The CPI is gamed to keep people from panicking, and to ensure that the government doesn't have to increase social security payments too much, as they're tied to

The CPI is gamed to keep people from panicking, and to ensure that the government doesn't have to increase social security payments too much, as they're tied to official CPI numbers. Another way inflation is "hidden" is in things like product packaging. Look at how jars of spaghetti sauce, cereal boxes, packages of coffee etc. are shrinking. You pay the same price for fewer goods.