Consumer Affairs

Facts You Should Know

Unit Price
Most food items, pet foods, and paper products in grocery stores must have a unit price displayed in pounds or pints. Consumers can use the lowest unit price to quickly find the best buy.

Tare
All packaged products must declare the net contents. Packaging is tare and not included in the net contents. Ice glaze on seafood is also tare.

Inspection Seal
All weighing and measuring devices (e.g., scales, gas pumps, taximeters) that have been tested and approved for use will have an inspection seal affixed to them.

Price Scanning
The price charged for an item at the checkout stand must be the same as the lowest advertised price on shelf tags, sale signage, or in the newspaper.

Zero Display
All meters and scales must start operation with a zero indication.

Complaints
Consumers should contact the Consumer Affairs Unit with any complaints using the on-line form at this web site, email: seattle.consumer-affairs@seattle.gov, phone: (206) 386-1298, or fax: (206) 386-1129.