Halloween candy is shrinking even as prices continue to rise, leading to smaller portions for consumers this year. Several popular candy brands from companies including Mars Wrigley and Hershey have reduced the size of their party-sized bags in recent years, despite often maintaining or increasing their price points.

A review of several leading Halloween treats reveals significant decreases in candy volume since 2019, reflecting a trend known as shrinkflation. For example, Hershey's dark chocolate assortment has dropped from 29 ounces in 2019 to 23.9 ounces currently, while the price remains near $20. Similarly, Rolo's party pack has shrunk from 40 ounces to 35.6 ounces, with its retail cost rising from $8.98 to nearly $15.

Reese’s Miniatures party pack has seen a reduction of roughly 11%, declining from 40 ounces in 2019 to approximately 35.6 ounces today. Meanwhile, the price has increased from under $9 to about $13. M&M’s Milk Chocolate party size bags have also contracted, from 42 ounces to 38 ounces, while their price jumped by more than $4 during the same period. Hershey’s miniatures assortment party pack reported a similar pattern, shrinking over 10% in size but experiencing a 47% price increase at major retailers.

This shrinkage is occurring amid broader inflationary pressures on Halloween candy. According to recent data, the cost of Halloween candy has surged by 71% since 2021, outpacing the national inflation rate more than twofold. This increase is attributed to growing ingredient and manufacturing expenses in the confectionery industry as well as supply chain disruptions.

Consumers prepping for Halloween are therefore likely to encounter smaller candy portions for higher prices than in previous years. While manufacturers have maintained established price points or raised them, the actual quantity of candy offered has diminished—a trend that some have dubbed “shriekflation” in keeping with the season.

Retail workers and consumers alike have reported noticing the reduction in candy sizes, prompting scrutiny over value for money during the annual holiday. Industry representatives have attributed these changes to the need to balance rising input costs while continuing to provide products at competitive price levels.