Shoppers have recently discovered that the “E” symbol on meat packaging stands for “estimated” weight, and it has sparked outrage.
This revelation has left many consumers feeling misled, especially during a time when people are more cautious about their spending due to the rising cost-of-living crisis.
How did this discovery come to light?’
On social media, a member of the popular Facebook group Extreme Couponing and Bargains UK shared her experience and sparked questions about the discrepancy between the labeled weight and the actual weight.
The post read: “NOT a coupon or bargain but maybe something to think about… are we getting what we pay for?”
After purchasing a 500g packet of lean beef steak mince, she found the actual weight was only 456g.
The discrepancy between the labeled and actual weight led her to question if consumers were getting what they paid for.
Why is this ‘e’ symbol causing outrage?
The shopper’s post quickly went viral, with many people realizing that the “E” on the packaging refers to “estimated” weight.
While the “E” symbol is meant to indicate an average weight, it’s not supposed to fall below a specific percentage of the stated amount. In this case, the nearly 10% shortfall in weight left shoppers feeling deceived.
Social media reaction
The post quickly went viral and sparked debate among viewers.
Some social media users compared the meat packaging discrepancy to other products.
One commenter asked, “Would you be okay if you bought a variety bag of crisps and only received 5 packs instead of 6?”
Others pointed out that small discrepancies across many products could result in companies making significant profits from underweight items.
While another said that the ”E” on the plastic packaging stands for ”estimated”, leaving some furious.
One person said: Bet the actual weight is always lower than the label weight, not higher.
A second wrote: Imagine she finds out what it weighs after cooking
While a third commented: Always support my local butcher sometimes it’s a little bit dearer but I know it’s meat and I’m paying for what I ask no short cuts. Terrible supermarkets so so greedy.
Another added: That is why l prefer to go to a local butchers.
Someone else said: That is why l prefer to go to a local butchers.
What are consumers suggesting in response?
In light of the discovery, some consumers have suggested buying meat from local butchers, where products are weighed in front of customers.
Others recommended buying fresh, local, and bulk items, then freezing them at home to avoid the issue altogether.
One shopper expressed frustration, stating, “Get it right. I’m paying for 500g, so give me 500g.”
The “E” symbol on meat packaging has caused confusion and anger among shoppers. Many now feel that they are not receiving the full value of what they pay for.
While the symbol is intended to represent estimated weight, the significant shortfall in some cases has left consumers questioning the fairness of the practice.