Shopper says 'new' Tofurky slices have less protein, less food, and cost 46% more

An online discussion about tofu-based turkey slices by Tofurky highlighted issues with shrinkflation.

Here's what to know

In a Reddit thread posted to the site's r/Shrinkflation forum, the original poster wrote, the "'new' version has less protein and smaller serving size, and [still] costs 46% more."

OP added that the Tofurky deli slices in question "Went from 15g of protein in a 52 gram serving size to 14g in a 55 gram serving size. Also half an oz less in the package for $3 more. I thought the new package was going to be more product since it cost way more, nope it's less but it looks bigger and uses more plastic for the package."

One commenter focused on the overall value first, saying that the smaller size alongside the 46% price jump would leave buyers paying nearly 60% more per ounce. The same person also calculated that the old version was about 29% protein by weight versus roughly 25% for the new one, which they described as "roughly 12% less protein per gram."

Another user wrote, "Not my beloved Tofurky slices, which were already way too costly."

Several commenters argued the slices were overpriced even before the updated package appeared. One wrote, "That was already insane at $6.49, holy sh*t. I say that as a vegetarian who regularly buys/eats plant based meat substitutes. That's ridiculous."

Not everyone objected to every change. One commenter said, "I do appreciate that they look like they'd be easier to peel apart. And in a resealable bag." Still, that same person concluded, "That solves two of my main pain points with them. Not worth $3 to replace my ziploc bag solution though."

Packaging changes can create the impression of an upgrade even when shoppers are getting less for their money. This branding can also obscure a drop in protein density while the per-ounce cost rises.

One commenter captured that frustration in a short verdict, adding, "Bigger box, less food, more plastic. Impressive."

Where can I learn more?

Complaints like this often flare up when companies raise prices, shrink packages, or change how they market food. 

• New research suggests shoppers tolerate shrinkflation before lower quality when companies raise prices.

• UN investigators say seafood fraud happens in plain sight, including mislabeled products at supermarkets.

• Food companies are testing alternatives to plastic as packaging waste draws more scrutiny.

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