The Consumer Council today (March 27) released its weekly price survey on a basket of 45 food and household items available at major supermarket chains and other retail outlets in Yuen Long.
In the analysis were listed the top 10 products with the most price differences found in this survey. Top on the list was: Saltine Soda Cracker 100g (from HK$4 to HK$7, or a price difference of 75%).
Following closely (between 72.7% and 60.6%) were: Fabric Softener (Natural) 1L (HK$15 to HK$25.9, or 72.7%); Expectorant 100ml (HK$30 to HK$50.8, or 69.3%); Tuna in Spring Water 185g (HK$11 to HK$17.9, or 62.7%); Pure Milk 1L (HK$9.9 to HK$15.9 or 60.6%).
The remainders 5 of the top 10 list (ranging from 53.8% to 42%) were: Yin Qiao Jie Du Pian (Sugar Coated) 50 tablets (HK$13 to HK$20, or 53.8%); Baby Messy Times Wipes 20's (HK$5.9 to HK$8.9, or 50.8%); Lee Man Shan Pills 35's (HK$8 to HK$12, or 50%); Black Rice Vinegar 500ml (HK$14 to HK$19.9, or 42.1%); Liquid Toilet Cleaner (Fresh) 750ml (HK$10 to HK$14.2, or 42%).
Other highlights in this weekly price survey covering (a) prepackaged food products, and (b) household and personal care products:
Prepackaged Food
- A total of 18 items in this category at 15 retail outlets in Yuen Long were compared for their prices.
- Considerable differences between the lowest and the highest unit prices were recorded, ranging from 7.8% to 75%.
Household / Personal Care Products
- A total of 22 items in this category at 15 retail outlets were surveyed, with price differences ranging from 16% to 72.7%.
- Overall, more highest unit prices were recorded at major supermarket and health-and-beauty chains than other retail outlets.
Fresh Produce
- Due to possible variations in the place of origin, quality, size or freshness of fresh produce, direct price comparison is considered not suitable.
- A total of 5 items from 2 to 4 stalls at the Tung Yick Market and 2 major supermarket chains were included in the survey for reference of consumers.
The weekly survey covers, for price comparison, a broad range of retail outlets of different types located in the district under comparison, including major and individual supermarkets, health-and-beauty chains, frozen food and grocery stores, and drugstores.
It is common that many outlets will offer bulk-purchase incentives, add-size packs, gifts, rebates, etc. for purchase of designated products or up to a certain value.
Consumers, however, should note that promotional offers are not necessarily the best bargains (the lowest unit price) available on the items. They should shop around whenever possible and compare prices.
Results of the weekly price survey and analysis are available on the Council's website, its Consumer Advice Centres, and the Public Enquiry Service Centre of Yuen Long District Office.