8 Items Costco Employees Say They’d Never Buy

When shopping at Costco, many items seem like great deals, but not everything is worth buying in bulk. Employees often have insider knowledge on which products might not be the best choices for your household. Some items, despite their low price, can end up going to waste or may not live up to expectations. From oversized jars to bulk produce, there are several products that employees tend to avoid for practical reasons.

Oversized Mayonnaise Jars

Costco’s oversized mayonnaise jars may appear like a good deal, but employees often avoid them due to their sheer size. Most households do not go through such large quantities of mayo quickly, meaning it can sit in the fridge and expire. After a while, the mayo may lose its freshness and flavor, making it less enjoyable. Additionally, with so many alternatives on the market in smaller sizes, employees prefer more manageable portions that stay fresh. Buying smaller jars from a local grocery store ensures you get the best taste without the risk of waste.

Bananas

While bananas are a staple in many households, Costco employees are wary of buying them in bulk. Bananas tend to ripen quickly, and buying them in large quantities means you might end up with too many overripe fruits. Often, employees recommend buying bananas from smaller stores to ensure better quality and fresher fruit. In large packs, it is harder to manage the rate at which you can consume them. Buying fewer bananas that can be used up before they spoil is a more practical choice.

Strawberries

Costco’s bulk strawberries are another item that employees tend to avoid due to their perishable nature. The large containers often result in waste since strawberries do not stay fresh for long. Even if you manage to eat them quickly, it is difficult to guarantee they will remain in perfect condition once opened. Employees also point out that the quality can vary, with some berries being overripe or already starting to spoil when purchased. Smaller packages from local markets tend to provide fresher strawberries that last longer.

Baked Goods

Costco’s baked goods, especially in large quantities, often miss the mark for employees who avoid them. While the prices are tempting, employees note that the freshness of these products tends to decline quickly, especially if you cannot finish them in time. Additionally, many of the baked goods are processed with preservatives to extend shelf life, which may impact the taste and texture. Employees prefer purchasing from local bakeries, where the goods are often fresher and made with fewer chemicals. This ensures they get a better quality product that stays fresh without the risk of waste.

Soda

Soda at Costco comes in large quantities, which can be a red flag for employees. While the price per can may seem reasonable, buying soda in bulk often leads to waste, especially if it is not consumed in time. Many employees also avoid soda due to its lack of nutritional value and excessive sugar content. Choosing smaller quantities or healthier alternatives is often preferred, especially when it comes to making better beverage choices. Soda’s shelf life is also limited once opened, further increasing the chances of it going to waste.

Large Packets of Meat

Employees frequently avoid Costco’s large packets of meat, which may seem cost-effective at first. However, the size of these packages can lead to waste, particularly if you cannot use it up quickly enough. Some employees find it difficult to store large quantities of meat properly without risking freezer burn. Fresh cuts from local butcher shops or smaller grocery stores are often preferred, as they provide more control over portion size and quality. Purchasing smaller amounts ensures that the meat stays fresh and is used before it spoils.

Kirkland Signature Chicken Bake

Despite the popularity of the Kirkland Signature Chicken Bake, some Costco employees tend to skip it. While it is a fan favorite, employees often find that the frozen nature of the product makes it less fresh compared to other options. Additionally, the large size can be overwhelming, especially for smaller households that cannot finish it in one sitting. Some employees find the calorie content to be quite high, making it an indulgence rather than an everyday item. Choosing lighter, fresher meals is usually the preferred option for those seeking healthier alternatives.

Kirkland Signature Organic Marinara Sauce

While Kirkland Signature Organic Marinara Sauce is a staple for many, some employees avoid it due to the large size of the jar. Most families do not consume such large quantities of marinara sauce before it spoils. Once opened, the sauce needs to be refrigerated and can lose its quality over time. Some employees prefer purchasing smaller jars to ensure fresher sauce with better flavor. Additionally, buying a jar from a local store allows for greater variety and the option to try different flavors or brands.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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