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German court finds Milka Alpenmilch shrinkflation deceived consumers
A Bremen court ruled that Mondelēz deceived consumers by shrinking the Milka Alpenmilch bar from 100g to 90g while using the same wrapper. The ruling requires a clear wrapper notice to prevent deception and notes the case could be repeated; Mondelēz may appeal within a month. The case follows earlier shrinkflation and packaging controversy in Germany.
Why It Matters
Sets a legal precedent in Germany on how shrinkflation is treated under consumer protection and competition law, potentially encouraging clearer packaging disclosures.
Timeline
3 Events
Bremen court rules on deception in Milka shrinkflation
May 13, 2026
The Bremen regional court ruled that reducing the Milka Alpenmilch bar’s weight from 100g to 90g while keeping the same wrapper constitutes deception by failing to align contents with consumer expectations. The court said a clear, understandable notice on the wrapper is necessary to eliminate the deception and warned of the risk of repetition. The verdict is not yet legally binding, as Mondelēz may appeal within a month.
German consumers vote Milka Alpenmilch packaging as 'rip-off packaging of the year 2025'
2025
In 2025, German consumers voted the Milka Alpenmilch bar 'rip-off packaging of the year 2025', reflecting discontent with shrinkflation, while the packaging’s visual appearance remained largely unchanged.
Milka Alpenmilch weight reduced and price raised at start of 2025
January 2025
Mondelēz reduced the Alpenmilch bar's weight from 100g to 90g at the start of 2025, while keeping the purple wrapper unchanged. The price rose from €1.49 to €1.99 in early 2025, and the bar was reported to be millimeter thinner.