ConsumerAffairs News

Coffee can’t fix drowsy driving, survey finds

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:14:19 +0000

New research highlights how often tired drivers struggle to stay safe behind the wheel

October 21, 2026

Four in 10 adults reported unsafe sleepiness: 41% said they had felt so tired while driving that it affected their ability to drive safely.
Men reported the experience more often: Half of male respondents said they had experienced this level of drowsiness, compared with 33% of female respondents.
Middle-aged adults reported the highest rates: Adults ages 35 to 44 were the most likely to report driving while dangerously sleepy.

Grabbing a cup of coffee before getting behind the wheel might seem like a simple way to stay alert. But caffeine isn't a replacement for getting enough sleep, and driving while exhausted can put both drivers and others on the road at risk.

A new survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) highlights just how common this experience is. According to the organization's findings, 41% of U.S. adults have felt so sleepy while driving that it affected their ability to drive safely.

The results serve as a reminder that fatigue deserves the same serious attention as other factors that can interfere with safe driving. Rather than relying on coffee to push through tiredness, drivers should recognize when they aren't alert enough to be on the road.

Drowsy driving puts everyone on the road at risk, AASM President Dr. Fariha Abbasi-Feinberg, said in a news release. Its important to recognize the warning signs that you are too tired to drive. If you are yawning, drifting into other lanes, or nodding off, its time to pull over to get some sleep.

How the survey was conducted

The AASM commissioned an online survey of 2,007 adults across the United States. Independent market research agency Atomik Research conducted the survey between June 5 and June 13, 2025.

Participants were asked a straightforward question: Had they ever felt so sleepy while driving that it affected their ability to drive safely?

Researchers collected responses from different age groups and genders to examine how experiences with drowsy driving varied among participants.

The survey's reported margin of error was plus or minus two percentage points, with a 95% confidence level. That means the overall findings have a degree of statistical uncertainty, and the results represent respondents' reported experiences rather than a direct measurement of driving behavior.

What the results mean for drivers

The survey found that 41% of respondents had experienced unsafe sleepiness while driving, while 59% said they had not. The results also showed differences across demographic groups.

Men were more likely than women to report the experience, at 50% versus 33%. Adults ages 35 to 44 reported the highest rate, at 47%, followed by those ages 45 to 54 at 46%. Among adults 65 and older, 28% reported having experienced it.

These findings don't establish why the groups differed, but they underscore that drowsy driving is not limited to one age group or type of driver.

For consumers, the practical takeaway is simple: Don't assume coffee can make you safe to drive when you're exhausted. If you're struggling to stay awake, the safer choice is to avoid driving until you're rested enough to do so safely.

A caffeine boost may make you feel more alert temporarily, but it shouldn't be treated as a substitute for sleep. Recognizing your limits before starting a trip can help you make safer decisions for yourself and everyone sharing the road.

Drowsy driving isnt limited to nodding off behind the wheel, said Jake Nelson, director of Traffic Safety Advocacy and Research at AAA. Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has found that driving after getting only four hours of sleep is associated with a crash risk comparable to driving with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08.

Coffee, fresh air, or a loud radio may make you feel more alert temporarily, but they cannot replace sleep. If you become drowsy on the road, a 20- to 30-minute nap can help restore alertness for up to two hours. Before getting behind the wheel, ask yourself whether youre truly rested enough to drive safely.

Popular diabetes drug may help protect the heart by reducing inflammation

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:13:00 +0000

A small human trial found changes in immune cells that could help explain the medications potential cardiovascular benefits

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

A small study found that empagliflozin, a diabetes medication, reduced certain inflammatory cell clusters in the blood.
The changes appeared within two weeks and became more pronounced after three months of treatment.
Researchers say the findings could help explain how the drug may benefit heart health beyond its effects on blood sugar and weight.

A popular diabetes medication may offer another potential benefit: reducing inflammation linked to cardiovascular disease.

In a human trial, researchers found that empagliflozin, part of a class of drugs called SGLT2 inhibitors, reduced certain combinations of immune and blood-clotting cells associated with inflammation in blood vessels.

Inflammation is part of the body's normal defense system, but when it persists or affects blood vessels, it can contribute to cardiovascular problems. Understanding how medications influence this process could help researchers learn more about their potential heart-protective effects.

The findings, published in the journal Circulation, provide early evidence that empagliflozin may affect the immune system in ways that go beyond its established blood sugar-lowering effects.

There had been some suggestive studies in animals with these medications indicating they might be modulating the immune system affecting inflammation but that hadnt really been shown in humans, Mona Mashayekhi, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Medicine in the Division of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism at Vanderbilt Health, said in a news release. This study provides the first direct evidence of SGLT2 inhibitors altering human immune cells which may potentially reduce cardiovascular risk.

This finding is significant because its the first time this medication has been shown to have an immune effect at the cellular level with some specificity. If we understand how these medicines are reducing obesity-associated inflammation and heart disease and kidney disease, then we can identify the best patient for this treatment or discover other drug targets in that pathway that could really be beneficial.

How the study was conducted

The research team, led by investigators at Vanderbilt Health, enrolled 16 women with obesity and prediabetes. Participants took empagliflozin for three months, with researchers measuring changes in their blood before treatment, after two weeks, and after 12 weeks.

The team also examined a comparison group of women who followed a low-calorie diet for three months. This allowed researchers to explore whether changes in inflammation might be related to the medication itself rather than weight loss alone.

Using genetic sequencing and cellular imaging, researchers looked closely at immune cells and their interactions with other blood cells. One focus was monocyte-platelet aggregates, or MPAs. These form when monocytes, a type of immune cell, attach to platelets, which help blood clot. These cell clusters are associated with inflammation in blood vessels and cardiovascular disease.

What the results could mean for consumers

Women who took empagliflozin experienced a significant reduction in MPAs within two weeks, and the decrease was even greater after 12 weeks. The researchers did not observe the same reduction in the comparison group following a low-calorie diet.

The team also found that the participants' monocytes shifted away from a highly inflammatory state toward a more stable pattern of cellular energy use. Together, these findings suggest the medication may influence inflammation through changes in immune cells, rather than simply through weight loss.

However, the study was small and included only women with obesity and prediabetes. It does not establish that taking empagliflozin will prevent heart attacks or other cardiovascular events. More research is needed to understand how these cellular changes translate into meaningful health benefits.

Researchers at Vanderbilt have begun a larger, randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 74 people with obesity and metabolic syndrome. That study will investigate these immune changes further and examine fat tissue to better understand inflammation.

For consumers, the findings offer a promising new direction for research, but they are not a reason to start or change medication without consulting a healthcare professional.

Walmart+, Sam’s Club announce combined membership for $120 per year

Kristen Dalli — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 16:11:40 +0000

The new deal gives shoppers delivery perks, gas discounts, and streaming options for one annual fee

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Walmart is offering Walmart+ and Sams Club Plus together for $120 per year, nearly $100 less than buying both memberships separately.
The bundle includes delivery benefits, gas savings, select streaming access, and rewards on eligible Sams Club purchases.
Existing members can upgrade or link their accounts to access the offer, with different options depending on their current membership.

Between grocery runs, household essentials, gas, and entertainment, keeping up with everyday expenses can add up. Now, Walmart is giving shoppers a new option for combining several shopping and lifestyle perks under one membership.

Walmart announced a $120 annual offer, bringing together Walmart+ and Sams Club Plus. The company says the combined price saves customers nearly $100 a year compared with paying for both memberships separately.

At $10 a month, the package is designed to help shoppers save on purchases while making everyday errands more convenient. Whether customers shop for weekly groceries or stock up on household supplies in bulk, the two memberships offer different ways to access savings.

Were giving people a reason to expect more from their memberships, John Furner, president and CEO, Walmart Inc, said in a news release. For $120 a year, were raising expectations for what a membership can deliver: more money in their pockets and more time to call their own.

What comes with the $120 membership?

The combined membership includes access to Sams Club and its member-only prices on brand-name products and Members Mark items. Members also get delivery benefits from both Walmart and Sams Club, subject to order minimums and availability.

The package includes a choice of one ad-supported streaming service: Peacock Premium or Paramount+ Essential. Members can change their selection every 90 days, with additional registration required.

Other benefits include gas discounts of up to 10 cents per gallon at more than 17,000 participating stations and 2% Sams Cash on eligible Sams Club purchases. The rewards program has a maximum annual earning limit of $750, and restrictions apply.

Customers who already belong to one of the programs have several ways to access the deal:

Walmart+ annual members can switch to the combined membership for an additional $22 per year.
Sams Club members can upgrade to Sams Club Plus for $60 more annually, with Walmart+ included.
Sams Club Plus members can activate Walmart+ at no additional cost.
Customers paying for both memberships can link their accounts, and most are eligible for a prorated Walmart+ refund.

What this means for shoppers

For consumers who regularly use both retailers, the offer could be a way to cut membership costs without giving up familiar benefits. Combining delivery, warehouse shopping, gas discounts, and streaming access may also make it easier to get more value from one annual fee.

However, the savings will depend on how often shoppers use the included services. People who rarely shop at Sams Club or don't need delivery may not get as much value from the package as households that use both stores regularly.

