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Consumer Watchdog Unveils Nominees for ‘Most Annoying Product’ of 2025

Vienna,Austria – september 3,2025 – The association for Consumer Information is once again tasking consumers with identifying the most frustrating products on the market. For 15 years, the organization has compiled reports based on consumer feedback regarding discrepancies and defects in food and other goods. This year’s nominations,announced today,spotlight issues ranging from misleading health claims to sneaky cost increases.

The Nominees for the 2025 ‘consumer Duck’ Award

The VKI’s annual “Consumer Duck” campaign invites the public to vote for a product they find notably irritating or deceptive. The five nominees for 2025, listed in alphabetical order, represent a diverse range of consumer grievances.

Asia Green Garden Mie Noodles: A Global Supply Chain

Thes noodles, sold at Hofer stores, boast international origins. While available locally, the wheat flour used in thier production originates from Australia, and the noodles themselves undergo final production in China. This complex supply chain raises questions about transparency and food miles.

Billa Vitamin Water Raspberry: A Sugary Disguise

Despite marketing itself as a healthy beverage, Billa Vitamin Water Raspberry contains a considerable amount of sugar – approximately seven sugar cubes per 0.5-liter bottle. This highlights the potential for misleading health claims in the beverage industry.

Eskimo Magnum: Shrinkflation in Action

Several varieties of Eskimo magnum ice cream bars have experienced a reduction in size-a 10-milliliter decrease-while together increasing in price by as much as 14 percent. this practice, known as ‘shrinkflation’, is a growing concern for consumers.

Mars Protein Bar: A Fitness Myth?

Marketed as a fitness snack, the Mars protein bar contains a significant amount of sugar (18 grams) and calories (around 190 per bar). Perhaps more notably, it’s approximately 80 percent more expensive than the original Mars bar. Consumers should be wary of such claims.

Nöm Cremix Pistachie: Flavor Illusion

The Nöm Cremix Pistachie product implies a generous pistachio content.Though, each cup contains the equivalent of only two pistachios, relying rather on coloring and artificial flavoring to create the illusion of a richer pistachio experience.

Past ‘Consumer Duck’ Winners

Previous winners of this annual award include Kotányi Grill Vegetables Spice Mixing (2024 – “Mogelpack”), Paw Patrol -Wasser (2023 – bottling in Greece), Rama Margarine (2022 – Shrinkflation), and Dr. Oetker Kuchendekor (2021 – Titanzixide insulation). These past selections underscore a pattern of consumer dissatisfaction with deceptive marketing and product changes.

Year Winner Reason
2024 Kotányi Grill Vegetables Spice Mixing Misleading Packaging (“Mogelpack”)
2023 Paw Patrol -Wasser Bottled in Greece despite local perception
2022 Rama Margarine Shrinkflation
2021 Dr. Oetker Kuchendekor Use of Titanzixide Insulation

Did You Know? Shrinkflation has been on the rise globally, with manufacturers reducing product sizes while maintaining or increasing prices to combat rising ingredient and production costs. A recent study by the Office for National Statistics in the UK revealed a noticeable trend in this practice across several food categories.

Pro Tip: Always compare unit prices (price per ounce, gram, or liter) when shopping to identify true value, especially when considering products that may have undergone shrinkflation.

Voting for the 2025 “Consumer Duck” is open from September 3rd to October 5th, 2025, at www.vki.at/ente2025.

Understanding Consumer Rights and Protection

Consumer protection organizations play a crucial role in holding companies accountable for misleading practices. Understanding your rights as a consumer-including the right to accurate information, fair pricing, and safe products-is essential. Staying informed about ongoing scams and deceptive marketing tactics can help you make more informed purchasing decisions. Resources like the Federal Trade Commission (www.ftc.gov) provide valuable information and tools for consumers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Consumer Protection

  • What is ‘shrinkflation’? Shrinkflation is when a product’s size or quantity is reduced while its price remains the same or increases.
  • Where can I find more information about consumer rights? Numerous organizations, including government agencies and non-profits, offer resources on consumer rights.
  • how can I report a misleading product? You can report misleading products to consumer protection agencies or the company directly.
  • What is the role of consumer watchdog groups? Consumer watchdog groups monitor products and practices, advocating for consumer rights and providing information to the public.
  • Is misleading advertising illegal? Yes, misleading advertising is generally illegal and can result in penalties for companies.

