Good News for Chip Lovers: Tostitos and Ruffles to Offer More Chips in ‘Bonus’ Bags
Good News for Chip Lovers
A representative for PepsiCo, the makers of chips that include Tostitos and Ruffles, has confirmed that the company will soon add 20% more chips to "bonus" bags of Ruffles and Tostitos for the same retail price. This news comes as consumers online are complaining about "shrinkflation," a phenomenon where companies reduce the size of their products while keeping the price unchanged or increasing it.
The Case of Shrinkflation
Shrinking product sizes have been a widespread issue in recent years, with consumers feeling frustrated about getting less value for their money. In 2021, the Consumer World website reported that a bag of Tostitos’ "Hint of Guacamole" chips had shrunk in size from 12 ounces to 11 ounces. Similarly, a bag of Tostitos "Hint of Lime" chips had dropped from 13 ounces to 11 ounces.
Social Media Frenzy
The issue of shrinkflation has caused a stir online, with many consumers taking to social media to express their frustration. A quick search for #shrinkflation content on X and TikTok shows shoppers annoyed by the skimpier content sizes of everything from Chef Bombay frozen dinners to Glad kitchen garbage bags to the now "comically small" McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish. One TikTok user even filmed himself opening a snack-size bag of Doritos to find only five chips inside. "Five chips!" he yells in frustration while holding up five fingers.
Lawmakers Take Action
Despite the skimpier packaging sizes, prices of salty snacks have continued to rise in recent years. In September 2020, the average price of a 16-ounce bag of potato chips was $5.02, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By September 2024, the price had jumped to $6.46. Lawmakers are now getting involved, with Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts and Rep. Madeleine Dean of Pennsylvania calling out PepsiCo, General Mills, and Coca-Cola for using shrinkflation tactics to boost their bottom line.
Conclusion
The introduction of more chips in "bonus" bags of Ruffles and Tostitos is a welcome move by PepsiCo, but it remains to be seen if this will curb the widespread practice of shrinkflation. As consumers continue to feel the pinch of rising prices, lawmakers will need to keep a close eye on these companies to ensure they are not taking advantage of consumers. By providing more value for the money, companies can build trust and loyalty with their customers, ultimately driving growth and success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is shrinkflation?
A: Shrinkflation is the practice of reducing the size of a product while keeping the price unchanged or increasing it.
Q: Which companies are accused of using shrinkflation tactics?
A: PepsiCo, General Mills, and Coca-Cola are among the companies accused of using shrinkflation tactics.
Q: What is the average price of a 16-ounce bag of potato chips?
A: In September 2020, the average price was $5.02, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. By September 2024, the price had jumped to $6.46.