Customers can join, upgrade, or link their accounts through the Walmart or Sams Club apps or online at Walmarts membership website. Before signing up, shoppers should review the applicable terms, delivery minimums, and benefit restrictions to make sure the bundle fits their needs.

Shop all you want, spend absolutely nothing: The new fake shopping trend

Kyle James — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 15:43:32 +0000

New sites recreate the thrill of shopping and ordering takeout without charging a penny. Could they help you save money?

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Shop without spending: Fill your cart, check out, and even track imaginary deliveries without buying anything.
Try it for free: Sites like FakeHaul and FoodNeverComes recreate online shopping and ordering takeout.
Turn pretend purchases into savings: Delay impulse buys and put the money you would have spent into savings.

Do you love online shopping but hate seeing the credit card bill that follows? There's a new trend that might be right up your alley.

Websites known as "dopamine sites" let people browse products, fill shopping carts, check out, and even track deliveries.

The catch? Nothing actually gets purchased or delivered to your home.

As TODAY recently reported, these simulated shopping experiences are attracting attention as a way to enjoy shopping without the financial consequences.

And if you occasionally shop out of boredom or to fill a void, they might be worth trying.

How does fake shopping work?

The trend gained traction in South Korea, where developers created websites mimicking online shopping and food delivery apps. You browse products, compare prices, fill your cart, and complete an imaginary checkout.

Some even let you track a pretend delivery, just like Amazon or DoorDash. But there's no charge, no package, and definitely no buyer's remorse.

The idea? Sometimes we enjoy the anticipation of shopping more than actually owning the stuff. And for some, the dopamine hit you get when ordering something is real even if youll never actually get the item.

Here are three fake shopping websites worth trying:

1. FakeHaul Best for online shopping

Think Temu or Amazon, except your checkout total is always $0. FakeHaul lets you browse fictional products, hunt for deals, compare prices, and fill your cart.

You can even complete checkout without entering a credit card number or shipping address.

Creator Jack Yang wanted to explore whether people could enjoy shopping without the financial consequences.

2. FoodNeverComes Best for takeout cravings

Constantly tempted to order DoorDash or Uber Eats? This one's interesting.

FoodNeverComes lets you browse imaginary restaurants, choose meals, customize orders, and complete a fake checkout.

You can even watch a pretend delivery driver head toward your home. No food arrives, and no money changes hands.

3. NoBuyCart Best for tracking imaginary spending

Check out NoBuyCart and browse fictional products and fill your shopping cart without actually buying anything.

The interesting feature is its focus on showing how much you almost spent. That could help shoppers become more aware of their impulse-buying habits.

4 ways to turn fake shopping into actual savings

Instead of treating these websites as entertainment, try using them to change your spending habits.

Use the 24-hour rule. Tempted to make an unnecessary purchase? Visit one of these websites instead, then wait 24 hours before buying the real item. The urge might disappear.
Track what you didn't spend. If you skip a $65 impulse purchase, write it down. At month's end, add up the purchases you genuinely avoided. Just be sure to keep in mind that imaginary shopping totals aren't automatically real savings.
Transfer the money instead. Skip a $40 purchase you could afford? Move that $40 into savings. Now you've turned an avoided purchase into actual money saved that you can use to fund an emergency fund or retirement account.
Make real shopping less convenient. Remove any saved credit cards from shopping websites and turn off promotional notifications. By creating some extra steps, it gives you more time to reconsider the purchase.

But do these sites actually work?

That's still an open question. While simulated shopping might help some people resist impulse purchases, it could have the opposite effect on others.

Stanford addiction specialist Dr. Anna Lembke told Real Simple that shopping simulations can activate the brain's reward system, potentially increasing cravings.

In other words, pretending to shop might satisfy your urge to buy something, or make you want to shop even more. And of course, be cautious about privacy. A fake shopping site shouldn't need your real credit card information.

The bottom line: If you regularly browse Amazon, Target, or food delivery apps out of boredom, try fake shopping for a week.

Pay attention to whether it reduces your actual spending, and consider moving the money you don't spend into savings for the ultimate personal finance hack. Because the best shopping spree might be the one that costs you absolutely nothing.

CDC warns consumers about Salmonella outbreak linked to recalled oysters

Mark Huffman — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:47:37 +0000

The oysters were harvested from a Chesapeake Bay tributary in Virginia

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

The CDC is warning consumers not to eat recalled Little Wicomico Oyster Company oysters linked to a Salmonella outbreak.
The recall covers oysters harvested from two Virginia growing areas between September 18 and October 8, 2026.
Consumers should discard or return affected oysters and seek medical attention for severe symptoms.

Federal health officials are warning consumers about a Salmonella outbreak linked to raw oysters from Virginias Little Wicomico River, prompting a recall and a temporary closure of the affected harvesting area.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says illnesses associated with the oysters are part of a cluster of 27 Salmonella Telelkebir infections being investigated by federal and state authorities. The recalled oysters reached restaurants and retailers in 15 states and the District of Columbia, and may have been distributed further.

Little Wicomico Oyster Company voluntarily recalled the oysters on October 9 and notified customers. Virginia health officials said an investigation in Pennsylvania established an epidemiological association between illnesses and consumption of oysters from the affected areas.

Which oysters are affected?

The recall covers whole, in-shell oysters harvested from September 18 through October 8, 2026, from the Little Wicomico River and Little Wicomico River Lower growing areas in Virginia. The companys certification number is VA-1421-SP.

According to the FDA, distribution included California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

The company has stopped harvesting from the affected area and is cooperating with investigators. Oysters harvested from other Virginia growing areas are outside the recall. Contaminated food can look, smell, and taste normal, the FDA cautioned.

What consumers should do

The CDC advises consumers to throw away recalled oysters or return them. Items and surfaces that touched the oysters should be washed with hot, soapy water or cleaned in a dishwasher.

Restaurants and retailers should stop serving or selling them and clean and sanitize affected equipment and surfaces.

Salmonella commonly causes diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps. Symptoms generally begin six hours to six days after exposure, and most people recover without treatment within four to seven days. Children younger than 5, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems face greater risks of severe illness.

The CDC advises calling a healthcare provider promptly for bloody diarrhea, diarrhea lasting more than two days without improvement, diarrhea accompanied by a fever above 102F, or vomiting that prevents keeping liquids down. Signs of dehydration including little urination, a dry mouth, or dizziness when standing also warrant medical attention.

Compounded GLP-1 weight-loss drug recalled over sterility concerns

Mark Huffman — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:44:50 +0000

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Eli Lillys Mounjaro and Zepbound

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Apothecary Pharma is recalling compounded tirzepatide injections distributed nationwide because their sterility cannot be assured.
The recall covers specific lots of 18 mg/mL injections; brand-name Mounjaro and Zepbound are unaffected.
Patients should check their vial labels and contact their pharmacy or prescriber if their medication matches the recalled product.

Apothecary Pharma LLC of Cary, North Carolina, is recalling certain compounded tirzepatide injections because of a lack of assurance of sterility, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA classified it as Class II on October 8 and included it in its October 14 enforcement report. The agency lists the recalled quantity as 22 vials distributed nationwide.

A Class II designation means a product could cause temporary or medically reversible health problems, or that the likelihood of serious consequences is remote. A lack of sterility assurance does not establish that every affected vial contains contamination, but it raises concerns about whether an injectable medicine is safe to use.

Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Eli Lillys Mounjaro and Zepbound. Those FDA-approved medications are not included in this recall, which concerns a compounded preparation supplied by Apothecary Pharma.

How to identify the recalled medication

The affected product is labeled Tirzepatide Injection, 18 mg/mL, packaged in a 4 mL multidose vial, with National Drug Code 85091-001-18.

Recalled lot numbers run from AP-202622 through AP-202644, excluding AP-202626. Their beyond-use dates range from October 7 through November 26, 2026. These dates indicate how long the preparations were intended to be used, rather than when the recall began. The FDA lists the recall as ongoing.

Patients with an affected vial should stop using that vial and contact their dispensing pharmacy and prescribing clinician for instructions and an appropriate replacement. Those using the medication for diabetes should promptly arrange a treatment plan to avoid an unmanaged interruption in blood sugar control.

Earlier FDA concerns

The recall follows a December 1, 2025, FDA warning letter documenting problems found during an inspection of Apothecary Pharmas facility that May.

Inspectors described deficiencies in sterile production, including employees obstructing protective airflow over open containers, inadequate glove sanitation, and visibly rusty equipment or surfaces. The FDA said the practices put patients at risk.

The letter acknowledged corrective actions by the company but said some could not be fully evaluated without additional documentation.

What patients should know about compounded drugs

Compounded medications do not undergo the FDAs review for safety, effectiveness, and quality before being marketed. The agency recommends their use only when a patients medical needs cannot be met by an FDA-approved drug.

Consumers should obtain prescriptions from licensed clinicians and use state-licensed pharmacies. Questions about a compounded products label or instructions should go to the compounder or telehealth provider that supplied it. Patients can report suspected side effects or medication quality problems through the FDAs MedWatch program.