What do you think is the most frustrating practice companies employ to increase profits? Share your thoughts in the comments below and don’t forget to share this article with your friends!

What specific consumer issues will the VKI candidate questionnaires prioritize?

Empowering Consumers: VKI Launches 2025 Voting Initiative

Understanding the 2025 Consumer Rights Landscape

The Austrian consumer protection organization, VKI (Verein für Konsumenteninformation), has announced a significant initiative for 2025 focused on empowering consumers through informed voting. This initiative comes at a crucial time, as consumer rights face evolving challenges in areas like digital services, sustainability, and financial products. The VKI’s efforts aim to equip citizens with the knowledge needed to advocate for policies that protect their interests. This year’s focus is particularly relevant given the increasing complexity of the modern marketplace and the growing need for robust consumer advocacy.

Key Pillars of the VKI’s 2025 Voting Initiative

The VKI’s initiative isn’t simply about encouraging people to vote; it’s about fostering informed voting. Here’s a breakdown of the core components:

Candidate Questionnaires: VKI is sending detailed questionnaires to candidates across all major political parties, focusing on their stances on key consumer issues. Thes include:

Digital Consumer Rights: Data privacy, online contract openness, and the right to repair.

Sustainable Consumption: Policies promoting eco-amiable products, reducing waste, and combating greenwashing.

Financial Protection: Fair lending practices, clear banking fees, and protection against predatory financial schemes.

Energy costs & Consumer Protection: Addressing rising energy prices and ensuring fair treatment for consumers.

Voter Guides: Based on the candidate responses, VKI will publish complete, non-partisan voter guides available online and in print. These guides will clearly outline each candidate’s position on critical consumer issues, allowing voters to make informed decisions. Expect these guides to be available in multiple formats for accessibility.

Educational Workshops & Webinars: Throughout the election period, VKI will host workshops and webinars covering topics like understanding consumer law, identifying misleading advertising, and navigating digital marketplaces. These resources will be free and open to the public.

Online Resource Hub: A dedicated section on the VKI website (https://vki.at/) will serve as a central hub for all initiative-related materials, including candidate responses, voter guides, and educational resources. This hub will also feature a consumer rights glossary and FAQs.

Why This Initiative Matters: The Growing Need for Consumer Protection

The need for strong consumer protection is more pressing than ever. Several factors contribute to this:

  1. The Rise of Digital Services: The increasing reliance on online platforms and digital services introduces new risks for consumers, including data breaches, subscription traps, and unfair contract terms. Online shopping safety is a major concern.
  2. Sustainability Concerns: consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable products and practices, but are frequently enough misled by “greenwashing” – deceptive marketing that exaggerates a product’s environmental benefits.
  3. financial Vulnerability: Economic uncertainty and rising inflation make consumers more vulnerable to predatory lending practices and financial scams. Financial literacy is crucial.
  4. Complexity of Regulations: Consumer laws can be complex and difficult to understand, leaving many consumers unaware of their rights.

VKI’s Historical Impact on Consumer Rights in Austria

The VKI has a long and accomplished history of advocating for consumer rights in Austria. Some notable achievements include:

Landmark Legal Cases: VKI has successfully challenged unfair contract terms in court, setting precedents that protect consumers nationwide.

Influencing Legislation: The organization has actively lobbied for stronger consumer protection laws, contributing to significant improvements in areas like product safety and data privacy.

Raising Public Awareness: Through its publications, media appearances, and educational programs, VKI has consistently raised public awareness about consumer rights and responsibilities.

Independent Testing & Reporting: VKI conducts independent testing of products and services, providing consumers with unbiased information to make informed purchasing decisions. This includes product testing reports on everything from household appliances to financial products.

How Consumers Can Get Involved

The VKI encourages all Austrian citizens to participate in the 2025 Voting Initiative:

Review Candidate responses: Carefully examine the responses provided by candidates to the VKI’s questionnaires.

