Select stores lock milk behind secured cases to prevent shoplifting

Well, Denver, we’ve officially reached a new level of grocery store chaos.

Some gas stations and stores across the country are now locking milk behind secured cases because of shoplifting. Yes, milk. The same thing you need approximately every 48 hours when you have kids at home. According to The Nerd Stash, customers will need to track down an employee to unlock the case before grabbing their gallon. Because, apparently, we can’t have nice things anymore.

As a mom who already feels like she’s running a marathon every time she steps foot in a store, the idea of hunting down a store employee — who is definitely not hiding in the back — just to grab a gallon of 2 percent is… a lot.

Stores say the locked cases are meant to reduce theft and cut losses. And honestly? Fair enough. Shoplifting costs retailers billions of dollars annually, and those costs eventually trickle down to the rest of us at the register. But still…milk.

No word yet on whether Denver-area stores are making the switch, but don’t be surprised if it’s coming to a neighborhood store near you.

In the meantime, maybe just check your fridge before leaving the house. You know, like we tell our kids to do.