

The $15 Mocktail: Is This Price Gouging or Alchemy?
Mocktails and the Alchemy of Price Gouging: Are Distillers Exploiting Consumers? In a time of economic uncertainty, consumers are looking for ways to save money. One unexpected area of price inflation has been mocktails, non-alcoholic versions of classic cocktails. The price of these drinks, often comparable to their alcoholic counterparts, has raised eyebrows among bar patrons. "It's simply price gouging," says Justin Moore, a social media influencer known as 'thed3list,' who recently made a viral video on the topic. "They're claiming the process is like alchemy, but it's just syrup and juice." Moore's video highlights the frustration of consumers facing rising prices, particularly for non-alcoholic options. This situation underscores the broader issue of companies using any justification to increase profits during times of economic hardship. The high cost of mocktails is not just an isolated incident; it reflects a larger trend of rising prices affecting various goods and services. The situation serves as a reminder for consumers to be mindful of pricing and to seek out more affordable alternatives when possible.