Costco is known for its bulk savings, high-quality Kirkland Signature products, and cult-favorite food court items. However, not all products have the same fanfare. Every year, certain Costco items spark strong debates among customers, often dividing opinions over taste, texture, nutritional content, and even preparation methods. Here are the seven most controversial Costco items in 2024, with some customers singing their praises while others are ready to pass.
1. Kirkland Signature Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna $13.99/6 lbs, 96 oz
Once a beloved freezer staple, Kirkland’s Italian Sausage and Beef Lasagna has recently faced criticism due to a perceived decline in flavor. