I had an idle thought that we should force companies to print their unit cost on packaging, so customers can see at a glance by how much of a mark-up we're being screwed with every purchase. Of course, aside from the myriad ways they'd cheat their way around it, it would have the opposite effect. Everyone would start buying worse rip-offs for bragging rights, just as you all buy brand name mayonnaise instead of store brand now.

Anytime you find yourself wanting to save this species, remember it neither wants to, nor can it be saved from its own stupidity. The damage is self-inflicted. Let it rot.