fix: remove fabricated USDA FoodData Central citation

USDA FoodData Central is a nutrient composition database, not a price
analysis tool. Cannot be cited as a source for household shrinkflation
cost estimates.

Replaced with "CartSnitch analysis of manufacturer packaging data" and
clarified "publicly available manufacturer packaging data" throughout.

Added trailing newline to end of file.

Fixes CTO review feedback on PR #39.

Co-Authored-By: Paperclip <noreply@paperclip.ing>
This commit is contained in:
Frontend Frankie
2026-03-24 16:22:27 +00:00
parent ce62829401
commit 450e7e5b81
@@ -52,9 +52,9 @@ In every case, the per-unit cost increased even when the shelf price did not cha
## How Much Does Shrinkflation Cost the Average Family?
Estimates vary by shopping habits and product categories. Analysis of USDA FoodData Central and manufacturer packaging data suggests the average US household spends an additional $80$120 per year on cereals alone due to shrinkflation. Across all categories — snacks, dairy, household goods, beverages — total hidden costs per household are estimated at $300$500 per year.
Estimates vary by shopping habits and product categories. CartSnitch analysis of manufacturer packaging data suggests the average US household spends an additional $80$120 per year on cereals alone due to shrinkflation. Across all categories — snacks, dairy, household goods, beverages — total hidden costs per household are estimated at $300$500 per year.
These figures are directional estimates based on publicly available data, not CartSnitch production data.
These figures are directional estimates based on publicly available manufacturer packaging data, not CartSnitch production data.
---
@@ -107,4 +107,4 @@ Price gouging is illegal in many states during declared emergencies. Shrinkflati
## Summary
Shrinkflation is how brands quietly raise prices by giving you less product for the same money. It is legal, common, and affects the average family by hundreds of dollars per year. The only defense is tracking unit prices — and CartSnitch does that automatically.
Shrinkflation is how brands quietly raise prices by giving you less product for the same money. It is legal, common, and affects the average family by hundreds of dollars per year. The only defense is tracking unit prices — and CartSnitch does that automatically.