12 Things a Seasoned Costco Shopper Skips Every Time

Costco is known for its bulk deals and high-quality products, making it a favorite shopping destination for many. However, not every item on the shelves is worth buying, especially when it comes to certain grocery products. Convenience foods, in particular, can sometimes be loaded with preservatives and artificial ingredients that do not align with a healthy diet. Others may have texture or flavor issues that make them less enjoyable than expected. While Costco offers plenty of great grocery options, seasoned shoppers know which products to skip. Here are some grocery items that might not be the best choice for your next Costco haul.

The Spice Lab Organic Dried Basil

Costco’s spice aisle offers impressive bulk deals, but some items, like dried basil, are not worth the savings. Buying spices in large quantities means they often lose their potency before they can be fully used. This six-ounce container may seem like a great deal, but it quickly turns into a jar of tasteless dust. Unlike fresh herbs, dried basil should be vibrant and aromatic, which is hard to maintain in such a large package. Most home cooks do not go through basil fast enough to justify this bulk purchase. A smaller bottle from a grocery store with frequent turnover ensures better freshness and flavor.

Cuisine Adventures Mini Quiche

These frozen mini quiches may seem like a convenient party appetizer, but they fall short on both flavor and texture. The two available flavors, Three Cheese and Florentine, lack depth and somehow taste both bland and overly seasoned. Instead of a crisp, flaky crust, the pastry ends up greasy and unappealing. While they are easy to prepare, they do not deliver the satisfying bite you would expect from a quality frozen quiche. For a better party snack, Costco’s frozen spanakopita is a tastier alternative. When hosting a gathering, it is worth skipping these quiches and opting for something more flavorful.

Kirkland Signature Organic Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Beverage

For those who love almond milk in their coffee or smoothies, Costco’s Kirkland Signature version is not the best option. Despite being shelf-stable and affordable, it has a disappointingly thin and watery consistency. The vanilla flavor is weak compared to other brands, making it less satisfying in drinks or cereal. Many shoppers prefer almond milk with a creamier texture that blends well with coffee or oatmeal. While it may seem convenient to buy in bulk, this particular almond beverage does not deliver on taste. A better option can be found at other stores, even if it means paying slightly more.

Butterball Fresh Ground Turkey

Ground turkey is a staple in many households, but the Butterball Fresh Ground Turkey at Costco is not worth the buy. The texture is overly mushy, which makes cooking more difficult and results in a tougher final product. Due to its wet consistency, it takes longer to brown, often releasing excess moisture into the pan. The large 1.7-pound packaging is also inconvenient for recipes that call for smaller portions. Unless you are willing to take the extra step of portioning and repackaging it yourself, it can be a hassle to store. Other grocery stores offer ground turkey with a better texture and more practical packaging.

Kirkland Signature Premium Sliced Bacon

Bacon is a breakfast favorite, but Costco’s Kirkland Signature Premium Sliced Bacon is not always the best choice. The quality and consistency can be hit or miss, with some packs containing an uneven fat-to-meat ratio. Many shoppers have noted that it cooks up inconsistently, with some pieces turning crispy while others remain chewy. While buying in bulk may seem like a cost-saving move, the large four-pound pack requires proper storage to avoid waste. Unless you frequently cook large batches, it may be more practical to buy a smaller, higher-quality pack elsewhere. For those who prefer consistently crispy, well-balanced bacon, other brands may be a better option.

Kirkland Signature Granola Bars with Chocolate Chips

These granola bars may seem like a convenient snack, but they are loaded with added sugars like corn syrup, fructose, and invert sugar. The high sugar content can contribute to weight gain, energy crashes, and long-term health issues like diabetes. While they do provide some fiber, the overall nutritional value is low compared to healthier snack options. The combination of sweeteners also increases the risk of cavities and other dental issues. Many shoppers prefer granola bars with whole grains, natural sweeteners, and minimal processing. If you are looking for a better alternative, it is worth checking ingredient labels and opting for bars with lower sugar content.

Kirkland Signature Muffins

Costco’s jumbo muffins are a tempting bakery treat, but they are packed with calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Each muffin is significantly larger than standard portions, making it easy to consume excessive calories in one sitting. They are made with refined flour and processed oils, which lack fiber and essential nutrients. The high sugar content leads to energy spikes and crashes, making them less than ideal for breakfast or snacks. While they may be enjoyable as an occasional indulgence, regular consumption can contribute to weight gain and other health concerns. Shoppers who prefer a healthier option might want to choose whole-grain muffins or homemade alternatives.

Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage & Beef Lasagna

This frozen lasagna offers convenience, but it is high in saturated fat, sodium, and processed ingredients. Each serving contains 25 grams of fat and 720 milligrams of sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure and heart disease. While it may taste good, the heavy use of preservatives and artificial flavors makes it less nutritious than homemade versions. Many shoppers find that the portion sizes are also quite large, leading to overeating. If you are looking for a healthier pasta dish, consider making your own lasagna with lean meat, whole-grain pasta, and fresh vegetables. While this frozen option works in a pinch, it is not the best choice for regular meals.

Kirkland Signature Chicken Bake

The Chicken Bake is a Costco food court favorite, but it is one of the unhealthiest options on the menu. Each serving contains 540 calories, 19 grams of fat, and a staggering 1,370 milligrams of sodium. The high fat and sodium levels make it a poor choice for those watching their heart health or trying to eat balanced meals. While it is a convenient and filling option, it lacks fiber and essential nutrients. Many shoppers find that it is overly greasy and heavy, making it difficult to eat frequently. If you are craving a similar flavor, a homemade version with whole-grain dough, lean chicken, and lighter cheese could be a better alternative.

Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza

Costco’s frozen cheese pizza is an easy meal option, but it is not the healthiest choice. Each serving contains 290 calories, 12 grams of fat, and 600 milligrams of sodium, which can quickly add up if you eat multiple slices. The crust is made with refined white flour, offering little fiber or nutritional value. Many shoppers find that the cheese is overly processed and lacks the rich flavor of higher-quality pizza options. While it can be convenient, there are healthier frozen pizzas available with whole-grain crusts and better ingredient quality. Making your own pizza at home with fresh ingredients is also a great alternative.

Kirkland Signature Mac and Cheese

This ready-to-eat mac and cheese is a popular comfort food, but it comes with a high calorie and fat content. The creamy cheese sauce is made with butter, full-fat cheese, and whole milk, making it heavy on saturated fat. Excessive consumption of these fats can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. It is also high in sodium, which can contribute to high blood pressure if eaten regularly. While it is a convenient meal option, many shoppers prefer homemade versions with healthier ingredients. Using whole-grain pasta and lighter cheese sauces can make for a more balanced and nutritious dish.

Kirkland Signature Protein Bars

These protein bars are marketed as a healthy snack, but they contain artificial sweeteners like erythritol, which can cause digestive issues for some people. While they are low in sugar, they still contain 7 grams of fat and 190 calories per bar, which can add up if eaten frequently. The texture is often chalky, and the taste can be artificial compared to other protein bars on the market. Many shoppers find that whole food protein sources, such as nuts or Greek yogurt, are a better alternative. If you are sensitive to sugar alcohols, these bars may cause bloating or stomach discomfort. Choosing a protein bar with simple, natural ingredients may be a better option for overall health.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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