Pending home sales plunge as mortgage rates put purchases out of reach

Mark Huffman — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:40:15 +0000

Septembers decline signals a weaker pipeline of completed sales heading into late fall

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Pending home sales fell 7.3% in September and were 11.3% below their level a year earlier, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Every major U.S. region recorded monthly and annual declines, with the West experiencing the steepest losses.
Rising mortgage rates are squeezing buyers purchasing power, while relatively few distressed properties are helping keep home prices steady.

The housing market continued to lose momentum in September, as rising borrowing costs made it harder for Americans to buy a home at current prices.

The National Association of Realtors reports that pending home sales fell 7.3% from August and 11.3% from September 2025.

Market conditions weakened in September due to fast-rising mortgage rates, said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. He said changes in mortgage rates have a greater effect on affordability than the support provided by job growth and income gains.

For buyers who need financing, higher rates mean a larger monthly payment for the same loan amount. That can force households to lower their price range, increase their down payment, or postpone a purchase.

Nationwide declines

The slowdown extended across the country. In the West, pending sales dropped 9.2% from August and 15% from a year earlier. The South recorded declines of 8.2% for the month and 12% annually.

Contract signings in the Midwest fell 6.5% from August and 8.7% from September 2025. The Northeast had the smallest declines, but activity still decreased 4.2% monthly and 9.4% annually.

Yun suggested mortgage rates could be nearing a peak, although rising energy costs and inflation leave the outlook uncertain. He said the limited number of distressed properties is helping maintain steady prices despite weaker demand.

Difficult combination

That leaves buyers facing a difficult combination: fewer competing purchasers may improve their negotiating position, but financing costs can still put a home beyond their budget. A sellers price reduction does not necessarily offset the added monthly expense of a higher mortgage rate.

Pending sales track signed contracts for existing single-family homes, condominiums and co-ops. They generally lead completed sales by one or two months, so Septembers pullback suggests a weaker pipeline of closings heading into late fall. Some contracts may also encounter financing, inspection, or appraisal problems before closing.

Novo Nordisk’s next-generation obesity drug shows 25% weight loss in women

Mark Huffman — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:38:09 +0000

The drug contains a newly developed active ingredient

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Novo Nordisks experimental CagriSema produced an estimated 25% average weight loss in women at 68 weeks, assuming continued treatment.
A separate analysis found substantial weight loss before, during, and after menopause.
The once-weekly injection remains under FDA review, with a decision expected in the fourth quarter of 2026.

Drugs treating obesity appear to be the new frontier in the pharmaceutical industry.

Novo Nordisk reports its investigational obesity drug CagriSema helped women lose an estimated quarter of their body weight over 68 weeks in a new analysis of its REDEFINE 1 clinical trial.

The analysis included 2,309 women across treatment groups. Estimated weight loss was 25% with CagriSema versus 3% with placebo. For someone starting at 220 pounds, a 25% reduction would equal 55 pounds.

The findings, presented at The Menopause Societys annual meeting, assume participants continued treatment without using other weight-loss therapies. They are exploratory results from an existing trial.

Building on semaglutide

CagriSema combines semaglutide, the ingredient in Wegovy, with cagrilintide, an investigational amylin analog. The original trial enrolled 3,417 adults without diabetes and tested the medications alongside lifestyle changes.

Across women and men, average weight loss was 20.4% when researchers included results regardless of treatment adherence, according to the study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. That broader result should be distinguished from the new women-only estimate.

In the menopause analysis, estimated losses were 26.7% before menopause, 24.8% during perimenopause, and 23.1% after menopause. Researchers assigned menopause categories retrospectively; the findings do not establish that reproductive stage caused the differences.

Side effects

Side effects remain part of the treatment picture. In the overall trial, gastrointestinal problems affected 79.6% of CagriSema recipients versus 39.9% receiving placebo. These included nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain, and were generally temporary and mild to moderate.

CagriSema is not FDA-approved. Novo submitted its application in December 2025.

A pill to help dogs live longer moves closer to FDA approval

Mark Huffman — Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:32:15 +0000

The drug has passed important regulatory milestones

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 21, 2026

Loyals experimental daily pill, LOY-002, has cleared two major FDA review requirements on its path toward conditional approval.
The drug is intended for dogs at least 10 years old weighing 14 pounds or more, with the goal of extending healthy life.
Manufacturing review remains unfinished, and a large clinical trial is still testing whether treated dogs actually live longer.

For dog owners wishing for more time with an aging companion, an experimental daily pill is moving closer to becoming a veterinary treatment.

Loyal, a veterinary biotechnology company, is developing LOY-002 to extend the healthy lifespan of older dogs. According to the companys current regulatory updates, the FDA has accepted its safety submission and the evidence supporting a reasonable expectation that the drug will work. Manufacturing requirements remain in progress before the company can secure conditional approval.

The treatment is not yet available for veterinarians to prescribe, and approval is not guaranteed.

How the pill is intended to work

LOY-002 targets metabolic changes associated with aging. Loyal says the treatment aims to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce elevated insulin levels, helping address processes associated with declining health in older dogs.

The intended patients are dogs at least 10 years old that weigh at least 14 pounds. The companys goal is to help them remain healthier longer while extending lifespan.

That goal remains under investigation. An FDA finding of a reasonable expectation of effectiveness does not establish how much additional time the pill might give an individual dog.

What conditional approval would mean

The distinction between conditional and full approval matters for pet owners.

The FDA says conditional approval requires the same safety standards as full approval, but a lower initial threshold for evidence of effectiveness. It allows an animal drug to be sold while the manufacturer gathers the additional evidence needed for full approval.

Conditional approval initially lasts one year and can be renewed annually for a total of up to five years, provided the company demonstrates progress toward completing the effectiveness requirements.

For LOY-002, that means a future conditional approval could allow veterinarians to prescribe the pill while the longer lifespan study continues.

The study that will test the promise

Loyals STAY trial has enrolled more than 1,300 dogs across 70 veterinary practices nationwide. It compares dogs receiving LOY-002 with those receiving a placebo, tracking lifespan, health, and quality of life.

The study is double-blind, meaning owners and investigators do not know which treatment each dog receives. Participation can last up to four years, and enrollment is complete.

On safety, Loyal says its submission included testing at the intended dose and at three and five times that dose, with no clinically significant adverse events observed in that standard safety study. The company also supplied field safety information from 400 senior companion dogs.

Those findings support continued development, but they do not mean every dog would tolerate treatment without problems.

For owners, the central unanswered question is how much longer and how much healthier treated dogs will live. The ongoing trial is designed to supply that answer.

Auto Safety Recall Derby - Week of October 20

News Desk — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:21:12 +0000

Different models of the Alliance RVs are part of this week's auto recall roundup

By News Desk of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Weekly Auto Recall Roundup

Here are the latest vehicle and equipment recalls announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Reminder: Recall repairs are free. Contact your dealer as soon as possible if your vehicle is affected.

Alliance RV, LLC NHTSA Recall ID 26V680000

Issue: Seating Power Cord May Have Inadequate Circuit Protection

Make	Model	Model Years
ALLIANCE RV	DELTA	20262027
ALLIANCE RV	VALOR	20252027

Check your vehicle for recalls

To find out whether your specific vehicle is included in a recall, you can check by VIN or license plate on NHTSA's recall lookup page: NHTSA.gov/recalls.

If your vehicle has an unrepaired recall, contact your local dealership to schedule a repair recall remedies are provided at no cost.

Robocall scams are costing consumers more in 2026, report finds

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:19:41 +0000

Fewer unwanted calls are getting through, but rising fraud losses and AI-powered impersonation are keeping consumers at risk

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Only 42% of phone companies have fully installed required technology designed to help stop fraudulent robocalls, according to a new analysis.
Although scam and unwanted calls have declined, the average reported financial loss from successful phone and text scams has increased.
Artificial intelligence is making it easier for scammers to impersonate trusted people and organizations, raising concerns about how consumers can protect their money.

Unwanted calls may be becoming slightly less common, but that doesn't mean consumers are out of the woods when it comes to phone scams.

A new report from the U.S. PIRG Education Fund finds that many phone companies still haven't fully implemented technology designed to verify callers and help prevent fraudulent calls from reaching consumers.

The report, Ringing in Our Fears 2026, examines how well phone companies are following federal requirements intended to combat robocalls. Five years after those requirements began, fewer than half of registered phone companies have completely installed the necessary technology across their networks.

Scam losses are climbing despite fewer calls

The analysis found that 4,853 of the 11,467 phone companies registered with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) had fully implemented the required technology. The remaining 6,614 had not.

Among the 34 largest or most significant phone companies in the country, 20 had completed installation across their entire networks, 10 had installed the technology on only part of their networks, and four hadn't installed it at all.

There is some encouraging news: YouMail data cited in the report shows that scam and unwanted calls fell to about 2.1 billion per month in 2026, down from nearly 2.5 billion per month in 2025.

However, the financial consequences of successful scams have worsened. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) data shows that consumers who reported losing money to phone scams in the first half of 2026 lost an average of $3,973 per incident, an increase of nearly 8% from the same period in 2025. Average reported losses from scam text messages reached $1,960, up about 35%.

The report points to increasingly convincing scams that use personal information and impersonate banks or government agencies. Artificial intelligence adds another concern by allowing scammers to mimic familiar voices through deepfake calls.

