Sneaky new trick could see your supermarket bill skyrocket
As if the weekly shop wasn’t pricey enough, if a new policy is approved by the Federal Government, it may be getting even more expensive.
The National Measurement Institute is proposing a new change to product labels which would see consumers getting less bang for their buck.
The new policy would allow manufacturers to remove the weight measurement from their items’ packaging, meaning they could change the quantity at will without the average customer even realising.
Under current regulations, manufacturers must display the weight on the front of their products so that consumers are able to easily work out which item is better value for money.
The proposal (along with a review of the nation’s measurement laws) was announced by Assistant Industry, Innovation and Science Minister Craig Laundy. He claims the new changes would benefit everyone – customers, businesses and the industry.
“In simple terms, a strong measurement framework protects businesses and consumers by ensuring we all get what we pay for at the cash register,” he said.
“This policy statement will help ensure regulations are easier for industry to comply with, and that consumers can have confidence they are receiving what they pay for.”
However, consumer group Choice says the new change would be a step backwards in terms of transparency between customers and business.
“This change only helps industry rip us off in the supermarket,” Choice’s head of media, Tom Godfrey, told news.com.au.
“With consumers struggling with the cost of living, being able to easily see how much you’re getting for your money is vital. This proposed labelling change is a clear decision to put the interests of big business ahead of your family finances.”
Research conducted by Choice backs up their statement, showing that 92 per cent of Aussies believe having easily accessible weight labels on products is important.
“The research couldn’t be clearer, consumers want pack weights to stay exactly where they are – on the front of pack,” Godfrey explained. “It seems clear that some sections of industry have waged war on pack weight transparency to help disguise the fact that they are shrinking their packs and reducing value."
Tell us in the comments below, do you think weight labels should remain on product packaging?