9 Grocery Items to Avoid in 2024 from Major Shrinkflation

Shrinkflation, the sneaky practice where manufacturers reduce product size while maintaining or increasing prices, has been creeping into grocery aisles with increasing frequency. Here are nine items that have been notably affected by shrinkflation, making them less cost-effective for consumers in 2024.

Example

Kraft Mac and Cheese: 225 grams to 200 grams without a change in price in 2023

Once a budget-friendly staple, some brands of boxed macaroni and cheese have seen a reduction in the amount of pasta and cheese sauce mix, offering less bang for your buck.

Example

M&Ms: Family size went from 10.07 ounces to 10 ounces in 2023. No change in price.

Candy lovers beware: packages of M&Ms, along with other sweets, have shrunk. You might find yourself paying the same price or more for a noticeably smaller serving.

Party and family-sized bags of tortilla chips are not as full as they used to be. With bags shrinking like Tostitos in 2023, going from 18 ounces to 15.5 ounces, your nacho nights might feel a little less festive.

Example

Kleenex: 65 papers to 60 papers in 2022. Still stands and price has only increased.

Even essential household items like toilet paper haven’t been spared. Some brands have reduced the number of sheets per roll, subtly cutting down on the amount you get for your money.

Chobani and other yogurt brands have downsized their containers from 5.3 ounces to 4.5 ounces. This reduction in product size can add up over time, especially for daily consumers.

Example

Tide Box: Had 254 ounces to now 232 ounces in 2023.

Laundry detergent bottles have seen a decrease in volume, offering fewer washes per purchase. This can significantly impact the cost per load, making laundry day more expensive.

Example

Sauve Shampoo: 30 fluid ounces to 22.5 fluid ounces in 2023.

Personal care products like shampoo and conditioner are also victims of shrinkflation, with bottles holding less product than they once did, forcing consumers to buy more frequently.

Coffee lovers, take note: brands like Folgers have reduced the size of their coffee cans while keeping prices steady or even increasing them. What used to be a 51-ounce can now might be 43.5 ounces, offering fewer cups of coffee per purchase.

Example

Doritos: 9.5 ounces to 9.25 ounces in 2023.

From Pringles to Doritos, snack sizes have been quietly shrinking. The cost per chip or crisp has effectively gone up, making these snacks a less economical choice for consumers.

• Compare Unit Prices: Always check the price per ounce or gram to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
• Consider Store Brands: Often, store-brand items are less affected by shrinkflation and offer better value.
• Buy in Bulk: When possible, purchasing in bulk can help mitigate the effects of shrinkflation.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on product sizes and prices to make informed purchasing decisions.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.