Walmart shopper issues warning for people who buy Maruchan ramen at the store

Photo byJonathan Weiss/Shutterstock @oldnerdreviews/Tiktok @oldnerdreviews/Tiktok

If you're looking to cut costs, the usual advice is to purchase in bulk. It's believed that buying larger amounts and in packages will give you a better deal per item, correct? However, a recent comment from a customer at Walmart has shown that this isn't always true.

On a popular TikTok, Tony (@oldnerdreviews) points out Walmart after finding out that purchasing a 12-pack of Maruchan ramen is actually pricier than buying the same quantity in single-pack sizes. His video features the on-screen caption: “Walmart is dumb.”

The TikToker, while filming the ramen aisle, explains, “Usually, when you buy in a package rather than singles, it’s a lower price because that’s the way they want you to go. Right? That makes sense. That’s marketing.”

At Tony’s Walmart, the 12-pack is priced at $3.68. That’s 8 cents more than buying the same 12 individual packs at 30 cents each, which would total $3.60. Using an on-screen calculator, Tony demonstrates the same in his video.

“How’s that make any sense anymore? Makes sense out of that,” he concludes.

Commenters say it’s not a one-off

The video, first uploaded on September 5, has currently garnered over 110,400 views. In the comment section, numerous viewers have mentioned they're beginning to observe a similar pattern with various bulk products.

One commenter shared, “I’ve seen that on several items at Walmart. Went to buy some Cuties. 2 – 3lb bags were cheaper than the 5lb bag and I got an extra lb.”

Another offered a possible explanation, writing, “It’s more convenient to buy one box than 12 individual packs falling all over the place idk.”

“This is why I’m [at] the store forever comparing prices,” a third user admitted.

“It is important to look at the per item/per oz amount. Buying in bulk has typically been cheaper, but over the last year or so I’ve noticed there is less & less of a savings gap for buying in bulk,” one more remarked.

Despite this, a Lending Tree analysis from 2023 found that buying in bulk instead of lower quantities could save the average consumer 27% “across 30 common products.”

The report also revealed that paper towels, water, and batteries tend to have the largest price gap between bulk and individual purchases.