Calling all Costco lovers! Are you a fan of Kirkland products but want to know which ones are not the best for your health? Whether it’s added sugars, unhealthy fats, or sketchy ingredients you’re concerned about, we’ve done the research to help you make better choices. In fact, we spoke with dietitian experts to learn exactly which unhealthy Costco food products they recommend skipping next time you’re at the warehouse.
When examining a product at Costco, these were the key considerations for choosing items that were less healthy overall:
Get ready to shop smarter and take charge of your well-being with this guide to some of the most unhealthy Costco food items.
Jessie Hulsey RD, an Atlanta-based registered dietitian, explains why these protein bars are considered to be an unhealthy Costco food item. “While Kirkland Signature Protein Bars may seem like a convenient and nutritious snack option, it’s crucial to be aware of their ingredients. The inclusion of erythritol, a sugar alcohol, might raise some concerns. Erythritol is known to cause digestive issues in certain individuals, including stomach discomfort, bloating, and gas.”
“While lasagna can be a delicious comfort food, Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage & Beef Lasagna contains 25 grams of fat and 11 grams of saturated fat in just one serving. Excessive intake of saturated fat has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other health issues. This lasagna dish also contains 720 milligrams of sodium per serving, which is 30% of our recommended daily value. A high sodium intake can lead to elevated blood pressure and potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular problems,” says Hulsey.
“Kirkland Signature Muffins tend to be high in calories, added sugars, and unhealthy fats. These muffins are often larger in size and can contain generous amounts of sugar, refined flour, and added oils. The high sugar content can lead to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Additionally, the refined flour used in these muffins lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains, further reducing their nutritional value. The added oils used in baking can be high in unhealthy fats, which can negatively impact heart health,” says Wan Na Chun, MPH, RD, CPT.
“Kirkland Signature Cheese Pizza, like many commercial frozen pizzas, is often high in calories, saturated fat, sodium, and refined carbohydrates. The crust is typically made from refined white flour, which lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grains. The generous amount of cheese used contributes to the high saturated fat content, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Additionally, processed meats or excessive toppings can add sodium and unhealthy additives to the pizza. Consuming frozen pizza regularly as a significant part of the diet can lead to weight gain and an increased risk of chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems,” says Chun.
*Nutrition facts are not provided online.
Chun continues with her recommendations of unhealthy Costco food to avoid by looking into the prepared foods department. “Kirkland Signature Mac and Cheese contains high levels of saturated fat and calories. The cheese sauce in mac and cheese is made with full-fat cheese, butter, and whole milk, which contribute to the high saturated fat content. Excessive consumption of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease. It is also high in sodium, and excessive sodium can contribute to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke,” says Chun.
Stepping into Costco’s bakery aisle lures you in with their savory smells, and the enticing aroma of freshly baked goods instantly triggers your taste buds. However, these chocolate chip treats from Costco won’t do your health any favors and are definitely considered to be an unhealthy Costco food to avoid. Each cookie packs five grams of saturated fat and 16 grams of sugar, and it’s hard to just have one!