What this means for consumers

Phone number spoofing can make a scam call appear to come from a legitimate source, such as a bank, retailer, or local police department. When phone companies cannot properly verify callers, it becomes harder to identify fraudulent calls and potentially trace the people responsible.

Consumers should be cautious when an unexpected call or text asks for money or personal information, even if it appears to come from a trusted organization. A familiar caller ID or convincing voice isn't proof that a request is legitimate.

The report also highlights the need for continued action from phone companies, regulators, banks, and consumer advocates. While unwanted calls have declined, rising losses show that reducing call volume alone isn't enough. Better verification technology and greater awareness of increasingly sophisticated scams remain important parts of protecting consumers.

Wegmans offers a Thanksgiving meal for less than $5 per person

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:18:21 +0000

The grocery chains holiday deal feeds eight while helping shoppers balance affordability and quality

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Wegmans is bringing back its Thanksgiving meal deal for less than $5 per person, with enough food to serve eight people.
The package includes a frozen turkey, traditional side dishes, dinner rolls and pumpkin pie, with promotional pricing beginning November 8.
A Wegmans survey found that 87% of customers planning to host Thanksgiving are concerned about food costs, while 72% say quality matters more than finding the lowest price.

Hosting Thanksgiving can mean juggling a long grocery list and a holiday budget at the same time. Wegmans is looking to make that task a little easier this year with a traditional Thanksgiving meal that costs less than $5 per person.

The grocery chain announced its 2026 holiday offering, promising enough food for eight people at a price that matches last year's meal. The deal comes as shoppers weigh the cost of holiday ingredients against their desire to serve a meal that feels special.

According to Wegmans, its recent customer survey found that 87% of respondents who plan to host Thanksgiving are worried about food and ingredient costs. Still, 72% said high quality is more important than simply finding the lowest price.

Thanksgiving is about gathering with family and friends around a meal that feels special and familiar, Tom Way, Wegmans senior vice president of merchandising, said in a news release.

Our customers want to make their holiday budgets go further without compromising on quality. By bringing together high-quality products at affordable Hot Zone prices, were making it easier to serve the Thanksgiving experience families look forward to for less than $5 per person.

What's included in the meal deal?

The Thanksgiving package covers many of the basics needed for a traditional holiday dinner.

Heres a look at whats included:

Shady Brook Farms Frozen Turkey, 13 lbs.
McCormick Brown Gravy Mix, 2 count
Stove Top Stuffing Mix Twin Pack, 12 oz.
Wegmans Yellow Onions, 2 lb. bag
Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, 2 count
Wegmans Chicken Stock, 1 count
Wegmans Dinner Rolls, 1 count
Wegmans Canned Corn, 2 count
Wegmans Jellied Cranberry Sauce, 1 count
Wegmans Cut Green Beans, 2 count
Wegmans French Fried Onions, 1 count
Wegmans Cream of Mushroom Soup, 2 count
Wegmans Russet Potatoes, 5 lb. bag
Yams, 3 lbs.
Wegmans Macaroni & Cheese, 2 count
Sara Lee Frozen Pumpkin Pie, 1 count

Wegmans says many of these items are included in its Hot Zone pricing program, which highlights value-priced products throughout its stores.

What shoppers should know before heading to the store

The promotional window runs from November 8 through November 28, 2026, while the frozen turkey promotion ends earlier, on November 22.

Prices are valid for in-store purchases while supplies last, and the exact cost per serving varies by market. The advertised price does not apply at Wegmans locations in Astor Place or Brooklyn, New York, or Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.

For shoppers planning to host, the offer provides a starting point for budgeting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner without having to buy every ingredient at full price. It's also worth checking local store pricing and availability before shopping, particularly if the turkey is the first item on the list.

The deal won't necessarily cover every household's preferred menu, but it gives budget-conscious hosts a concrete option for putting a holiday meal on the table while keeping an eye on costs.

Cashier jobs can lead to more than retail, Monster finds

Kristen Dalli — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:17:11 +0000

New research reveals how cashier experience connects to sales, management, food service, and other career paths

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Cashier experience can open doors: Monsters research identified connections between cashier jobs and positions in sales, management, customer service, and caregiving.
Sales was the most common next step: Researchers recorded 2,268 transitions from cashier to sales representative, more than any other cashier-to-role pathway studied.
A new job title isnt always a promotion: Workers moved between cashier positions and other roles in both directions, highlighting the importance of comparing pay, benefits, schedules, and other job conditions.

Working as a cashier may offer more career possibilities than some job seekers realize. Beyond handling transactions, the role can involve customer service, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills that may also be useful in other positions.

A new report from Monster examines how workers move between cashier jobs and other occupations, including sales, food service, management, and caregiving. The findings suggest that cashier experience can connect to a variety of career paths, although they dont establish that working as a cashier makes someone more likely to land a particular job.

The research also highlights how much a job title can leave out. Depending on their responsibilities, cashiers may gain experience recommending products, resolving customer complaints, managing inventory, or training coworkers. Those skills could help applicants demonstrate their qualifications when pursuing other opportunities.

"Cashier experience can involve much more than operating a register," Monster career expert Vicki Salemi said in a news release. "Job seekers should focus on communicating those capabilities, while employers should look beyond the title to understand what a candidate has actually done."

How Monster conducted its research

Monsters Workforce Mobility Report analyzed resume data covering 990,922 recorded position changes from January through July 2026. For this report, researchers focused on 370,509 transitions that ended in one of the 20 highest-volume destination job titles and involved a different recorded title before the change.

The analysis tracked changes in job titles, employers, and locations over time. Researchers counted a transition as a cross-title move when the previous and destination job titles differed, including cases in which similar occupations were recorded under different names.

The report ranked career pathways by the number of transitions observed. Importantly, it counted position changes rather than unique workers, meaning one person could contribute multiple transitions.

The analysis also didnt determine whether a move represented a promotion, a lateral change, or a step backward. Because the findings covered only selected destination roles, they shouldnt be generalized to every occupation or the entire U.S. workforce.

What the results mean for job seekers

The largest cashier-related pathway was a move into sales representative positions, with 2,268 recorded transitions. Another 1,715 transitions went from cashier to crew member, while 1,415 led to server positions. Researchers also recorded 1,329 moves into management roles and 985 into customer service representative positions.

These connections werent exclusively one-way. For example, Monster recorded 1,638 transitions from sales representative to cashier and 1,799 from crew member to cashier. That pattern shows workers also moved into cashier roles from other positions.

For consumers considering a career change, the findings offer a useful reminder to look beyond job titles. Cashier experience may be relevant to positions involving customer interactions, sales, teamwork, or fast-paced operations, but applicants should match their actual experience to each jobs requirements.

Its also worth comparing the details of a potential new role before making a move. Pay, benefits, hours, commute, workload, and advancement opportunities can all affect whether a job is a meaningful improvement. A different title alone doesnt guarantee a better fit.

Shark Tank's biggest hits: 7 shopping lessons that could save you money

Kyle James — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:49:56 +0000

From Scrub Daddy to Bombas and Ring, some of TV's biggest success stories offer surprising lessons for everyday shoppers

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Big business: Scrub Daddy has reportedly generated more than $2.9 billion in sales, while Bombas has surpassed $2.5 billion.
Not every winner got a deal: Ring and Kodiak Cakes became major success stories despite leaving Shark Tank without an investment.
Popularity doesn't guarantee value: Comparing alternatives, checking price histories, and avoiding unnecessary extras can help you save.

Who knew a smiling sponge could become a multibillion-dollar business? Or that a company selling socks could make billions while giving away millions of pairs?

A new Entertainment Weekly ranking looks at 20 of the biggest success stories from Shark Tank, including Scrub Daddy, Bombas, Ring, and Squatty Potty.

Some made their investors very rich, while others were rejected by the sharks but yet still went on to become household names.

But here's a question the TV show doesn't always answer: Are these products actually worth your money?

Let's look at seven popular Shark Tank success stories and the shopping lessons they offer.

1. Scrub Daddy: Don't pay extra for a famous face

The smiley-faced sponge has reportedly generated more than $2.9 billion in sales. Its big selling point? The material becomes firmer in cold water and softer in warm water.

Shopping tip: Before paying a premium, compare Scrub Daddy (and Scrub Mommy) with those ordinary scrub sponges. The handy holes in the sponge isnt a proprietary feature and many others have the same, making them easy to clean large utensils. The takeaway here is if you mainly need something to wipe down counters or do basic dish washing, a cheaper sponge will often do the job just fine.

2. Bombas: Think beyond the price tag

Bombas built a massive sock business around comfort and its buy-one, donate-one model.

The company has reportedly surpassed $2.5 billion in sales.

Shopping tip: Bombas socks aren't cheap, so don't assume the higher price means they'll last longer. Be sure to compare the materials, cushioning and warranty with less expensive brands.

Also, before buying a multipack, try a single pair to see whether the comfort and fit justify the extra cost of the bulk buy.

3. Ring: Watch out for the subscription

In what has become one of the biggest passes in Shark Tanks history, Ring's founder famously left the show without a deal. Then, in 2018, Amazon swooped in and bought the company for approximately $1 billion.

