16 Costco Foods You Should Steer Clear of, According to Experts

Costco is known for its great deals and bulk savings, but not everything on the shelves is worth buying. Some foods may seem like a bargain, but experts warn that they can be unhealthy, low quality, or just not as fresh as they should be. Many of these items are loaded with preservatives, excess sugar, or unhealthy fats, making them less than ideal for regular consumption. Others may have inconsistent taste or texture, leaving shoppers disappointed after bringing them home.

Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza

The Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza is a budget-friendly frozen meal, but it does not rank high in taste or nutrition. The crust is often described as too thick and dry, while the cheese lacks the rich, gooey texture found in better-quality pizzas. Some customers also complain that the sauce is bland and overly sweet, making the overall flavor underwhelming. From a health perspective, these pizzas contain high amounts of sodium and processed ingredients, which are not ideal for regular consumption. If you are craving pizza, making your own at home allows you to use better ingredients and control the portion size. Even a take-and-bake pizza from Costco’s deli section offers a fresher alternative. For those who want a frozen option, there are many other brands with better quality and taste.

Croissants

Costco’s croissants may look flaky and buttery, but they are not the best choice if you are watching your diet. These pastries are packed with refined flour, unhealthy fats, and a high amount of calories. Many nutritionists warn that croissants provide little nutritional value while contributing to weight gain when eaten regularly. They also contain preservatives to maintain their long shelf life, which is not ideal for those looking for fresh, wholesome options. While they taste good fresh, some customers complain that they become stale quickly, making them less enjoyable after a day or two. If you love croissants, you might be better off buying them from a local bakery where they are made fresh daily. A homemade version using whole wheat flour and quality butter can also be a healthier alternative.

Kirkland Signature Muffins

Costco’s oversized Kirkland Signature Muffins are a tempting treat, but they are more like a dessert than a breakfast option. Each muffin can pack over 600 calories, with high amounts of sugar, refined flour, and unhealthy fats. Dietitians warn that starting your day with this much sugar can lead to energy crashes and increased cravings later on. Despite their large size, they offer little nutritional value, lacking fiber and protein that would keep you full. Some customers also note that they can taste overly sweet, making them feel more like cake than a muffin. If you enjoy muffins, consider making your own with whole grains and natural sweeteners for a healthier option. Buying a smaller portion of fresh-baked muffins from a local bakery may also be a better choice.

Kirkland Bacon

Kirkland bacon is a favorite among many Costco shoppers, but health experts advise moderation. It contains high levels of sodium, saturated fat, and preservatives, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure. Some customers have also noted inconsistencies in quality, with certain batches being overly fatty or salty. Processed meats like bacon are known to contain nitrates, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer when consumed in large amounts. If you love bacon, choosing nitrate-free options or uncured bacon may be a better choice. There are also leaner alternatives like turkey bacon or plant-based options that still offer a savory flavor. For those who want to cut down on processed meats, cooking fresh cuts of pork with seasoning can be a tasty and healthier swap.

Cheesecake

Costco’s massive cheesecakes may be great for large gatherings, but they are loaded with sugar, fat, and calories. One slice can contain as many as 500 calories, making it a poor choice for those watching their sugar intake. Many customers also find them overly dense and rich, making it hard to eat more than a small portion at a time. The ingredient list includes artificial flavors and preservatives, which are unnecessary for a homemade cheesecake. While they are affordable for the size, they may not be the best option if you prefer desserts with simple, natural ingredients. If you are craving cheesecake, making your own at home with reduced sugar and lighter ingredients can be a healthier way to enjoy it. There are also smaller, high-quality cheesecakes available at specialty bakeries that offer better texture and flavor.

Kirkland Sweetened Almond Milk

Kirkland’s sweetened almond milk might seem like a good dairy-free alternative, but experts warn that it contains unnecessary added sugars. Many store-bought almond milks contain more sugar than people realize, making them a less healthy choice than expected. Some versions also include thickening agents and preservatives that are not ideal for those looking for a clean, plant-based product. While it is convenient, homemade almond milk is often a better choice since it eliminates additives and excessive sugar. Unsweetened almond milk is a healthier alternative for those who still want a dairy-free option. Some customers also report that Kirkland’s almond milk has an overly sweet taste that does not work well in savory dishes. If you want to enjoy almond milk without the added sugars, checking labels for cleaner ingredients is the best approach.

Chips

Costco sells bulk-sized bags of chips, which can be a tempting purchase, but nutritionists suggest thinking twice before stocking up. These snacks are packed with unhealthy fats, sodium, and artificial flavorings that can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Many people find it hard to control portions when they have a massive bag at home, leading to mindless snacking. The convenience of having a bulk supply can make it easier to eat more than you intend, which can be problematic for those watching their diet. Some brands also use processed vegetable oils that are linked to inflammation and other health concerns. If you enjoy crunchy snacks, air-popped popcorn or baked vegetable chips are better alternatives. For those who want chips, buying smaller portioned bags can help with portion control.

Nutella

Nutella is a popular spread, but experts say it is more of a dessert than a healthy breakfast option. Despite being marketed as a hazelnut spread, it is primarily made of sugar and palm oil, with only a small amount of actual hazelnuts. The high sugar content can lead to energy crashes, weight gain, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed regularly. Some customers also find it overly sweet, making it hard to enjoy in moderation. If you are looking for a better option, making your own chocolate hazelnut spread with real cocoa and natural sweeteners is a great alternative. There are also store-bought versions with cleaner ingredients and less sugar that taste just as good. While Nutella is delicious, treating it as an occasional indulgence rather than a daily staple is the healthiest approach.

Arizona Green Tea

Arizona Green Tea may seem like a refreshing choice, but it is loaded with sugar, making it less healthy than it appears. A single can contains more sugar than a can of soda, which can lead to weight gain and blood sugar spikes. Many nutritionists warn that drinking sugary beverages regularly can contribute to metabolic issues and an increased risk of diabetes. The tea itself is not the issue, but the added sweeteners make it far from a natural green tea option. Some customers also complain that the taste is overly sweet, masking the natural bitterness of green tea. If you want the benefits of green tea, unsweetened varieties or brewing your own at home is a much better choice. There are also lightly sweetened green teas on the market that provide a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.

Kirkland Hot Dogs

Kirkland hot dogs are a favorite at Costco’s food court, but they are not the healthiest option. These processed meats are high in sodium, saturated fats, and preservatives, which can contribute to heart disease and other health concerns. Many experts warn that consuming processed meats regularly has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. While the price and taste make them a popular choice, they are not the best for those looking for a nutritious meal. Some customers also complain about the greasiness, which can make them feel heavy and overly rich. If you still want a hot dog, choosing nitrate-free or organic options can be a slightly better alternative. For a healthier swap, grilled chicken sausages or plant-based hot dogs can offer similar flavor with fewer processed ingredients.

Energy Drinks

Energy drinks at Costco may be a convenient way to get a quick caffeine boost, but experts warn against consuming them regularly. Many brands are packed with high amounts of sugar, artificial sweeteners, and caffeine, which can lead to energy crashes and long-term health risks. Some energy drinks contain as much caffeine as multiple cups of coffee, making them a risky choice for those sensitive to stimulants. Regular consumption has been linked to heart palpitations, high blood pressure, and sleep disturbances.

Frozen Pizzas

Costco’s frozen pizzas may seem like a convenient meal option, but they often fall short in both nutrition and taste. Many frozen pizzas are loaded with sodium, preservatives, and artificial ingredients, making them a poor choice for regular consumption. The crust can be overly thick and dry, while the cheese quality is often lacking, resulting in an underwhelming eating experience. Some customers also complain that the sauce is too sweet or artificial-tasting, making it less appealing than a freshly made pizza. Health experts warn that processed frozen foods like these can contribute to weight gain and high blood pressure over time.

Deli Meats

Costco’s bulk deli meats may be a great deal, but they are not always the healthiest choice. Many pre-packaged deli meats contain high levels of sodium, nitrates, and preservatives, which have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and cancer. Some customers also complain that the texture can be overly processed, making the meats feel rubbery rather than fresh. While the convenience of pre-sliced meats is appealing, they often contain additives that extend shelf life at the cost of quality.

Large Candy Bags

Buying large candy bags at Costco may seem like a good idea for stocking up, but experts warn that bulk sweets can lead to overconsumption. When you have a massive bag of candy at home, it is much easier to eat more than you originally intended. Most commercial candies are packed with high-fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives, which provide little nutritional value. Regularly eating large amounts of sugar can contribute to weight gain, energy crashes, and even an increased risk of diabetes.

Mac and Cheese

Costco sells bulk packs of boxed mac and cheese, but experts warn that these processed meals are not the best choice for a balanced diet. Most store-bought mac and cheese options contain artificial flavors, preservatives, and excessive sodium, making them a highly processed food. While they are affordable and convenient, they lack real cheese and often use powdered cheese substitutes with little nutritional value. Some customers also find that the texture is overly mushy, especially in frozen or boxed varieties.

Costco Desserts

Costco’s bakery section is filled with delicious-looking desserts, but experts caution against making them a regular part of your diet. Many of these desserts, including cakes, cookies, and pies, contain excessive amounts of sugar, refined flour, and artificial ingredients. The oversized portions also make it easy to overeat, leading to a high calorie intake in just one serving. Some customers have complained that certain Costco desserts taste overly sweet or lack the homemade quality found in smaller bakeries.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

More From RetailShout

21 Irresistible New Aldi Foods Hitting Shelves Right Now

Looks like Aldi is bringing some seriously good stuff to the shelves this time. From bold new snacks to easy meal solutions, there’s a little something for everyone.  Read More.

11 Under-$5 Walmart Pantry Staples to Keep You Ready for Anything

Stocking up on pantry staples doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Walmart has plenty of budget-friendly essentials under $5 that can keep your kitchen ready for anything whether it’s a last-minute dinner, a quick snack, or an easy meal prep. Read More.

10 Must-Buy Costco Sale Items Before They’re Gone This February

Costco is known for offering amazing deals, but some of the best ones disappear fast. With February in full swing, now is the time to grab some of the hottest items before they sell out. Read More.