Trying to Eat Healthier? Try These Costco Items
Many people set New Year’s Resolutions. The second most popular resolution for 2025 is to eat healthier (saving money is first). I don’t set New Year’s Resolutions (not good for perfectionists because it’s too easy to get discouraged upon any “mess up” and feel the need to wait to start over (vs the more helpful strategy of just starting again right then). To help provide some assistance for people trying to eat healthier (and actually, since it’s Costco, likely helps with saving money too), I combined several lists of healthy foods at Costco. Several items overlap with previous posts (Most Highly Rated Snacks at Costco); (Nutritionist-Recommended Snacks to Buy at Costco)).
1. SeaBear’s Salmon Ready to Eat Salmon Variety Pack
This salmon is sold in packs of nine 3.5-ounce pouches in three varieties (Wild Sockeye; Wild Smoked; Wild Pink). It does not require refrigeration and contains protein, Vitamin D, and Omega 3 Fatty Acids.
As is evident from several of my reviews, I love salmon ((Product Review: Foppen Hot Smoked SalmonProduct Review); (Kirkland frozen Atlantic salmon);.(Product Review:Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon)). However, I have never tried tuna or salmon in pouches. I’m not averse to trying them and know they are convenient. However, I cannot see buying these over the other excellent salmon options at Costco.
2. Oikos Triple Zero Blended Greek Yogurt, Variety Pack
One of several yogurt options on the lists of suggested healthy food is this variety pack (Vanilla; Mixed Berry; Strawberry). Each box contains 18 5.3-ounce cartons. The yogurt is high in protein, calcium, and gut-friendly bacteria.
I love yogurt but have only eaten plain yogurt for the last several years. Occasionally I like lemon or lime yogurt but prefer plain. I also find these little cartons unsatisfying. However, I know they are a very convenient option for those who want to bring a snack or a side dish to school or work.
3. Chobani Less Sugar Yogurt, Variety Pack
A similar item to the Oikos yogurt is the Chobani yogurt. It is sold in boxes of 16 5.3-ounce containers in a variety of flavors (Ripe Strawberry; Madagascar Vanilla & Cinnamon; Wild Blueberry; Harvest Raspberry).The yogurt is high in protein, calcium, and gut-friendly bacteria.
See above.
4. Kirkland Signature Organic Greek Yogurt
The third yogurt recommendation is the Costco brand plain yogurt that is sold in the three–pound tubs. It is high in protein, calcium, and gut-friendly bacteria.
Ah, the yogurt I eat multiple times each week (Product Review: Kirkland Organic Greek Yogurt). This yogurt is excellent plain or with granola (Product Review: Kirkland Ancient Grains granola).
5. Kirkland Signature Organic Large Eggs, Cage Free
These eggs are sold in packages of 24 eggs and provide protein, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and zinc.
I still remember when eggs were viewed as an unhealthy food and would never be on this list. My family does buy eggs at Costco (the way to actually be able to afford them these days!) but we buy the non organic white eggs.
6. Kirkland Signature Organic Hard-Boiled Eggs, Cafe Free
A convenient way to get the health benefits of eggs without cooking is these peeled, hard-boiled eggs that are sold in bags containing 16 two-packs. The eggs provide protein, phosphorus, calcium, potassium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium, and zinc.
I am tempted to try these eggs. I like hard boiled eggs plain or in egg salad but don’t like making or peeling them. I still find the concept of buying cooked eggs a little odd but they may be worth a try.
7. Kirkland Signature Organic Chia Seeds
These Chia seeds are sold in three pound bags and contain fiber, protein, and Omega 3 Fatty Acids. They can be added to a variety of foods for a nutritional boost.
Despite reading about the health benefits of chia seeds, I have never bought them. I know they have been in foods I have eaten but I have not added them. They seem like an easy way to get additional nutrients and may be worth a try.
8. Sencha Naturals Everyday Matcha Green Tea Powder
This tea powder is sold in three 13-ounce bags. It contains many antioxidants.
I have certainly read about matcha. How’s, as a non tea drinker, I don’t have interest in this item. For those who do like tea, this seems like a good buy.
9. Fairlife Nutrition Plan, Protein Shake
A recommendation for a healthy beverage are these protein shakes. They are sold in packages of 18 11-ounce bottles, each bottle providing 30 grams of protein and only two grams of sugar.
I wrote a review of this drink (Product Review: Fairlife Nutrition Plan Chocolate Milk) and drink it several times each week. I like both chocolate and vanilla but unfortunately, like so many other items I like (It’s Gone? Discontinued Products), the vanilla is no longer in production. I highly recommend this milk for both the taste and the high protein content.
10. RealGood Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips
These chicken strips are sold in 48-ounce bags and sold exclusively at Costco. They contain twice as much protein as other chicken strips and are low in calories and carbohydrates.
I don’t like chicken too much. Therefore, even if it was kosher, I wouldn’t buy it. However, it seems like a healthy and convenient source of protein.
11. Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks
Another chicken option on the list are these lightly breaded, boneless, and skinless chicken nuggets. The chicken is sold in four pound bags, comes fully cooked, and does not contain antibiotics, hormones, or steroids.
See above.
12. Kirkland Signature Chicken Breasts
Yet another suggestion for a healthy chicken purchase are these boneless and skinless chicken breasts. They come in six pound packages and do not contain added hormones.
See above.
13. Kirkland Signature Rotisserie Chicken
The list of suggestions of healthy chicken options also contains some hat do not require preparation. One is the Rotisserie Chicken, sold in the deli section.
Obviously, these chickens are a famous Costco item (The “Cult” of Costco: How Costco Builds and Maintains Loyalty); (More Costco Facts)). I actually would not have thought of them as a healthy option. They always look greasy. However, I guess that the grease is from the chicken itself rather than added oils or fats.
14. Sukhi’s Chicken Tikka Masala
The final chicken suggestion for healthy eating is this 36-ounce prepared meal consisting of fully cooked white chicken in a creamy tomato curry. It is gluten, antibiotic, preservative, and hormone free.
Again, not for me but it does look like a nice option for people looking for a convenient meal.
15. Pure Protein Bars, Variety Pack
A suggestion for protein bars are these bars that are high in protein, fiber, and calcium and low in carbohydrates and sugar. They are sold in boxes of 23 1.76-ounce bars in a variety of flavors (Chocolate Peanut Butter; Chocolate Deluxe; Chewy Chocolate Chip.)
I have written before about my lack of interest in most protein bars due to my memories of Power Bars, with the thick, sticky texture. However, I am confident that they have vastly improved since then and these flavors sound very good.
16. Kirkland Chewy Peanut Butter & Semisweet Chocolate Chip Protein Bar
Another recommended protein bar are the store brand ones that are high in protein and fiber. The boxes contain 52 1.41-ounce bars.
See above.
17. Mission Carb Balance Low-Carb, High-Fiber Tortillas
A versatile suggestion for healthy eating are these tortillas. They are low in calories and carbohydrates and high in fiber. They can be used as the “bread base” for a variety of meals. The 24-ounce packages contain 16 tortillas.
I have never liked tortillas very much, preferring pita bread instead. However, this item is a great choice for those looking for a healthy tortilla.
18. Costco Clementines
A convenient healthy suggestion are clementines. Sold in five pound bags for $8, these little oranges contain Vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Of course a list of healthy foods should include fresh fruit! I have not eaten a clementine in years. I remember loving them growing up and trying to unpeel them in one piece. I am sure I would still enjoy them but I tend to buy naval oranges because they are larger and therefore a more substantial snack.
19. Honey Crisp Apples
Another fruit suggestion are Honey Crisp apples. They are sold in four pound bags and are high in fiber and Vitamin C.
I love apples. However, despite hearing great things about them, I don’t think I’ve ever had a Honey Crisp apple. I really like crispy apples and have learned that Granny Smith apples tend to retain their crunch longer than others. Therefore, I can buy and store a large bag and eat them for several weeks. I also like the tart taste, despite knowing that they are recommended for cooking vs eating plain. I do remember liking the sweetness of Golden Delicious and Fugi apples, so I think it is probably worth trying honey Crispy as well.
20. Kirkland Organic Signature Applesauce
A recommendation for getting the benefits of apples without worrying about them going bad is applesauce. This applesauce is made from organic apples and Vitamin C and contains no added sugar. Boxes contain 24 3.17-ounce containers.
Although I prefer fresh apples, I do enjoy applesauce on occasion. It is obviously convenient and it also makes a good topping for potato pancakes or a side dish.
21. Kirkland Sunsweet Dried Plums
Another way to get fruit are these prunes that provide disease-fighting phytonutrients, calcium, and fiber. These 3.5 pound bags are shelf stable and provide a convenient snack.
I have written about prunes before and how I like them, despite the “old (constipated) man” association. I still prefer mixed dried fruit because the apples are so good but I would eat all prunes too.
22. Kirkland Signature Turkey Jerky
A recommendation for a low-fat, protein-heavy snack is this jerky, made from turkeys raised without antibiotics. They are sold in 13.5-ounce bags.
Definitely not for me. Even if they were kosher, I don’t find anything appealing about dried meat.
23. Chomps Original Beef Snacks
Another dried meat snack suggested for healthy eating are these beef sticks. They are made from grass fed beef, are low in calories, and high in protein. Packages contain 12 individually wrapped sticks.
See above.
24. Buffalo Style WILDE Chips
Yet another meat-based recommendation are these chips made from chicken, egg whites, and bone broth. They are sold in seven-ounce bags.
See above.
25. Hippea Organic Puffs
A healthy suggestion for a crunchy snack are these puffs that are GMO- and gluten free. They are sold in one pound bags.
I have never tried these puffs but I would like to. I used to really like cheese balls and cheese puffs and would be interested in a snack with a similar texture.
26. PBfit Roasted Peanut Powder
This peanut powder sold in 30-ounce jars is also suggested for healthy eating. It is lower in fat and calories than traditional peanut butter and contains protein. It can be used in a variety of recipes.