Today, video doorbells seem to be everywhere and come with many different features and price points.

Shopping tip: Don't look at just the price tag on the camera. The more important factor is to check whether you'll need a paid subscription for recorded video, extended storage, or any other features.

Run the math. A $100 doorbell with a hypothetical $5 monthly subscription costs $280 over three years, before taxes or other add-on expenses. Then take that number and compare it with competitors who offer local storage via a mini SD card with no subscription required.

4. Stasher Bags: Do the break-even math

These reusable silicone food-storage bags became successful enough that SC Johnson acquired the brand in 2019. They're designed to replace disposable plastic bags.

Shopping tip: Figure out how many uses it takes to recover the higher upfront cost. For example, a $12 reusable bag would need 120 uses to match the cost of disposable bags priced at 10 cents each. And remember, reusable doesn't automatically mean cheaper if you rarely use it.

5. Kodiak Cakes: Compare the nutrition label, not the hype

Kodiak Cakes became a major success even though the founders didn't accept a deal from the sharks.

As protein has become a popular trend in light of GLP-1 drugs, their protein-focused pancake mixes also gathered momentum and catapulted the brand.

Shopping tip: Compare protein, fiber, added sugar, and cost per serving with less expensive pancake mixes. Sometimes adding an egg or serving pancakes with Greek yogurt can help you meet your protein goals without paying extra for a specialty mix.

6. Squatty Potty: Try the inexpensive alternative first

The Squatty Potty is a footstool designed to make bathroom visits easier, and it became one of the show's most memorable products.

Shopping tip: Before buying a specialty bathroom stool, its smart to consider whether a sturdy, appropriately sized footstool could provide a similar position for you when youre sitting on the pot.

Just make sure it's stable and doesn't create a slipping hazard of any kind. You may not need a branded product to get the same basic functionality.

7. Drop Stop: Solve the problem without overspending

Drop Stop keeps phones, keys, and other belongings from disappearing between your car seats. The company has reportedly exceeded $100 million in cumulative sales.

Shopping tip: Instead of automatically buying the name-brand, compare it with universal seat-gap fillers that have flooded the market. Pay close attention to fit and whether they interfere with your seat belts or how your seats slide forward or backwards.

Its a fairly simple product that solves an everyday annoyance. And while it can be a worthwhile purchase, the famous brand isn't your only option.

One final warning: Beware of fake Shark Tank endorsements

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) warns that scammers use fake Shark Tank endorsements to promote questionable products.

Before buying something advertised as "Shark-approved," verify that it actually appeared on the show and research the seller independently.

Is your deli meat actually healthy? What shoppers should know before buying

Kyle James — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:45:02 +0000

Food companies are changing how they make lunch meat, but some healthier-sounding labels may be misleading

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Not all deli meat is created equal: Manufacturers are experimenting with new ways to reduce potentially harmful compounds in processed meats.
Watch out for misleading labels: Products advertised as "uncured" or "no nitrates added" aren't necessarily healthier than traditional cold cuts.
You don't have to give up sandwiches: Choosing less processed proteins, checking sodium levels, and adding fiber-rich foods can help improve your lunch.

If you regularly grab turkey, ham, or roast beef from the deli counter, you might want to take a closer look at what you're putting between those slices of bread.

Processed deli meats have long been linked to health concerns, including colorectal cancer. But food manufacturers are now experimenting with new ways to make lunch meat potentially safer.

A new investigation by Men's Health takes a behind-the-scenes look at those efforts, including how one major deli meat manufacturer is changing its production process.

The big question for shoppers: Are these supposedly healthier cold cuts actually better for you, or is it mostly clever marketing?

What's the problem with deli meat?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meat as carcinogenic to humans since 2015, based on evidence linking it to colorectal cancer.

In fact, the WHO estimates that eating about 50 grams of processed meat daily, roughly the amount in a small sandwich, is associated with an 18% higher relative risk of colorectal cancer.

That doesn't mean eating one sandwich increases your cancer risk by 18%. The increased risk comes from regularly eating that amount over time, not from an occasional sandwich.

One concern involves nitrosamines, potentially cancer-causing compounds that can form during meat processing, cooking, and digestion. Also, certain ingredients used when curing meats, including nitrites, can contribute to the formation of nitrosamines.

Companies are trying to make deli meat healthier

Philadelphia-based Dietz & Watson is among the manufacturers experimenting with different curing methods.

According to Men's Health, the company is using carefully controlled amounts of ingredients such as celery and cherry powders, along with adjustments to cooking temperatures, to reduce residual nitrites and the potential formation of nitrosamines.

The company says it plans to have 99% of its deli meats meet its new production standards by 2027.

But here's the catch: Just because a package says "uncured" or "no nitrates or nitrites added" doesn't mean it's free of potentially harmful compounds.

Some manufacturers use celery powder or juice, which naturally contains nitrates that can be converted into nitrites during processing.

Previous testing by Consumer Reports found that some uncured deli meats contained levels of potentially carcinogenic compounds comparable to traditionally cured products.

And while Dietz & Watson says its new methods reduce those compounds, that doesn't establish that the products lower cancer risk in people.

How to make your sandwich healthier

The good news? You don't necessarily need to swear off deli meat forever. Nutrition experts recommend moderation and paying attention to your overall diet.

Here are five ways to make a smarter sandwich:

Don't trust the front of the package. Claims like "natural," "uncured," and "no artificial preservatives" don't automatically make a product healthier.
Compare sodium levels. Deli meats can contain substantial amounts of sodium. Check Nutrition Facts labels and compare the same serving sizes.
Consider freshly cooked meat. Sliced chicken or turkey you've roasted yourself can be a less processed alternative to cured lunch meat.
Add vegetables and fiber. When building your sammy, consider using things like whole-grain bread, spinach, tomatoes, and other produce which can improve the overall nutrition of your sandwich.
Mix up your lunches. Rotate deli meat with options like hummus, beans, eggs, or freshly cooked chicken rather than eating processed meat every day.

Kayem Foods recalls nearly 1.6 million pounds of meat and poultry

Mark Huffman — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 13:41:55 +0000

USDA says a customers complaint led to the discovery of a warehouse refrigeration problem

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Kayem Foods is recalling nearly 1.6 million pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry because of potentially unsafe storage temperatures.
The products were distributed nationwide and to Hong Kong; no confirmed illnesses have been reported.
Consumers should check product labels and discard or return recalled items.

Kayem Foods Inc. is recalling approximately 1,584,361 pounds of ready-to-eat meat and poultry products because they may have been stored at improper temperatures, leading to spoilage, according to the U.S. Department of Agricultures (USDA's) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).

The recall involves products made approximately March 31 through Oct. 7, 2026. They were shipped to retailers and foodservice locations nationwide and in Hong Kong.

The problem came to light after the Chelsea, Massachusetts, company received a retail customers complaint on Oct. 1 about products arriving warm. An investigation determined that various meat and poultry items had been stored in a warehouse cooler that experienced temperature deviations.

FSIS classified the action as a Class I recall, indicating a reasonable probability that consuming the affected products could cause serious health consequences or death. No confirmed illnesses had been reported when the agency issued its announcement.

What to do

Consumers can look for establishment numbers EST. M/P 7839, EST. P 20935A, or EST. M 9520 inside the USDA inspection mark. The USDA recall notice includes links to product labels and a list of affected products and UPC codes.

FSIS is concerned that recalled items may remain in consumers refrigerators. Anyone who has an affected product should stop eating it and either throw it away or return it to the place of purchase. Anyone concerned about illness should contact a healthcare provider.

Consumers with recall questions can contact Kayem Foods Customer Service at 800-426-6100 or info@kayem.com. General food safety questions can be directed to the USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-674-6854.

Why a major housing crash remains unlikely — even as more deals fall through

Mark Huffman — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:46:20 +0000

It would take a major economic upheaval to send prices tumbling

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

A near-record share of canceled home purchases signals a weakening market, but a major nationwide price collapse would require more widespread financial pressure on sellers.
Homeowners equity, strong mortgage underwriting, and fixed-rate loans provide important protection against a wave of distressed sales.
Widespread job losses, tighter credit, and a sustained buildup of inventory could undermine those protections and trigger sharper price declines.

Homebuyers are walking away from purchase agreements, properties are taking longer to sell, and sellers face growing pressure to negotiate. But those developments do not necessarily mean the housing market is heading toward a crash, industry analysts say.

The central question is whether homeowners can afford to wait or must sell at whatever price buyers will pay. The latter was the case during the 2009 housing market crash. Banks foreclosed homes and sold them at whatever price they could get.

Real estate brokerage Redfin reported that 14.5% of home-purchase agreements fell through in September, the highest share outside the first two months of the pandemic. Pending sales declined 4% from August, while the supply of homes for sale reached its highest level since March 2020. Nevertheless, the national median sale price was still 1.3% higher than a year earlier, at $393,895.

Those figures show a market losing momentum. They do not, by themselves, establish that a steep nationwide decline is approaching.

Why prices have protection

Homeowners who can comfortably make their payments have options when offers disappoint. They can postpone moving, reject a low offer, or take their property off the market.

