After ten years of being a loyal Costco member, one savvy shopper has figured out which items are worth buying and which ones are best left on the shelf.
While Costco is renowned for its vast selection and great deals, not everything in their massive warehouse offers quality worth the price. Here are five items that are advisable to avoid based on a decade of shopping experience:
1. Cuisine Adventures Mini Quiche $17.99/72 pieces
These mini quiches, available in three cheese and Florentine flavors, might seem like a convenient option for party snacks, but they are better left unpurchased. The flavors are oddly both muted and overly seasoned, and the crusts are disappointingly greasy rather than flaky as advertised. Instead, the shopper recommends opting for the brand’s frozen spanakopita, which proves to be a much more enjoyable and guest-pleasing option.
2. Butterball Fresh Ground Turkey $21.59/4 (1.7-pound) packages
Although marketed as a healthy alternative to beef, this ground turkey has a mushy texture that becomes tough and overworked after the necessary extended cooking time to evaporate excess moisture. This results in a less than ideal texture and taste for any dish.
3. Kirkland Signature Organic Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Beverage $7.99/6 (32-ounce) cartons
This almond milk option disappoints with its watery consistency and weaker vanilla flavor, especially when compared to other brands like the beloved version from Aldi. For those who use almond milk regularly, the shopper suggests exploring other brands that offer a richer taste and creamier texture.
4. The Spice Lab Organic Dried Basil $4.89/6 ounces
Buying spices in bulk might seem like a smart cost-saving measure, but this large container of dried basil fails to deliver. The flavor is closer to dust than the vibrant, aromatic basil desired in cooking. It is recommended to buy smaller quantities of herbs from stores with higher turnover, ensuring fresher and more flavorful ingredients.
5. Kirkland Signature Premium Sliced Bacon $16.99/4 (1-pound) packages
While this bacon crisps up well, its overwhelming saltiness detracts from the overall enjoyment of the meals it accompanies. Feedback from multiple breakfasts and brunches confirms that both family and guests find it excessively salty, making it a less favored choice at the table.
Navigating the vast product range at Costco can be overwhelming. However, knowing which items to avoid can make shopping trips more successful and satisfying. By following these recommendations, Costco members can ensure they get the best value and quality during their visits.