Which of the following best describes 'pilferage'?

'Pilferage' specifically refers to the act of stealing small amounts of items or products, typically over time. This term is commonly used in contexts such as retail, where individuals may take items without paying for them, often in a non-violent manner. The emphasis on non-violent theft makes this choice appropriate, as it captures the essence of what pilferage entails—taking goods covertly and generally with the intent of not getting caught.

In contrast, the other options do not encapsulate the concept of pilferage accurately. Discussing quality control issues pertains to standards and processes for ensuring products meet specified criteria, which is unrelated to theft. Similarly, methods for reducing inventory loss focus on preventive measures against losses, rather than the act of stealing itself. Lastly, while fraudulent transactions involve deceit for financial gain, they can vary widely and do not specifically denote the small-scale, stealthy nature of pilferage. Therefore, identifying pilferage with a thief who acts without violence aligns most clearly with its definition.