Utilize Voter Guides: use the VKI’s voter guides to compare candidates’ positions on consumer issues.

Attend Workshops & Webinars: Participate in VKI’s educational events to learn more about consumer rights.

Share Information: Spread the word about the initiative to friends, family, and colleagues.

Become a VKI Member: support the VKI’s work by becoming a member. Membership provides access to exclusive benefits, including legal advice and discounted product testing.

Resources for Further Information

VKI Website: https://vki.at/

Austrian Federal Ministry for Digital and Economic Affairs: https://www.bmeia.at/en/ (for information on relevant legislation)

European Consumer Centre Austria: https://www.ecc.at/en/ (for cross-border consumer disputes

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Maple Leafs Prioritize Player Safety After Reported Threat to Marner

Detroit, MI – Toronto Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving addressed concerns regarding player safety on Tuesday, following revelations that Mitch Marner and his family experienced a disturbing incident after the team’s elimination from the 2025 Stanley cup Playoffs. The incident involved a leaked home address posted on social media,accompanied by menacing messages.

Addressing a Growing Concern

Treliving emphasized that the well-being of his players remains the organization’s paramount priority. “In our business, looking after our players is Number One, and I believe we excel at that,” treliving stated prior to the annual NHL General Managers and Coaches meetings in Detroit. He further acknowledged the increasing challenges posed by social media, where a minority of individuals cross the line with harmful and threatening behavior.

According to reports, Marner was informed by his father-in-law immediately after the Game-7 loss to the Florida Panthers that his home address had been circulated online, along with explicit threats. Marner, who has deep roots in Toronto, expressed his dismay at the situation, particularly given the recent arrival of his son.He deemed the threat to his family’s safety unacceptable.

Team Response and Security Measures

The Maple Leafs’ security team swiftly intervened, successfully removing the threatening posts from social media platforms. Marner’s agent, Darren Ferris, revealed that a previous incident involving a death threat was traced to an individual in Oakville, leading to police intervention. Ferris stressed the importance of taking all such threats seriously, recognizing the potential consequences of dismissing them as mere online bravado.

Treliving confirmed that the team routinely addresses player safety protocols, ensuring players are aware of the available resources and the support network in place. He highlighted the proactive approach, with dedicated personnel available to assist players whenever they feel vulnerable or require assistance. The team’s commitment extends to providing complete security measures for players and their families.

The Changing Landscape of Player Safety

The incident underscores a growing trend in professional sports, where athletes and their families are increasingly targeted by online harassment and threats. According to a 2024 study by the Sports Fan Behavior Institute, online abuse towards athletes increased by 45% in the past year, with a significant portion involving threats of violence.This highlights the urgent need for enhanced security measures and proactive intervention strategies.

Looking Ahead: Roster Changes and Team Identity

Beyond player safety, Treliving also provided updates on the team’s evolving roster. He acknowledged recent changes, including the departure of Mitch Marner and the addition of players like Matias Maccelli, Dakota Joshua, and Nicolas Roy. He expressed confidence in the coaching staff’s ability to cultivate a new team identity focused on defensive resilience and a more aggressive forecheck.

“We’ve had some turnover, but we’re excited about the group we’ve got,” Treliving said. “Training camp is the time to build the team and find chemistry.We’ll see how things develop, but we’re confident in our players and our direction.”

Player Status Notes
Mitch Marner Traded Now with the Vegas Golden knights
Matias Maccelli Acquired Forward, expected to contribute offensively
Dakota Joshua Acquired Physical forward, adds toughness
Nicolas Roy Acquired versatile player, contributes defensively

The Rising Importance of athlete Security

The case involving Mitch Marner is not isolated. Professional athletes are increasingly becoming targets of online harassment and real-world threats. According to the NCAA, in 2023, there was a 68% increase in reported threats toward student athletes. This necessitates a comprehensive approach to security, including enhanced social media monitoring, improved cybersecurity measures, and closer collaboration between teams, leagues, and law enforcement agencies.

furthermore, mental health support for athletes is crucial. Experiencing threats and harassment can have a significant psychological impact, and providing access to counseling and other mental health resources is essential.


