JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Shrinkflation.
It’s a word that was just added to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary in 2022.
It’s defined as “the practice of reducing a product’s amount or volume per unit while continuing to offer it at the same price.”
“Ever bought a candy bar that seemed somehow smaller than you remembered but that still costs the same? It’s no illusion; it’s shrinkflation,” Merriam-Webster writes.
It’s the inflation you’re not supposed to see. From toilet paper to yogurt and coffee to corn chips, manufacturers are quietly shrinking package sizes without lowering prices. And the practice is accelerating worldwide.
Now, a famous “Sesame Street” character known for his sweet tooth is weighing in on the hot topic, and politicians are taking notice.
“Me hate shrinkflation! Me cookies are getting smaller,” Cookie Monster posted on the social media platform “X” on Monday. “Guess me going to have to eat double da cookies!”
Me hate shrinkflation! Me cookies are getting smaller. 😔
— Cookie Monster (@MeCookieMonster) March 4, 2024
The tweet has already been viewed 2.3 million times and elicited reactions from several U.S. senators and even the White House.
MORE: No, you’re not imagining it — package sizes are shrinking
“C is for consumers getting ripped off. President Biden is calling on companies to put a stop to shrinkflation,” The White House responded from its official account.
We want to know: Have you noticed shrinkflation in the products you buy?
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