11 Unforgettable Costco Recalls That Had Everyone Talking

Over the years, Costco has faced recalls for all sorts of reasons. Some of these incidents were small and quickly resolved, while others stretched across multiple states and affected thousands of customers. In many cases, Costco’s swift action and transparency helped limit the damage and keep shoppers safe. Still, each recall serves as a reminder that even trusted brands can have an off day. Here are some of the most memorable Costco recalls that had shoppers talking for all the wrong reasons.

Yogurt Mislabeling Allergen Recall

In 2023, Costco had to recall its Ellenos Real Greek Vanilla Bean Yogurt due to a serious labeling mistake. The affected yogurt cups actually contained lemon curd flavor, which included undeclared eggs. This was a big problem for people with egg allergies who thought they were buying a safe product. The recall applied to 12-packs of the yogurt sold at Costco, and the store worked fast to remove them from shelves. Customers were understandably confused when they opened their yogurts to find a completely different flavor. Thankfully, no allergic reactions were reported as a result of this mix-up. It was a reminder of how even small mislabeling errors can cause major food safety concerns.

Crepe Discoloration Quality Recall

At the start of 2023, Costco recalled its Kirkland Signature Chocolate Crepes due to unexpected discoloration. The crepes, sold between August and December 2022, looked off-color and did not meet the store’s quality standards. Although Costco confirmed it was not a food safety issue, the appearance worried customers. The recall was purely precautionary to maintain the brand’s reputation for consistency. Some shoppers feared the crepes might be undercooked or spoiled, but that was not the case. The company reassured customers that refunds would be available. Even though it was harmless, the incident reminded shoppers how much appearance influences trust in a product.

Black Bean Seal Issue

In 2021, Costco had to pull certain cans of S&W Black Beans and Chili Beans from shelves. The issue stemmed from compromised seals that could let air inside the cans. When the seal is broken, bacteria like Botulism can grow and make food unsafe. The initial recall covered a few product lots, but it expanded after further inspection. Faribault Foods, the manufacturer, recalled even more lots once the problem appeared more widespread. The company wanted to ensure that no unsafe cans remained in circulation. Though no illnesses were reported, this recall highlighted how critical proper sealing is for canned foods.

Cold Brew Metal Contamination

In 2023, Costco recalled its Kirkland Signature Colombian Cold Brew Coffee after discovering potential metal contamination. The recall affected about 2.7 million cans across 13 states. Metal fragments may have entered the cans during production, likely due to damaged machinery. The contamination was considered a serious physical hazard, prompting Costco to act fast. While unsettling, the good news was that no injuries were reported. Customers were urged to return their cold brew for a refund. It was one of Costco’s larger beverage recalls in recent memory, reminding everyone that even simple drinks can face unexpected quality issues.

Chicken Salmonella Scare Recall

In 2014, Costco recalled a wide range of chicken products made by Foster Farms due to a Salmonella outbreak. The bacteria had caused hundreds of illnesses nationwide, and Costco acted to prevent further spread. The contaminated chicken was produced over six days and sold in several grocery chains, not just Costco. The recall affected massive quantities of stock and caused major disruptions. At the time, it was one of the longest-running Salmonella outbreaks in the country. Thankfully, no deaths were reported, though many people were hospitalized. The incident reinforced how dangerous Salmonella contamination can be in poultry products.

Kirkland Vodka Taste Complaint

In 2023, Costco issued a notice regarding its Kirkland Signature vodka due to customer complaints about the flavor. Shoppers reported that certain lot numbers had an unusual, unpleasant taste. The company said the vodka did not meet its “expected profile,” meaning it tasted off from the normal batch. Some speculated the vodka may have been stored in containers that previously held other spirits, like rum. Costco urged anyone with the affected bottles to return them for a refund. While it was not a health concern, it certainly disappointed loyal Kirkland vodka fans. The recall showed that even small flavor changes can damage a product’s reputation for quality.

Chicken Patty Plastic Recall

In 2022, Foster Farms chicken patties sold at Costco were recalled due to pieces of hard plastic found inside. Customers had complained about discovering clear plastic fragments in their patties after cooking them. The Food Safety and Inspection Service determined that the pieces could be sharp enough to cause injury. Because Costco sells in bulk, the recall ended up covering around 148,000 pounds of product. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, but the discovery was unsettling. Costco worked quickly to pull the affected patties from stores and notify customers. It served as a good reminder of the risks that come with large-scale food production.

 Spoiled Kirkland Walnut Recall

In 2022, Costco recalled 3-pound bags of Kirkland Signature Shelled Walnuts that turned out to be spoiled. Customers noticed the nuts had a rancid odor and off taste, indicating they were no longer fresh. Several best-before dates were affected, making it tricky to identify every bad batch. While spoiled walnuts are not typically harmful, they taste terrible and waste customers’ money. The issue seemed to stem from improper storage or aging inventory. Costco offered refunds and removed all questionable stock from stores. Shoppers were disappointed, but relieved it was a quality issue and not a health threat.

Strawberry Hepatitis A Recall

In 2023, Costco recalled certain lots of its Kirkland Signature Frozen Organic Strawberries over hepatitis A concerns. The berries were linked to a wider outbreak under investigation by health officials. Though no virus was found directly on Costco’s strawberries, the recall was done out of caution. The affected lots were mostly sold in California and Hawaii. Because frozen berries can carry viruses for months, Costco acted fast to prevent risk. Customers were advised to discard or return their bags for refunds. It was a smart move that helped protect shoppers from a potentially serious illness.

Rotisserie Chicken E. Coli

In 2015, Costco’s popular Rotisserie Chicken Salad was linked to an E. coli outbreak across several western states. The salad was made by Taylor Farms Pacific using Costco’s own rotisserie chicken. In total, 19 people became sick, with five hospitalized and two developing kidney complications. The company immediately recalled all chicken salad products nationwide to stop the spread. Tests could not pinpoint which ingredient caused the contamination. While no one died, it was one of Costco’s more serious food-related incidents. The recall showed how quickly bacteria can spread even through prepared foods that seem safe.

Ground Beef E. Coli

Back in 1998, Costco faced a major recall involving its frozen ground beef due to E. coli contamination. A woman in New York fell seriously ill after eating the beef, prompting a full investigation. The contamination was confirmed, and 172,000 pounds of meat were recalled across 24 states. This was especially damaging because the beef was a Kirkland Signature product, not a third-party brand. Costco received numerous calls from concerned customers trying to confirm if their packages were affected. The company took swift action to protect public safety. It became one of the earliest large-scale recalls in Costco’s history and a major learning moment for the brand.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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