Costco is a great place to score bulk deals on a wide variety of groceries, but not every item on the shelves is worth buying in large quantities. Whether due to spoilage, practicality, or cost-effectiveness, some items are better purchased elsewhere. Here are five groceries you should think twice about before adding to your Costco cart—and why they might not be the best choice for your household.
1. Bagels
Costco’s bagels are delicious and come in bulk, but unless you have a large family or eat bagels daily, you might struggle to finish them before they go stale. While they are great for freezing, the quality can sometimes diminish when thawed.
Why Skip It
- Large quantity can lead to staleness before finishing
- Frozen bagels may lose quality over time
- Better to buy smaller quantities from a local bakery
2. Seasonal Items
Costco offers a variety of seasonal grocery items, from holiday-themed snacks to limited-edition treats. While it’s tempting to stock up, these items are often only available for a short time, and buying in bulk might mean you’re stuck with leftover seasonal goods that lose their appeal after the season ends.
Why Skip It
- Limited appeal once the season ends
- Potential for over-purchasing and waste
- Often better to buy in smaller quantities during the season
3. Some Fresh Produce
While Costco’s fresh produce is often high quality and affordable, buying in bulk can be a mistake if you don’t consume it quickly. Fruits and vegetables have a limited shelf life, and you may find yourself throwing away more than you eat, especially if you live in a smaller household.
Why Skip It
- High risk of spoilage before use
- Not practical for smaller households
- Better to buy in smaller, fresher quantities as needed
4. Canned Goods
Canned goods are a pantry staple, and Costco offers them in bulk at great prices. However, unless you use them regularly, buying large quantities can take up unnecessary space and may not save you as much as you think. Plus, they often have a long shelf life, making it easier to overstock.
Why Skip It
- Bulk purchases can lead to overstock and wasted space
- Savings might be minimal compared to smaller quantities
- Consider buying only what you need from a regular grocery store
5. Cereal
Costco’s bulk cereal boxes offer a good deal, but unless your household goes through cereal quickly, it can go stale before you finish the box. Plus, buying large quantities limits variety, and you might find yourself stuck with a flavor you’re tired of.
Why Skip It
- Cereal can go stale before finishing the large box
- Limits breakfast variety
- Smaller boxes from the grocery store may be more practical
Conclusion
While Costco is a haven for bulk savings, some groceries are best avoided or purchased in smaller quantities elsewhere. Bagels, seasonal items, fresh produce, canned goods, and cereal can often lead to waste or lack of variety, diminishing the value of your purchase. By making smarter choices about what you buy in bulk, you can enjoy all the benefits of Costco without the drawbacks.
