
  4. Nostalgia / Yesterday's Australia
  5. Food and Lifestyle
  6. Money Saving Hacks
  7. Offtopic / Everything else
  • We believe that retirement should be a time to relax and enjoy life, not worry about money. That's why we're here to help our members make the most of their retirement years. If you're over 60 and looking for ways to save money, connect with others, and have a laugh, we’d love to have you aboard.
  • Advertise with us

User Menu

Enjoyed Reading our Story?

  • Share this forum to your loved ones.
Change Weather Postcode×
Change Petrol Postcode×