An existing fixed-rate mortgage provides another buffer. Rising market interest rates do not increase that loans principal-and-interest payment, although insurance premiums, property taxes, and other ownership expenses can still rise.

Home equity also matters. Owners whose properties are worth substantially more than their mortgage balances have greater financial flexibility than borrowers who owe more than their homes are worth.

In its May 2026 Financial Stability Report, the Federal Reserve described mortgage credit risk as low, citing substantial equity cushions and strong underwriting standards. Mortgage delinquencies remained near the lower end of their historical range, although some recent buyers with small down payments showed signs of distress.

Those protections help explain why an affordability squeeze can produce a prolonged sales slowdown without immediately causing a price collapse. They do not prevent prices from falling.

What could trigger a crash?

A more dangerous scenario would combine persistently weak buying demand with a growing number of owners under pressure to sell.

Widespread, prolonged job losses could create both conditions. Unemployed households might abandon purchase plans, while some existing owners could exhaust their savings and need to sell.

Persistently high mortgage rates or tighter lending standards could further reduce the number of qualified buyers. Meanwhile, builders carrying unsold homes and investors facing vacancies or operating losses could become more willing to cut prices.

If enough properties sold at substantially lower prices, those transactions could establish lower comparable values for nearby homes. Falling appraisals, reduced equity, and increasingly cautious buyers could reinforce the decline. A rise in foreclosures could intensify that cycle.

These are potential pathways to a crash, rather than evidence that one is inevitable.

A gradual adjustment remains possible

Prices are vulnerable: the Feds May report also said residential property values remained elevated relative to historical fundamentals. But expensive housing alone does not determine the timing or severity of a correction.

Regional markets can experience significant declines even when national prices hold relatively steady. Affordability can also improve gradually through slower price growth, rising incomes, or lower mortgage rates.

Septembers cancellations show that buyers have more room to walk away. A major nationwide crash would become more plausible if homeowners increasingly lost the financial ability to do the same.

Are smart thermostats worth the cost? Research offers a qualified yes

Mark Huffman — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:43:20 +0000

Automated temperature controls can help, but simpler changes may also deliver savings

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

Smart thermostats can lower heating and cooling costs, but research shows savings depend heavily on household habits and equipment.
Consumers should weigh the purchase and installation costs against realistic savings, with utility rebates potentially shortening the payback period.
Adjusting an existing thermostat, sealing drafts, and improving insulation offer other ways to reduce winter heating bills.

A thermostat that learns your schedule and adjusts the temperature automatically sounds like an easy way to cut heating bills. Research suggests it can help but buying one does not guarantee lower costs.

ENERGY STAR estimates that certified smart thermostats save households an average of about 8% on heating and cooling bills. Certification relies on data from actual homes, reflecting how residents use the devices. The percentage applies to heating and cooling expenses, rather than the entire household energy bill.

Other research offers a more cautious assessment. A working paper revised in November 2024 examined two randomized field experiments and 18 months of energy consumption.

Researchers found little evidence of a statistically or economically significant average reduction in energy use, with residents behavior undermining potential savings. The results apply to the households and technology studied, rather than every smart thermostat.

The implication for consumers: Savings depend partly on how much unnecessary heating and cooling the device can eliminate.

Someone who routinely leaves the heat high while away may have more opportunity to save than someone already following an efficient schedule. Researchers found that results varied with how intensively households used energy-saving features.

Calculate the payback

Consider an illustrative household spending $1,200 annually on heating and cooling. An 8% reduction would save $96 a year. If a thermostat and installation cost $200 after rebates, the simple payback would be just over two years. Smaller savings would stretch that period.

Consumers should include installation in their calculations and check equipment compatibility before purchasing. Depending on the utility and location, discounts or rebates may reduce the upfront expense.

Other ways to lower heating bills

Consumers can also start with the controls they already own. Federal guidance says turning a thermostat down seven to 10 degrees for eight hours daily can save as much as 10% annually on heating and cooling, depending on climate and equipment. A basic programmable thermostat can automate that schedule.

Heat-pump owners need a different approach. Large winter setbacks can trigger expensive auxiliary electric resistance heat during recovery. Thermostats designed for heat pumps can use adaptive recovery to minimize that backup heating.

Sealing drafts is another option. Caulking gaps and weatherstripping doors and windows can reduce unwanted airflow. For homes needing more substantial improvements, EPA estimates that air sealing combined with insulation in areas such as attics and crawl spaces saves an average of 15% on heating and cooling costs. That estimate covers a package of improvements, not a single small repair.

Routine maintenance and window coverings can help, too. The Department of Energy recommends cleaning or replacing heating-system filters as directed, opening south-facing curtains to capture winter sunshine and closing them at night.

For a household already managing temperatures carefully, addressing drafts or inadequate insulation may offer more opportunity than replacing a functioning thermostat.

Gas prices fall, but oil market turmoil threatens savings

Mark Huffman — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:40:25 +0000

The national average gas price has fallen by 23 cents a gallon in the last month

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

GasBuddy says the national gasoline average fell 5.5 cents to $4.24 a gallon, helped by state fuel tax suspensions.
Drivers are still paying $1.26 more per gallon than a year ago.
Oil above $100 a barrel and shipping disruptions threaten further relief at the pump.

Gasoline prices are easing, but GasBuddys weekly report suggests drivers should remain cautious about their fuel budgets.

The national average declined to $4.24 a gallon, down 23 cents from a month earlier. State tax suspensions and markets moving through their usual price cycles helped drive the weekly decline, according to GasBuddy.

Average gasoline prices declined in the vast majority of states over the last week, led by a combination of state fuel tax suspensions and price-cycling markets working their way back down, while diesel rose in most states, though the largest diesel decline was driven by a state tax suspension, Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, said in the GasBuddy Blog.

For now, the outlook remains tied to geopolitical developments, and some price-cycling states could see upward swings in the days ahead if oil markets firm at all. Motorists in states that benefited from tax suspensions may continue to see some insulation from broader market pressures, but the overall picture remains fluid.

What it means for motorists

For a driver buying 15 gallons, that monthly decrease saves about $3.45. However, the same purchase still costs approximately $18.90 more than a year ago.

The outlook remains uncertain. GasBuddy reported that mine strikes on two supertankers in the Strait of Hormuz disrupted shipping, while U.S. crude traded around $100.61 a barrel early Monday.

Despite that, oil prices retreated slightly to start the week. The retreat came after President Trump waived new Russia sanctions on Friday and announced a deal to bring Russian diesel to the U.S., easing one supply risk even as the Hormuz situation deteriorated.

Gas prices varied sharply by location at the start of the week. North Carolina had the lowest state average at $3.58, while Californias was highest at $6.12.

Diesel prices moved in the opposite direction from gasoline, rising 5.2 cents to $6.30 a gallon, making it even more expensive to move consumer products around the country.

Changing jobs can leave retirement savings behind, survey finds

Mark Huffman — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 12:38:53 +0000

New research highlights how scattered accounts complicate retirement planning

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

October 20, 2026

One-third of Americans say they may have lost track of retirement savings from a previous employer, according to new Empower research.
Younger adults report the greatest difficulty, with 50% of Gen Z and 45% of millennials saying they may have overlooked accounts.
Confusion and competing financial priorities keep many people from dealing with old retirement savings.

Changing employers can bring a fresh start, but retirement savings sometimes get left behind.

A new survey released by Empower found that 34% of Americans say they may have retirement savings from a former employer that they have lost track of. The retirement services and wealth management company calls the problem retirement drift, describing how accounts can become scattered as workers move between jobs.

The findings reflect respondents uncertainty about their accounts, rather than a tally of missing money.

Changing jobs is a normal part of a career, but our financial lives dont always transition as neatly, said Jane Bartosik, senior vice president of Wealth Solutions at Empower.

More than half of respondents have changed employers at least three times, and 39% report having retirement savings spread across accounts from different employers. Some 54% say multiple accounts make retirement planning harder.

Younger workers face greater uncertainty

The problem appears particularly pronounced among younger adults. Half of Gen Z respondents and 45% of millennials say they may have lost track of savings from an earlier job, compared with 30% of Gen X and 14% of baby boomers.

Separately, 41% of respondents arent confident they could locate all their retirement savings today. That figure reaches 57% among Gen Z.

For many respondents, managing retirement accounts gets pushed aside. Some 54% say the task often falls to the bottom of their financial priorities, while 47% have delayed decisions such as a rollover because the process felt overwhelming.

Two-thirds wish someone had explained their retirement savings options when they changed jobs. More than half werent aware they had several options after leaving an employer.

Clearer instructions could help: 76% say guidance outlining each step would make them more likely to act, and 70% would be more willing to combine old accounts if the process took less time.

The findings come from an online survey of 2,005 U.S. adults conducted July 30August 1, 2026, by an independent panel provider. Results were weighted to represent U.S. adults nationally.

A consumer psychologist breaks down why shrinkflation fools us

Kyle James — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 21:27:31 +0000

We notice higher prices more easily than smaller packages and manufacturers know it

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

October 19, 2026

Our brains have a shrinkflation blind spot: Small changes in package size can be surprisingly difficult to perceive, according to consumer psychologist Aarron Atkinson-Toal.
We watch prices more closely than package sizes: Research shows shoppers react more strongly to a price hike than an equivalent reduction in quantity.
You can make shrinkflation easier to spot: Ignore the package's appearance and compare unit prices, net weights, and item counts instead.

