Stiftung Warentest: These Shady Packaging Practices Are Frustrating Consumers - German watchdog exposes how brands trick shoppers with sneaky packaging

German consumer watchdog Stiftung Warentest has criticised food manufacturers for misleading packaging tactics. Many products now contain less than they appear to, leaving shoppers frustrated. Some brands have responded with explanations that testers find unconvincing.

Several well-known products have been flagged for deceptive packaging. Haribo's Spaghetti Fizz THC gummies leave nearly a quarter of the bag empty, with the company claiming the extra space is needed because the fresh gummies are longer and shrink over time. Jacobs Espresso Sticks now hold 20 sticks instead of 25, yet the box still looks almost half full. The brand blamed rising coffee bean prices for the reduction.

Kölln's Banana Bread Style muesli features an inner bag that is only half full, which the company attributes to compression during transport and the use of sticky ingredients like dates. Flores Farm's macadamia nuts come in a pouch tightly pressed against the bottom of the outer packaging, supposedly to prevent damage if mishandled. Critics argue these explanations lack transparency and fail to justify the perceived shortfall.

The practice of shrinkflation—where product quantities shrink while prices stay the same or increase—has become widespread. Many consumers struggle to spot these changes at first glance, especially when labels provide inadequate information.

The watchdog's findings highlight a growing trend of reduced product quantities disguised by clever packaging. Manufacturers continue to adjust fill levels, often citing production costs or logistical reasons. Shoppers are left paying the same or more for less, with little clarity on the changes.