What we're seeing in the U.S., including higher prices, smaller sizes and less cocoa in some products, reflects longer-term adjustments. Prices are likely to stay high through 2026 and could climb further if supply expectations don't hold.
A 12-fluid ounce container of Whole Foods' Grade A amber syrup will cost a little over $9, but buyers are thrilled with the purchase. "Absolutely love this organic maple syrup! The flavor is rich, natural, and perfectly sweet without being overpowering. It's great on pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, and even in baking," wrote one customer. "Definitely a pantry staple now - I'll be buying this again and again! Great value!"
On the one hand, people clearly love them: about 31m dishes were sold in the past year alone. On the other hand, they generate a heap of mockery. The critique seems to be that only a gullible idiot would shell out up to a tenner on an oven-ready fish pie, chilli con carne or as one commentator once memorably labelled it a tray of Tory slop.