Home / Business and Economy / Milka Choco Shrinks: Court Cries Foul
Milka Choco Shrinks: Court Cries Foul
13 May
Summary
- Court ruled Milka's wrapper change misled consumers.
- Manufacturer Mondelēz accused of breaking competition law.
- Shrinkflation affects chocolate, toothpaste, coffee, and oats.
In a significant German ruling, a court determined that Mondelēz, the manufacturer of Milka chocolate, misled consumers and violated competition law. The court found that reducing the weight of the iconic Alpine Milk bar from 100g to 90g while maintaining its familiar wrapper constituted deception.
The Hamburg consumer protection office initiated the case, accusing Mondelēz of cheating customers. The company acknowledged adjusting bar weights due to rising supply chain costs, stating they informed consumers via their website and social media channels. However, the court emphasized that a clear notice on the wrapper was necessary to avoid misleading consumers about the product's expected size.
This verdict is part of a broader trend where manufacturers employ "shrinkflation" to offset increased costs. The practice has also affected other products, including Ritter Sport chocolate bars, which saw some varieties reduced from 100g to 75g, though their packaging was altered. Other food items like oats and coffee have also been subject to similar downsizing.