You grab the same bag of chips or box of cereal you always buy. The price looks familiar. The package looks familiar. But there's less inside. Sometimes a lot less.

So why are we so easy to fool?

Aarron Atkinson-Toal, Ph.D., an assistant professor of marketing at Durham University who studies consumer behavior and shopping psychology, recently broke down the psychology behind shrinkflation for Psychology Today.

His explanation is fascinating because shrinkflation doesn't just take advantage of shoppers who aren't paying attention. It also takes advantage of how our brains perceive changes in the first place.

Your brain notices $5.49. It may not notice 1.5 ounces

Think about two ways a cereal company could raise what you're effectively paying. It could increase the price from $4.99 to $5.49. Or it could leave the price at $4.99 and quietly put less cereal in the box.

Atkinson-Toal explains that we're generally much better at detecting the first change than the second. Shelf prices are highly visible and easy to remember, while small differences in the weight and volume are much harder to judge.

There's actually psychology behind this. Atkinson-Toal points to the "just noticeable difference," or JND, which is the threshold at which a physical change becomes large enough for us to perceive it.

Below that threshold, a small reduction may be extremely difficult to notice.

And appearances don't necessarily help. Research cited by Atkinson-Toal has found that people tend to perceive taller containers as holding more than shorter, wider containers, even when their volumes are identical.

That means simply looking at two packages isn't a particularly reliable way to determine which contains more.

Here's why companies have an incentive to shrink

The strategy absolutely appears to work.

Atkinson-Toal highlights 2026 research that examined roughly four million products over a decade. Researchers identified about 77,000 products that had been downsized which is more than five times the number that had increased in size.

More revealing was how shoppers responded. A 1% increase in price reduced sales by roughly 1.2%. But a 1% reduction in product size produced only about half as large a sales decline.

In many cases, consumers made up for getting less product by simply buying more of it, increasing their TOTAL spending.

The above sentence basically sums up why companies are drawn to shrinking sizes but keeping the price the same. Consumers tend to react more strongly when the number on the price tag changes than when the amount inside the package changes.

Government research has reached a similar conclusion. The U.S. Government Accountability Office found that studies it reviewed generally showed consumers were less likely to react to product downsizing than to straightforward price increases.

But something changes once we catch them

Here's the psychological twist. Shrinkflation may work particularly well when we don't notice it, but we really don't like it when we do.

Atkinson-Toal cites experiments comparing people's reactions to a price increase and an economically equivalent reduction in product size. Consumers judged the downsizing more harshly.

The likely explanation isn't simply losing money. An obvious price increase can be interpreted as a transparent response to higher costs. Shrinking the package can feel like the company was trying to make the increase harder to detect.

In other words, there's a big difference psychologically between "this costs more" and "you gave me less and hoped I wouldn't notice."

How to outsmart your own brain

Fortunately, you don't need to become an expert at visually estimating the volume of cereal boxes.

Look at unit price first. Instead of comparing $4.99 with $5.29, compare the price per ounce, pound, or count. That's the number that exposes a size reduction even when the shelf price hasn't moved.
Snap a pic of the products you buy regularly and store it on your phone. Don't rely on your memory of how big the package looked last month. Compare the ounces, fluid ounces, sheets, pods, or item count printed on the label.
Don't assume "family size" is the best deal. Bigger packaging can make something look like a bargain, but the unit price tells you whether you're actually getting one.
Watch for redesigns. When a familiar product suddenly gets new packaging, take a few seconds to check its net weight. A package can look just as large (or even larger) while containing less.

Shrinkflation succeeds partly because most of us aren't walking through the grocery store memorizing how many ounces were in last month's cereal box.

And according to Atkinson-Toal, that's precisely the point. Your eyes may tell you the product hasn't changed. Your brain may tell you the price hasn't changed. The unit price tells you whether the deal has.

Too busy to be stressed? Study finds it’s not that simple

Kristen Dalli — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:39:20 +0000

Feeling rushed may hurt mental health more than having a packed schedule, new research suggests

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 19, 2026

A study of 646 college students found that those with busier schedules were less likely to report depression and tended to earn better grades.
Students who felt constantly rushed were more likely to experience anxiety and depression, regardless of how much they had to do.
Mindfulness may help people manage busy schedules by shifting their attention to the present moment.

Between work, family responsibilities, appointments, and everyday errands, it can feel like there simply aren't enough hours in the day. It's easy to assume that clearing a few things off the calendar is the key to feeling less stressed. But new research from the University of Colorado Boulder suggests the relationship between time and mental health may be more complicated.

The study, published in the Journal of American College Health, found that having a packed schedule wasn't necessarily linked to worse mental health. Instead, how people felt about their time appeared to make a meaningful difference.

Researchers found that students with busier schedules were less likely to experience depression, while those who regularly felt rushed reported more anxiety and depression. The findings suggest that the problem may not always be how much we have to do, but how we experience the time available to us.

We have a tendency to think, Oh, things will get better, and I wont be stressed if I can just take some things off of my plate, researcher Caitlin McKimmy said in a news release. These data show that its not that simple that outside of what is actually on our calendar we need to heal our relationship with time.

How researchers studied time and mental health

The researchers surveyed 646 undergraduate students to explore two different aspects of time: time scarcity and time pressure.

Time scarcity referred to the actual amount of uncommitted time students had available. To measure it, researchers collected information about how many hours participants spent in class, studying, working, commuting, and handling other activities.

Time pressure, meanwhile, described the subjective feeling of constantly being in a hurry or struggling to keep up. The survey also assessed participants' anxiety, depression, and mindfulness, which involves paying attention to the present moment.

Students also agreed to share their grade-point averages and academic records, allowing researchers to examine how their schedules and perceptions of time related to academic performance.

This approach helped the researchers distinguish between having a genuinely full calendar and feeling overwhelmed by time constraints.

What the findings could mean for consumers

The results revealed an important distinction. Students with less free time were less likely to report depression and tended to have better grades. Those experiencing greater time pressure, however, showed higher levels of anxiety and depression and lower grades.

Mindfulness also appeared to matter. Students who scored higher on mindfulness measures experienced fewer negative mental health effects associated with time pressure.

For consumers juggling busy lives, the findings suggest that cutting back on commitments isn't necessarily the only way to manage stress. Choosing activities that align with personal interests and values, along with taking moments to breathe and refocus on the present, may help make a demanding schedule feel more manageable.

Still, the study doesn't prove that being busy improves mental health. Researchers noted that people who already feel better may be more likely to pursue activities, while other factors could influence both time perception and emotional well-being.

The takeaway isn't that everyone should pack more into their day. Rather, it may be worth paying attention to the difference between having too little free time and feeling perpetually rushed. Those experiences aren't always the same, and understanding that distinction could help people approach their schedules differently.

These data support the idea that doing more and being engaged can not only lead to better mental health but could also support academic and professional success, McKimmy said.

The amount of time we have in our week isnt super malleable. But the way we think about time is.

BJ’s kicks off Black Friday deals early on October 23

Kristen Dalli — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:37:44 +0000

The warehouse club is offering discounts on toys, TVs, electronics, and home goods to help members get ahead on holiday shopping

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 19, 2026

BJs Wholesale Clubs Early Black Friday sale begins October 23, with deals available both in stores and online.
Members can save up to 40% on select electronics, 30% on select home and kitchen products, and 20% on select toys.
Additional perks include an extra 10% off toy purchases with a coupon, free shipping on select items, and convenient shopping options.

Black Friday shopping is getting an early start this year at BJs Wholesale Club. The retailer announced that its Early Black Friday event will begin October 23, giving members a chance to shop for holiday gifts and household items before the traditional late-November shopping rush.

The sale will feature discounts across several categories, including toys, televisions, electronics, and home and kitchen products. Shoppers can browse deals at BJs warehouse clubs or shop online, making it possible to start checking gifts off their lists without waiting until Thanksgiving weekend.

For 42 years, BJs has been offering members unbeatable savings on gifts for everyone on their holiday shopping list, Stephanie Reibling, Executive Vice President, Chief Merchandising Officer, BJs Wholesale Club, said in a news release.

Our Early Black Friday event is the perfect opportunity for families to get ahead of the holiday rush and save even more. Were excited to kick off the shopping season with assortment and value we know our members will love.

What shoppers can expect from the sale

The Early Black Friday event includes several discounts on items that could appeal to holiday shoppers.

Members can get up to 20% off select toys, along with an additional 10% off their entire toy purchase when using a coupon. Exclusions apply, and free shipping is also available. Featured products include the Elf on the Shelf Santas Snuggler Bundle, Tytan Magnetic Tiles, and Hot Wheels R/C Lets Race Snake.

For shoppers considering bigger gifts, BJs is offering up to 40% off select TVs and electronics, plus free delivery on eligible items. Featured products include a Samsung 85-inch U8000HD Crystal UHD 4K Smart TV, Sony wireless noise-canceling headphones, and a Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 laptop.

