Controversial Costco Items

Although there are always outliers, some foods seem universally liked (e.g., ice cream) whereas others seem frequently disliked (e.g., anchovies). Then, there are some that I am learning are quite divisive (eg., coconut). Of course, not liking the same food as someone else is not a big deal, I have seen (and participated in) pretty energetic debates about food preferences. It is funny how some people (myself included) seem to take it personally if someone does not like the same items (I’m not talking about because of how someone prepared it). I also remember being embarrassed to have liked some items as a child. I had more grown-up tastes (whereas now I have more kid tastes) and enjoyed goods that my friends did not like (e.g., mushrooms). I would actually deny liking them because I did not want to seem “weird”.

I don’t know of many Costco items that are not looked upon favorably by many because most stores would get rid of these items quickly due to their limited total items. However, there are definitely items that most people enjoy, (rotisserie chickens; meats; cheesecake). There are also items about which members disagree. I was interested in an article highlighting the seven most controversial items in 2024.

7 Most Controversial Food Items at Costco in 2024

1. Kirkland Signature Bagels

There is a lot of disagreement about the quality of the bagels sold at Costco. Many members enjoy them very much. In addition, for those who may not live them, they may be the best option for bagels if there are fewer places to get bagels where they live. In contrast, others (especially New Yorkers) criticize the quality of these bagels. 

I have written before that I am a “bagel snob”. Growing up eating New York bagels, it is hard to appreciate others. However, there is only so much freezer space and therefore only so many bagels that can be transported from New York to Boston at a time.The best alternative my family has found is a frozen brand (I’m serious) called Ray’s Brooklyn Bagels. Although a little pricey, when on sale, we buy as many bags as can fit in the freezer. They cook beautifully in the toaster oven, resulting in a soft inner filling with a crispy outside. Obviously it would be easier to buy them at Costco but we don’t. Even though ithe bagel quality matters a little less if used for toasting than heating whole, they just don’t measure up. 

2. Food Court Pizza

The pizza at the food court is highly debated. Members that like the pizza praise the convenience, the value, and sometimes the taste, as it seems to be as good as they could get at other quick pizza shops. Those who do not like the pizza complain about the grease and overall taste. They are willing to pay more for pizza at other places.

I don’t eat at the food court so I cannot comment on the taste but the pizza is definitely a good deal. Of course, people can get higher quality pizza elsewhere but that would be the case for anything.

3. Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna

Kirkland Signature items tend to get high reviews. People who like the brand’ lasagna appreciate the price, the convenience, and the taste. For many, despite acknowledging that it is not as good as home made or restaurant versions, it is better than most frozen versions. Some say that the quality is high enough that it is worth the slight sacrifice of quality in order to have such a convenient version. In contrast, those who don’t like the item say that it is too greasy, sweet, has too much salt, and does not have a good flavor.

I don’t eat this item but if it were kosher, I would definitely appreciate having convenient frozen lasagna. I used to make lasagna regularly but it does require added time. Therefore, it is helpful to be able to just heat one up. It’s interesting that there is such discrepancy in the reviews of the taste.

4. Food Court Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie

Another food court item that is the source of debate is the new Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie. Those who like these cookies enjoy the buttery flavor, inclusion of two types of chocolate chips (bittersweet and semisweet), and that it is served warm. However, not everyone appreciates this treat. Criticisms include the nutrition statistics, the price, and the overwhelming richness.

Again, I don’t eat at the food court but if I did, I don’t think I’d be able to resist this cookie. I love bakery items and one of my favorites is big, soft chocolate chip cookies. Even better is that this cookie is warm. It is not actually that expensive compared to most bakeries, and likely just sounds pricey when compared to the very inexpensive pizza and hot dogs. With respect to the nutritional statistics, it is a dessert! A large cookie is going to have a lot of calories. If that is a big concern, one can share it or save some for another time. 

5. Kirkland Signature Protein Bars

The article discusses the debate over the Kirkland protein bars. Those who like these bars enjoy the nutrition statistics, and the value. Those who reject the bars tend to dislike the texture and taste. 

I’ve never tried these bars because I don’t generally like protein bars. It is notable that the praise is not about the taste, suggesting that those who eat them may put nutrients above taste. Based on the debate over this item, I am definitely not planning to try these.

6. Kirkland Signature Key Lime Pie

Another debated dessert is the Key Lime Pie. Apparently, some view it as the best version of this pie available in stores. Others claim that it is too dense and lacks the tangy lime flavor they seek, making it too sweet.

I have only had key lime pie once (actually in the Florida Keys). However, it always looks and sounds good to me, especially as my tolerance for sweet has decreased. I’d like to try it but, based on this debate, would not commit to buying the entire pie.

7.Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks

This new chicken product is enjoyed by many. Apparently, those who like it find it as good as it even better than those from fast food restaurants. However, others have several complaints about this chicken, including its texture, the presence of blood spots, undercooked breading, and gristle.

I wouldn’t buy this chicken but it sounds like a problematic item.

Have you tried these controversial items? Where do fall on them?