I stocked up on candy for the trick-or-treaters this weekend and I swear the fun-size bags are lighter than last year. Paid more than I did last fall too, so I'm guessing the price per ounce went up again. Has anyone actually compared what they're getting this year versus last? Are you buying the same brands and just accepting it, or switching to cheaper stuff or buying in bulk?
Shrinkflation around Halloween is a real pattern: the bag price stays similar or rises while the ounces quietly drop. Easiest check is the unit price on the shelf tag (per oz). Store brands and big warehouse-club variety packs usually come out cheaper per ounce than the fun-size bags in the seasonal aisle, and prices often drop right after Oct 31 if you're buying for next year's parties.
Unit price is the honest comparison. Another quiet cost bump this year is that more bags push "share size" or mixed candy where the cheaper pieces fill more of the weight. Checking the net ounces on the back and shopping after peak weekend often saves more than switching brands alone.