Costco is renowned for offering bulk deals and high-quality products, but even this retail giant isn’t immune to customer criticism. Some items leave shoppers dissatisfied due to quality, taste, performance, or value. Let’s explore the top Costco items sparking customer complaints and find out why they’re not living up to expectations.
1. Bananas
Bananas at Costco often draw complaints for being overly ripe upon purchase or ripening too quickly at home. Customers also mention inconsistent quality, with some fruit being bruised or damaged.
2. Kirkland Signature Organic Unsweetened Almond Beverage $9.69/32 Fl Oz
This almond beverage is marketed as a versatile, non-dairy milk alternative for cooking, baking, and drinking.
Nutrition Facts
30 calories per serving
2.5g fat
1g protein
0g sugar
Ingredients
Water
Organic Almonds
Calcium Carbonate
Sea Salt
Prep/Serving Suggestion
Perfect for smoothies or as a coffee creamer substitute. However, customers often complain about its watery texture and lack of flavor.
3. Kirkland Signature Whole Milk $5.29 for 1 gallon
While reasonably priced, this whole milk has received complaints for its shorter-than-expected shelf life and inconsistent freshness.
4. Michelin Guardian+ Beam Wiper Blades $10.99 each
These wiper blades promise streak-free performance but have drawn criticism for their poor durability and subpar effectiveness during heavy rain.
5. Kevin’s Natural Foods Roasted Garlic Chicken $16.99 (32 oz)
This pre-cooked meal features roasted chicken in a garlic sauce, marketed as a quick, healthy dinner option.
Nutrition Facts
150 calories per serving
2g fat
24g protein
4g carbs
Ingredients
Chicken breast
Garlic
Tapioca starch
Vinegar
Prep/Serving Suggestion
Heat and serve over rice or with steamed vegetables. Shoppers frequently complain about the overpowering garlic flavor and overly salty sauce.
6. Kirkland Signature Toilet Paper $23.49 for 30 rolls
This Costco staple has sparked debates for years. While some love the value, others find it too thin and not absorbent enough for their needs.
7. Kirkland Signature Original Spiced Rum $13.99 for 1.75L
This spiced rum is budget-friendly but criticized for its harsh taste and lack of smoothness compared to more premium options.
8. Avocados from Peru
These avocados often receive complaints for their unpredictable ripeness. Shoppers report that they either stay rock-hard or become mushy without ever reaching the perfect stage.
9. Kirkland Signature Platinum Performance UltraShine Dishwasher Detergent Pacs $13.99/115 pacs
These detergent pacs are meant to deliver sparkling clean dishes but often leave residue and water spots on glassware, frustrating customers.
10. Kirkland Signature Burnt Ends Beef Brisket $27.18 (2.5 lbs)
Pre-cooked beef brisket “burnt ends,” ideal for BBQ lovers.
Nutrition Facts
370 calories per serving
29g fat
22g protein
8g sugar
Ingredients
Beef brisket
BBQ sauce
Sugar
Spices
Prep/Serving Suggestion
Heat and serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad. Complaints often center around the meat being overly fatty and the BBQ sauce tasting too sweet.
11. Food Court Fountain Drinks
Costco’s food court drinks are affordable but have recently been criticized for tasting watered down or overly sweet, likely due to machine inconsistencies.
12. Kirkland Signature Pepperoni Pizza $15.99
This frozen pizza is convenient for quick meals, but shoppers complain about its greasy texture and excessive salt content.
13. Kirkland AA/AAA Batteries $18.19 for 48-pack
While affordable, these batteries receive frequent criticism for leaking and having a shorter lifespan compared to major brands.
14. Kirkland Signature Butter Chicken with Naan $18.72 (44 oz)
A ready-made Indian-inspired meal featuring butter chicken and naan bread.
Nutrition Facts
300 calories per serving
12g fat
20g protein
5g sugar
Ingredients
Chicken
Tomato-based curry sauce
Cream
Spices
Prep/Serving Suggestion
Heat and serve as is or pair with steamed basmati rice. Customers complain that the chicken is rubbery and the naan lacks flavor.
15. Cocktail Cucumbers $7.99 for 2 lbs
These mini cucumbers are praised for their convenience but criticized for having an inconsistent texture—often too mushy or watery for snacking.
Final Thoughts
Costco offers excellent deals, but not every product is a hit. While these items may not work for everyone, they still have loyal fans. As always, try new products with an open mind, but keep these common complaints in mind before you buy!
