Tasted and Ranked: 7 Costco Snacks From Total Flop to Must-Buy

Costco’s snack aisle can feel like a treasure hunt—you never quite know what you’re going to get. Some items turn out to be pantry staples, while others leave you wondering why you grabbed that bulk-sized bag in the first place. To save you the trial and error, I taste-tested seven popular Costco snacks and ranked them from worst to best. Scroll down to see which ones deserve a permanent spot in your cart and which you can safely skip.

7. Snake River Farms American Wagyu Beef Jerky

Snake River Farms is known for premium-quality meats, and their American Wagyu Beef Jerky promises a gourmet twist on a classic snack. High in protein and made with marbled beef, it’s marketed as tender, savory, and worth the higher price tag.

• Taste and Texture: While the flavor is smoky with a hint of sweetness, the texture was unexpectedly dry and tough—nothing like the melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu experience. The chewiness overpowered the taste, leaving it underwhelming.
• Verdict: More hype than bite. The quality beef is there, but it doesn’t translate well to jerky form.
• Buy or Skip: Skip.

6. Nutty & Fruity Organic Dragon Fruit

This dried dragon fruit snack is organic, naturally sweet, and visually stunning with its vibrant magenta color. It’s advertised as a tropical treat packed with antioxidants and fiber.

• Taste and Texture: While the bright appearance is appealing, the taste is muted—more earthy than fruity. The chewy, leathery texture is a bit dense, making it more work than enjoyment.
• Verdict: Pretty to look at, but not something you’ll crave again and again.
• Buy or Skip: Skip unless you want a novelty snack.

5. Go Raw Sprouted Organic Pumpkin Seeds

These sprouted pumpkin seeds are a healthy, plant-based option loaded with protein, magnesium, and iron. They come unsalted and minimally processed for a nutrient-rich snack.

• Taste and Texture: Crunchy and nutty, they deliver a wholesome flavor but can feel plain without added seasoning. They’re best sprinkled on yogurt, oatmeal, or salads instead of eaten straight from the bag.
• Verdict: Great for nutrition, but not exactly exciting on their own.
• Buy or Skip: Buy if you want a versatile topping—skip if you’re expecting a stand-alone snack.

4. Dot’s Pretzels

Dot’s Pretzels are seasoned twists coated in a savory, buttery blend of spices. These have a cult following and often show up as a crowd favorite in Costco snack hauls.

• Taste and Texture: Crispy and full of bold seasoning, they’re addictively snackable. The buttery, garlicky flavor makes it hard to stop at just a handful.
• Verdict: Not groundbreaking, but a solid, dependable snack that lives up to the hype.
• Buy or Skip: Buy.

3. Catalina Crunch Snack Mix Xtreme Cheddar

This keto-friendly snack mix combines crunchy protein-packed pieces with bold cheddar seasoning. It’s low in sugar and aimed at health-conscious snackers who don’t want to sacrifice flavor.

• Taste and Texture: Cheesy, crunchy, and a little spicy, it checks all the boxes for a guilt-free savory snack. Some pieces are crunchier than others, but overall it keeps things interesting.
• Verdict: A surprisingly satisfying snack that bridges indulgence with nutrition.
• Buy or Skip: Buy.

2. Tillamook Cracker Cuts

Tillamook’s Cracker Cuts feature perfectly portioned slices of sharp cheddar cheese, ready for snacking or party trays. Known for high-quality dairy, Tillamook delivers convenience without compromise.

• Taste and Texture: Rich, tangy cheddar flavor in smooth, firm slices makes these perfect for pairing with crackers, fruit, or even wine. Freshness and portion control are a bonus.
• Verdict: A snack that feels both indulgent and practical, great for entertaining or solo grazing.
• Buy or Skip: Buy—especially if you’re a cheese lover.

1. Bare Organic Apple Chips

Bare Organic Apple Chips are made from simply baked apples with no added sugar or preservatives. Light, crunchy, and naturally sweet, they’re a wholesome take on a classic fruit snack.

• Taste and Texture: Crisp with concentrated apple flavor, they deliver the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. Unlike many fruit snacks, they avoid the chewy stickiness and instead mimic the feel of a chip.
• Verdict: Simple, delicious, and addictively snackable—the kind of bag you finish without guilt.
• Buy or Skip: Buy—these are a must.

Final Thoughts

Costco’s snack lineup is as varied as it is tempting. While not every option lived up to the hype (sorry, Wagyu jerky), others proved to be winners worth stocking up on. Bare Organic Apple Chips took the top spot for their balance of flavor, texture, and healthiness, while Tillamook’s Cracker Cuts and Catalina Crunch Mix also earned solid recommendations. So next time you hit Costco, you’ll know exactly which snacks deserve space in your cart.