Recent reports have highlighted a growing dispute between McCormick & Company and Watkins Inc. over the amount of pepper contained in McCormick’s well-known tins. Some consumers and competitors claim the quantity has dropped from about 8 ounces to roughly 6 ounces. Watkins has openly questioned the change, suggesting McCormick’s updated packaging might make the tins appear fuller than they are. McCormick, however, insists that every container is clearly labeled with the correct weight and fully complies with regulations.
Much of the debate centers on the contrasting packaging styles of the two companies. McCormick uses opaque tins that preserve their classic look but hide the actual amount inside. Watkins, in contrast, sells pepper in smaller transparent containers, allowing shoppers to see the product directly. Watkins argues that when placed side-by-side, these visual differences may mislead consumers.
McCormick maintains that accurate labeling is what matters most and that customers can verify product weight at a glance. The controversy has sparked broader conversations among shoppers about packaging practices in the spice industry. Some consumers say they feel uncertain about how much product they’re getting when container size doesn’t match expectations. McCormick points to the clearly printed net weight as the key indicator of value.
Meanwhile, several customers have pursued legal action, and related cases are under review in federal court, with no final decisions yet. Ultimately, the situation underscores the importance of transparency in packaging. Clear information builds trust, and even small changes in design can shape how consumers perceive value and quality.