Staff ReportsPresident Joe Biden has taken up the mantle of America’s snack-food enthusiast, both in terms of consumption and policy. With presidential predecessors like Ronald Reagan, known for his peachy Jelly Belly addiction, and Bill Clinton, who indulged in all manner of tasty treats, it comes as no surprise that Biden has issues with snack companies not keeping pace with his cravings. Apparently, reports of “shrinkflation” — that is, manufacturers quietly cutting back on the number of chips and candy bars while charging full price — have struck a chord with the commander-in-chief. His indignation over snack sizes was on full display during the most recent State of the Union address.
Biden didn’t mince words as he lambasted corporate America for impairing America’s snack experience, claiming these companies have been pocketing profits while leaving customers with lighter bags. With a spark of urgency that could only be matched by a toddler whose candy just went missing, he called for the passing of a bill dubbed the Shrinkflation Prevention Act. The proposal aims to direct the Federal Trade Commission to label shrinkflation as an “unfair or deceptive act.” Perhaps now America can finally get justice for its precious snack supplies!
Every country in the world got hit with post Covid inflation, but the US weathered the storm better than any other nation. We now have the lowest inflation and the strongest economy in the developed world. pic.twitter.com/62hQeNqUP3
— Let's Rewild a Billion Hectares 🇺🇦 🇺🇦 (@JustPlants4Life) October 31, 2024
The snack food corporations, however, didn’t cower in fear before Biden’s tirade. For example, Mars, the maker of Snickers bars, countered the president’s claims by asserting that they hadn’t actually reduced the size of their candies. As if swapping a few less peanuts for chocolate somehow absolves them from responsibility! Complaining about inflation and increased material costs, they insisted they are doing everything possible to keep prices low while consumers howl in disbelief at their shrinking bags. The irony of the situation would be almost humorous if it wasn’t such a serious matter to those who consider chips and candy essential food groups.
Meanwhile, the authors of the Shrinkflation Prevention Act, like Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey, are pushing the narrative that corporate greed is running rampant. Casey used Biden’s spotlight to amplify his own concerns about snack sizes, framing them as an affront to hardworking Americans. In his re-election campaign, Casey is pulling out all the stops, using impending snack shortages as fuel to rally disgruntled consumers. Somewhere, a small child is probably rolling their eyes in the candy aisle, thinking their future dining options are being debated in Congress.
As if the turmoil surrounding snack food wasn’t enough to pique the interest of voters, Casey’s research suggested that a significant portion of inflation could be attributed to greedy business practices. By highlighting examples like Frito-Lay shrinking the bag of Doritos, despite their profits soaring, he hopes to ignite a public outcry against these perceived injustices. But rather than financial villains lurking in every corner, one must wonder if the real culprit is merely economic forces at play as supply chains struggle to bounce back.
In what could only be viewed as an admission of consumer resentment, many snack manufacturers are starting to reverse course. Tostitos and Ruffles recently announced plans to deliver “bonus bags” filled with extra chips for the same price. It appears common sense has prevailed, showing that even corporate giants understand the backlash from outraged snack enthusiasts. In the end, Biden’s proclamation of ‘snack justice’ may only help the good-hearted Americans looking to fill their bellies — with or without Congress’ assistance.