I know many people are reluctant to eat nut butters because of the nutritional content. For those who want the flavor of the spread without less fat and fewer calories, this powder is a good option. However, I will stick to the actual nut butter (Product Review:Kirkland organic creamy peanut butter).
27. Kirkland Signature Microwave Popcorn
One of two varieties of popcorn recommended for healthy eating is the store brand microwave popcorn. It is sold in packages of 44 3.3-ounce bags. It is 100% whole grain, low in calories , and high in antioxidant polyphenols.
I have not had microwave popcorn in decades. I remember it being an exciting treat to make with friends for watching movies. (We sometimes ate it at my house but it was more common for my dad to make it in the old fashioned popper. I recently had a memory of my parents popping several batches in the popper for me to put in a big white trash bag to take to a drive in with several friends). It was always a challenge to get most of it popped (who wants too many kernels?) before it burned. I am sure I would still enjoy it but I don’t eat much popcorn and it is too easy to buy it already made.
28. Skinny Pop Popcorn
The second suggested popcorn comes ready-to-eat. The 28 0.65-ounce individual bags contain whole grains and fiber and are low in calories.
I have never eaten this brand of popcorn but am tempted to buy it. However, I would buy a big bag because I like larger servings and would likely be eating it at home and therefore wouldn’t need the convenience of the small bags.
29. Nature’s Garden Organic Trail Mix Snack Packs
For those looking for a convenient, healthy snack, these individual packages of trail mix are a good option. Members can buy 24 1.2-ounce bags in three varieties (Omega Deluxe; Cranberry Health; Heart Health). The mixes contain dried fruit and nuts, providing plant-based omega-3 fatty acids.
These mixed look good. I prefer to make my own mixes so that I can control the ingredients and proportions (I prefer nuts to dried fruit). However, these little bags are good for easy transport.
30. Wonderful Pistachios No Shells Variety Pack
A second nut-based snack suggestion are these individual bags of pistachios. The 24 0.7-ounce bags come in three varieties (Roasted & Salted; Sea Salt & Vinegar; Chili Roasted). They contain protein and essential amino acids.
I like pistachios very much. However, I prefer the ones in shells. In addition, I like the flavor of the nut and do not want added flavor.
31. Kirkland Signature Organic Hummus Single-Serving Cups
Another suggestion for a source of plant-based protein is hummus. The boxes contain 20 2.5-ounce individual containers of hummus. They provide protein and fiber and are low in sugar and saturated fat.
I like hummus a lot but don’t like these little containers. They are certainly convenient for taking places and a good size for kids.
32. BelVita Banana, Dark Chocolate and Sunflower Seed Energy Snack Bites
An additional suggested snack are these energy bites. Members can buy packages containing 20 1.25-ounce individual bags in two varieties (Banana, Dark Chocolate and Sunflower Seed; Blueberry Sunflower Seed). The bites are low in calories and high in whole grains and fiber.
I don’t like sunflower seeds so I am not interested in these bites. However, I can see them being an appealing snack option for many.
33. That’s It Mini Fruit Bars
A fruit-based suggestion for healthy snacking are these dried fruit bars in three flavors (Strawberry; Mango; Blueberry). They come in bags of 24 0.7-ounce bars and are low in calories. They are kosher, gluten free, and do not contain added sugar, additives, or preservatives.
I still have not tried these, despite my interest. Every time I consider buying them, I realize there are few times I would actually choose them over other foods. However, it might be worth a try for a way to carry a healthy, sweet treat with me.
34. Wildbrine Organic Sauerkraut
The 50-ounce jars of Wildbrine Organic Sauerkraut is another healthy option at Costco. The fermented cabbage is a good source of probiotics and can be used in a variety of recipes.
Sauerkraut is definitely an item where the language matters to me. If it is called sauerkraut, I am not interested. If discussed as the base of a health salad and has a few carrots and peppers added to it, I’m all for it. I am tempted to buy it and add some other vegetables and eat it as a side “salad.” I also appreciate that it is sold in a jar. I have seen it sold in bags and find that very unappealing.
35. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey Protein Powder
Although not a good in and of itself, a healthy suggestion for adding to other ingredients is this protein powder. The powder is sold in 5.64 pound jars. It can be added to water or milk to provide a lot of protein.
I have never tried protein powder. It may be worth a try for adding to a shake, soup, or oatmeal. I would want it to be as unobtrusive as possible and therefore would definitely not add it to plain water.
36. Vital Protein Collagen Peptides
A second non-food recommendation for healthy eating are these collagen peptides, sold in 1.5 pound jars. They can be added to liquids and provide collagen and protein with many health benefits (Skin; Hair; Nails; Joints; Bones).Sourced from Grass Fed, Pasture Raised Bovine, they are gluten, dairy, and soy free.
I have read great things about adding collagen to the nutrition regimen. However, most (all?) tend to be from animals and not kosher.
What do you think about this list of healthy foods? Did you make healthier eating a resolution for 2025?

.png)




Comments