10 Grocery Staples Quietly Shrinking in Size

As grocery prices continue to rise, manufacturers are finding clever ways to pass on the cost to consumers. One of these tactics is shrinking the size of their products while keeping the prices the same. This trend, known as “shrinkflation,” is more prevalent than you might think.

Our list of shrinking grocery staples is based on real-world trends, data culled from grocery store shelves, expert interviews, and consumer surveys. We’ve done the legwork so you don’t have to. This list will not only help you become a smarter shopper but will also give you insights into the current state of the food industry.

1. Peanut Butter Jars

Peanut butter is a popular pantry staple due to its versatility and nutritional profile. It’s a source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it a favorite among health-conscious consumers. However, you may not have noticed that your favorite brand’s jar has gotten smaller over the years.

Now, more than ever, consumers need to be cautious about the value they’re getting from their purchases. Companies have been quietly reducing the size of peanut butter jars, meaning you’re getting less for your money. According to Consumer Reports, some brands have decreased their jars’ sizes by as much as two ounces.

2. Toilet Paper Rolls

While toilet paper may not be the most exciting item on your shopping list, it’s certainly a necessity. Most households stock up on toilet paper without much thought about the product’s size or quantity. But if you’ve been buying the same brand for years, you might want to take a closer look.

Some toilet paper manufacturers have been quietly shrinking the size of their rolls. This means fewer sheets per roll and ultimately, less value for your money. In a comparison study by Consumer Reports, some brands were found to have 25% fewer sheets than they did a few years ago.

3. Chocolate Bars

Chocolate bars are a beloved treat worldwide. They’re often bought on impulse or as a small indulgence. While the price of chocolate bars hasn’t seen a significant increase, the size of the bars themselves has been on a steady decline.

The reduction in chocolate bar size is particularly noticeable in the UK, where several popular brands have downsized their products. According to BBC News, some brands have reduced the size of their bars by as much as 20% without lowering prices.

4. Breakfast Cereal Boxes

Breakfast cereals are a quick and convenient meal option, especially for households with children. They’re often seen as a good value due to their long shelf-life and versatility. However, cereal lovers might be disappointed to learn that their favorite box isn’t as big as it used to be.

The size of cereal boxes has been shrinking, while the prices remain the same. This is a trend that’s been observed across several popular brands. A report by the National Consumers League highlights the extent of this shrinkflation in the cereal industry.

5. Ice Cream Tubs

Ice cream is a universally-loved treat that’s kept in most freezers as a reward or a comfort food. But if you’ve been buying the same brand for years, you might not have noticed that your tub of ice cream is not as big as it used to be.

In recent years, several ice cream manufacturers have reduced the size of their tubs. According to a report by Today, what used to be a standard half-gallon tub now often contains just 1.5 quarts.

6. Canned Tuna

Canned tuna is a pantry staple known for its high protein content and long shelf life. It’s a convenient option for quick meals and is often bought in bulk. But if you’ve been purchasing the same brand for a while, you might not have noticed that your can of tuna has gotten smaller.

Several tuna manufacturers have been quietly reducing the size of their cans, giving you less product for the same price. According to a study by the National Consumers League, some brands have decreased their can size by as much as 20%.

7. Coffee

Coffee is a daily necessity for many people, making it a staple in most households. It’s often bought in bulk to save money and to ensure a steady supply. However, if you’ve been purchasing the same brand for years, you may not have noticed that your bag of coffee has gotten smaller.

Several coffee brands have been quietly reducing the size of their bags, giving you less coffee for the same price. A Consumer Reports study found that certain brands have reduced their bag size by as much as 25%.

8. Orange Juice

Orange juice is a breakfast favorite known for its high vitamin C content. It’s also a common ingredient in various recipes. However, if you’ve been buying the same brand for years, you might not have noticed that your carton of orange juice is not as big as it used to be.

Several brands of orange juice have been quietly reducing the size of their cartons, giving you less juice for the same price. According to a report by the National Consumers League, some brands have decreased their carton size by as much as 10%.

9. Yogurt

Yogurt is a popular snack and breakfast food known for its probiotic benefits. It’s also a versatile ingredient in various recipes. However, if you’ve been buying the same brand for years, you might not have noticed that your container of yogurt is not as big as it used to be.

Several yogurt brands have been quietly reducing the size of their containers, giving you less yogurt for the same price. A Consumer Reports study found that certain brands have reduced their container size by as much as 20%.

10. Chips

Chips are a popular snack known for their crunch and flavor. They’re often bought in bulk for parties or as a treat. However, if you’ve been buying the same brand for years, you might not have noticed that your bag of chips is not as full as it used to be.

Several chip brands have been quietly reducing the amount of chips in their bags, giving you less product for the same price. According to a report by the National Consumers League, some brands have decreased their product amount by as much as 20%.