What are your thoughts on increasing security measures for athletes? Do you believe social media companies should be held accountable for the content posted on their platforms?

How does the Maple Leafs institution balance providing robust security measures with respecting players’ and their families’ privacy?

Maple Leafs Prioritize Player Safety and Security in Their Commitment to Family Responsibility and Content Creation

Player Wellbeing: A Holistic Approach

The Toronto Maple Leafs organization has increasingly focused on a comprehensive player wellbeing programme extending beyond on-ice performance. This commitment encompasses not only physical health and injury prevention but also mental wellness, financial security, and crucially, the safety and support of players’ families. This holistic view recognizes that a player’s success is inextricably linked to a stable and secure personal life. Key components of this initiative include dedicated resources for mental health support, financial planning workshops, and robust security protocols.

enhanced Security Measures for Players and Families

In today’s world, the increased visibility of professional athletes and their families necessitates heightened security measures. The Maple Leafs have proactively invested in several areas:

Home Security Systems: Providing state-of-the-art home security systems for players and their families, including alarm monitoring, surveillance cameras, and secure access control.

Personal Security Details: Offering personal security details, particularly during travel and public appearances, based on individual risk assessments. This is especially relevant for players with high public profiles.

Cybersecurity Training: Implementing mandatory cybersecurity training for players and family members to protect against online threats like phishing,identity theft,and social media hacking.

Threat Assessment & Management: Collaborating with security experts to conduct threat assessments and develop proactive management strategies to mitigate potential risks.

travel Security Protocols: Establishing detailed travel security protocols, including secure transportation, vetted accommodations, and communication plans.

Family Responsibility Programs: Supporting Loved Ones

recognizing the sacrifices families make to support a player’s career, the Maple Leafs offer a range of programs designed to ease the burden and foster a supportive surroundings. These programs aim to integrate families into the hockey community and provide resources for their unique needs.

Family Relocation assistance: comprehensive assistance with relocation, including housing, schooling, and community integration.

Spousal/partner Career Support: Resources and networking opportunities to help spouses/partners pursue their own career goals. This includes resume workshops, job search assistance, and connections to local employers.

Educational Support: Access to educational resources for children, including tutoring, college planning, and scholarship opportunities.

Family Counseling Services: Confidential counseling services for families dealing with the stresses of a professional hockey lifestyle.

Social Events & Community building: Regularly organized social events and community initiatives to foster a sense of belonging and connection among players’ families.

Content creation support: Empowering Player Voices

The Maple leafs understand the importance of players controlling their own narratives and engaging with fans authentically. Rather than simply dictating messaging, the organization provides resources and support for players to create compelling content. This isn’t about acting as a “virtual assistant” but empowering players to connect with their communities.

Professional Videography & Editing: Access to professional videographers and editors to produce high-quality video content for social media and other platforms.

Social Media Strategy Guidance: Guidance on developing effective social media strategies, including content planning, audience engagement, and brand management.

Media Training: Comprehensive media training to help players confidently navigate interviews and public appearances.

Content Creation Workshops: Workshops focused on storytelling, photography, and video production techniques.

Platform Management Tools: providing access to platform management tools to streamline content scheduling and analytics.

Real-World Example: The NHLPA Player Assistance Program

While specific details of the Maple Leafs’ internal programs are confidential, the NHLPA Player Assistance Program serves as a strong example of league-wide commitment to player wellbeing. This program provides confidential support for players and their families dealing with a range of issues, including mental health, substance abuse, and financial difficulties. The Maple Leafs actively encourage players to utilize these resources.

Benefits of Prioritizing Safety and Family

Investing in player safety and family support yields meaningful benefits for the organization:

Improved Player Performance: reduced stress and increased peace of mind allow players to focus on their performance on the ice.

Enhanced team Cohesion: A supportive team environment fosters stronger relationships and improved teamwork.

Positive Public Image: Demonstrating a commitment to player wellbeing enhances the organization’s reputation and strengthens its connection with fans.

* Increased Player loyalty: Players are more likely to remain with an organization

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