A German court has ruled that the maker of Milka chocolate bars cheated consumers by reducing the size of the product while keeping the packaging virtually unchanged, in a case that highlights the growing phenomenon of shrinkflation.
The Ruling
The regional court in Bremen sided with Hamburg's consumer protection office, which accused Mondelēz, the US owner of Milka, of deceiving shoppers. The court found that cutting the weight of Milka's classic Alpine Milk bar from 100 grams to 90 grams without significantly altering the distinctive purple packaging was misleading.
The ruling stated that a clear notice should have been included on the packaging for at least four months to allow consumers to understand the change. The decision is not final, and Mondelēz has one month to appeal.
Shrinkflation in the Chocolate Industry
Shrinkflation, where product sizes are reduced but prices remain the same or increase, has become common as manufacturers face rising costs. After last year's changes, the Milka bar became a millimetre thinner, and the price rose from €1.49 to €1.99.
Chocolate has become more expensive due to poor harvests in West Africa, particularly Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire, which produce over half of the world's cocoa beans. Mondelēz has previously cited higher costs for ingredients like cocoa and dairy, as well as energy and transport, as reasons for pack size reductions.
Other Examples of Shrinkflation
Ahead of Christmas, widespread shrinkflation was reported in the confectionery aisle, including lighter boxes of Quality Street and Celebrations, as well as smaller Terry's Chocolate Oranges. Toblerone, another Mondelēz brand, also saw 20 grams shaved off its 360-gram bar, reducing it to 340 grams.
Consumer Reaction
Mondelēz told the court it had informed German consumers about the change on its website and social media channels. However, a German poll voted the Milka Alpenmilch bar as "rip-off packaging of the year 2025."
This is not the first time Mondelēz has faced backlash over shrinking chocolate bars. In 2016, the company widened the gaps between Toblerone's triangular chunks instead of raising prices, but reverted to the original shape two years later.
Company Response
Mondelēz said it was examining the court's ruling in detail. "Our aim has always been, and remains, to communicate transparently, comprehensively, and responsibly with everyone who buys and enjoys our products," the company added.