Home and kitchen products will also be part of the promotion, with up to 30% off select items and free shipping. Examples include a Frigidaire touchscreen nugget ice maker, a Cuisinart Smart Stick immersion blender, and a Dyson V10 Konical cordless stick vacuum.

Members shopping online can also use curbside pickup, same-day delivery where available, and shipping. In stores, the BJs mobile app offers ExpressPay, which lets shoppers scan items as they go and skip the checkout line.

What this means for consumers

For BJs members, the early sale offers an opportunity to spread out holiday shopping instead of leaving every purchase until November. Shoppers looking for toys, electronics, or kitchen appliances may find it worthwhile to compare the advertised discounts with their budgets and shopping lists.

Still, the maximum advertised savings apply to select products, not necessarily every item in a category. Toy shoppers will also need to check the coupon requirements and exclusions before counting on the additional discount.

The sale begins October 23 both in-club and online at BJs.com/BlackFriday. Members who have specific gifts in mind can check the available offers before heading to a store or placing an order.

4 in 10 homeowners can’t afford a $5,000 emergency, survey finds

Kristen Dalli — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:36:35 +0000

A new report from The Zebra highlights the gap between homeowners confidence in their insurance coverage and their ability to recover financially after a disaster

By Kristen Dalli of ConsumerAffairs

October 19, 2026

40% of homeowners say they couldnt afford a $5,000 emergency, despite disaster recovery costs averaging $22,100.
Many homeowners misunderstand their coverage, with 35% believing standard homeowners insurance covers flood or earthquake damage.
The Zebras insurance analyst recommends documenting damage, saving receipts, and reviewing policies regularly to avoid costly coverage gaps.

Many homeowners feel confident that their insurance will protect them if disaster strikes. But a new survey from The Zebra suggests that feeling prepared and being financially ready for the unexpected are two very different things.

According to the insurance comparison platforms 2026 State of Insurance: Home report, 40% of homeowners say they couldnt afford a $5,000 emergency, even though homeowners who restored their properties after a disaster spent an average of $22,100.

ConsumerAffairs spoke with Beth Swanson, insurance analyst at The Zebra,who explained what these findings reveal about homeowners financial preparedness and the potential gaps they may need to address.

Methodology

The Zebras 2026 State of Insurance: Home report draws on three sources:

733,436 home insurance premiums
A national survey of 2,500 homeowners
Interviews with 26 homeowners who experienced catastrophic insurance claims within the past five years.

The report examines how extreme weather, rising insurance costs, and gaps in coverage can affect homeowners ability to recover financially after a disaster.

Key Findings

The report highlights a disconnect between homeowners confidence in their insurance and their financial readiness for a disaster.

Key findings include:

40% of homeowners said they couldnt afford a $5,000 emergency.
34% had experienced damage from severe weather or a natural disaster.
81% believed they had adequate coverage for their home and belongings, while 77% believed they were covered in the event of a natural disaster.
Only about one-third felt very or extremely prepared for a natural disaster.
35% believed their standard homeowners insurance policy covered flood or earthquake damage, which typically requires separate coverage.
More than one-third of homeowners with covered claims reported a gap between their insurance payout and the actual cost of repairs.
One-quarter of homeowners who filed a claim couldnt stay in their homes after the damage. Of those, only about half said insurance fully covered their temporary lodging expenses.

The report also found that homeowners who restored their properties after a disaster spent an average of $22,100 in 2023, underscoring how quickly recovery costs can add up.

Lowering out-of-pocket costs

If you feel unprepared for a natural disaster, Swanson recommends taking the following steps to mitigate your out-of-pocket costs:

Document everything: Take videos and photos of any and all damage, flooded areas, ruined belongings, etc. An adjuster will likely visit the property to inspect, but its a good idea to document everything you can to ensure you get the most from your claim payout. If youve got a home inventory from before the disaster, this will be important to share, as well. If there are ruined items youll need to throw away that might have serial numbers, be sure to take photos of these things as well.
Save all receipts for temporary fixes: After a major disaster, adjusters are often backlogged. Don't wait for them before taking steps to prevent further damage, like tarping a leaking roof or boarding up broken windows. Keep detailed records and save every receipt for materials or emergency labor; your insurer will usually reimburse these necessary protective measures.
Look into grants or FEMA options: This depends on your location and the event itself, but you may be able to file for FEMA assistance (or other options through your state) to help cover costs of housing and other repairs your insurance doesnt cover. You can also reach out to your mortgage company and credit card companies to explain the situation if finances become tight after a major disaster. Remember that insurance reimbursement can take time, and money might come in different stages over an extended period of time.

Know your policy

With 35% of homeowners thinking that their standard insurance policy covers damage from earthquakes or flood damage, its important to know what your policy actually covers.

Its a huge misconception that if your mortgage company doesnt require flood insurance (because you arent in a FEMA designated flood risk zone) then your house is safe and you dont need it, Swanson said. As we continue to see more severe weather events, this is growing into a bigger issue, and its not only a huge stressor and disappointment if you think youll be covered and then youre not, but its extremely pricey to handle everything that comes along with cleaning up a flooded home.

Swanson explained that there are a lot of insurance endorsements homeowners might not be aware of that can come in very handy. I always carry sewer/septic backup coverage, personally, she said. Consider service lines coverage (to repair utilities coming from the street onto your property, like gas or fiber optic) or code upgrade insurance as additional options.

Always review your coverage

If theres one takeaway from this survey, Swanson said its that insurance shouldnt be a set-it-and-forget-it purchase.

People often worry that updating coverage means spending a lot more money, but its really about closing hidden gaps (like adding low-cost water backup or service line protection) before they turn into devastating out-of-pocket costs, she said. Homeowners actually have far more control than they realize, and they might be surprised at how little some of the endorsements add to their cost.

As local weather patterns shift, treating your policy like a living document and giving it a quick tune-up every year or so ensures your coverage matches today's reality (and protects one of your biggest investments, and your savings).

Think buying American protects you from tariffs? New research says otherwise

Kyle James — Mon, 19 Oct 2026 15:34:35 +0000

New research from the New York Fed reveals why tariffs can keep pushing prices higher months after they're introduced

By Kyle James of ConsumerAffairs

October 19, 2026

Tariffs hit American-made products, too: Roughly one-third of tariff-related consumer price increases come from goods manufactured in the United States.
Price hikes take time: Imported products typically get more expensive first, while American-made goods can take six to 12 months to reflect higher costs.
Higher prices can linger: Even when tariff-related inflation slows, shoppers may continue paying more than they otherwise would.

If you've been wondering why prices keep creeping higher, even on products made right here in America, new research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York offers an explanation.

And it turns out tariffs can keep affecting prices long after they're announced.

In a new report, researchers examined how tariffs work their way through the economy before eventually reaching consumers.

Their big finding is that for every 10 percentage-point increase in average tariffs, consumer goods prices rise approximately 2.6% after a year. And it's not just imported products getting more expensive.

Even American-made products are getting pricier

It's easy to assume tariffs only affect products manufactured overseas. But researchers found that roughly one-third of tariff-related consumer price increases come from products manufactured in the United States.

There are two main reasons worth considering.

First, American manufacturers often depend on imported materials and components.

For example, think about a car assembled in Michigan. While it might be put together in America, it often contains imported steel, electronics, rubber, or aluminum.

So when those materials become more expensive because of tariffs, manufacturers will naturally face higher production costs that can eventually reach consumers wallets.

Second, tariffs can give American companies more room to raise prices.

When imported competitors become more expensive, domestic manufacturers face less pressure to keep their own prices low.

The researchers found evidence of both effects, although rising production costs played the larger role.

The price increases can take a full year

Here's something particularly interesting for shoppers: Tariff-related price increases don't necessarily happen when tariffs first take effect.

Researchers found that nearly 90% of the tariffs studied were passed through to U.S. import prices, often almost immediately.

But those higher costs take time to reach store shelves. About half of the direct effect on retail prices appears within three months, with the full direct effect arriving after approximately six months.

American-made goods take even longer. Their price increases generally build over six to 12 months as manufacturers adjust to higher costs.

That means shoppers can continue seeing tariff-related price pressure long after the initial announcements have faded from the headlines.

Slower inflation doesn't mean lower prices

The New York Fed estimates that tariffs pushed consumer goods prices nearly 3% above where they otherwise would have been in February 2026.

That effect eased to approximately 2% by August following changes in tariff policy.

But there's an important distinction between inflation slowing and prices actually coming down. Even if tariffs stop adding to inflation, the higher prices they caused can remain.

In other words, a product that became more expensive because of tariffs doesn't automatically return to its old price when tariff-related inflation slows.

What shoppers can do to protect their budgets

Unfortunately, there's no simple way to avoid tariffs entirely, especially when American-made products can be affected, too.

But a few shopping strategies can help:

Don't assume buying American avoids tariff costs. Because many domestic products contain imported materials, if youre on a budget, its smart to compare prices rather than relying solely on country-of-origin labels.
Track prices before big purchases. For electronics, appliances, and other expensive items, use price-history tools like Keepa or CamelCamelCamel to determine whether a sale is actually a good deal.
Consider refurbished and open-box products. These can offer meaningful savings compared with buying new.
Don't panic-buy because of tariff headlines. Price increases can take months to reach consumers, and not every product will be affected equally.