Be careful when shopping – cheeky deceptive packages disguise price increases

We grab a pack of sausages, pasta or vegetables. We have bought the product several times and are happy that it has not increased in price or only slightly. But watch out! The devil is in the details!

Some manufacturers simply change the filling quantity of a package rather than the price, thus obscuring the actual price increase. Ever since Manner recently made headlines with a mock packaging of “Mozart Mignon” slices, consumer advocates have been warning against such price concealment. “Considering the crisis, consumers have become more vigilant, we are currently getting a lot of reports,” complains Teresa Bauer of the VKI (Association for Consumer Information) in the “Krone” interview.

Instead of 100 grams there is only 80 grams in it
A pack then costs about the same, but instead of 100 grams it only contains 90 or 80 grams, with such changes becoming more and more absurd. For example, if a package contains only 97 grams instead of 100 grams to keep up appearances. According to the VKI, this mainly occurs with cocoa or butter packed in boxes and confectionery manufacturers also rely on this strategy.

Tutti Frutti, the fruit-flavoured candy brand, did it months ago: instead of 20 grams, the family packaging suddenly only contained 15 grams per box.

Double bottoms & Co.: How to recognize the tricks
Double bottoms, more cardboard and plastic – only those who remember and compare the original filling amount can see the trick. Because some manufacturers are particularly creative when it comes to packaging design. To keep these about the same size, there is simply more cardboard, plastic and cavities such as double bottoms in boxes and cans.

The official argument is often “technical supplies”. Unfortunately, according to studies, customers prefer large packaging, which exacerbates the problem. For chips, it is considered normal if the package is only 80 percent or less full.

Now there are hardly any boundaries. There is no legal regulation that prohibits manufacturers from doing this. Each case must be checked individually. This is what happened to Manner. The case could give rise to a reconsideration. Because the Vienna Commercial Court convicted the confectionery manufacturer for a deceptive deceptive packaging (not legally binding).

The bag of “Mignon” contains a quarter less
The court compared the products “Original Napolitaner”, “Hazelnut Mignon” and “Mozart Mignon”. The packages of all three products are the same size and are often side by side on the shelves. But while “Original Napolitaner” and “Hazelnut Mignon” are filled with 400 grams, the bag of the “Mozart Mignon” slices contains 100 grams – or a quarter – less.

Consumer advocates now hope Manner’s example will set a precedent. Manufacturers need to realize that they can’t get away with it. VKI expert Teresa Bauer calls for caution and provides helpful tips to spot hidden price increases.

What consumers can do:

• Compare the filling quantity stated on the packaging with that of comparable products.

• Note the base price. Traders are obliged to state the basic price by weight for goods in ready-made packaging. For example, the basic price of the smaller package of chocolate bars is cheaper than the large package. Or that manufacturer A has a lower base price than manufacturer B, even though their package is smaller and more expensive. But even here they sometimes cheat! Once the base price refers to 100 grams, then again to a kilo.

• If possible, buy goods in clear packaging.

However, there is no perfect protection against fraudulent packaging. Also because comparing takes time, which many consumers do not have.