The same thing happened to me to in december however i paid $150 so im £75 out of pocket and it was a christmas present. I was however allowed to take my perfume on board even though it was purchased at the same time and on the same receipt as the alcohol.I dont quite understand why one was confiscated without the other as they are both liquids. I was travelling from jfk to manchester via schipol. I have tried to complain to schipol an received a very apologetic letter which although it was nice to get a reply... im still out of pocket. I feel this is happening to more people than we think. I intend to write to schipol again but would like the address to complain to JFK duty free but cant seem to find an email address or complaints proceedure anywhere. Was wondering if u had any details to complain to JFK because I agree with you that ultimately they should be responsible for informing us before we make purchases. I would be very grateful if you have a contact point for JFK if you could forward it to me michelledennett@hotmail.co.uk. If i get any further with my complaint I will let You know.
Many thanks Michelle x
this happened to me too!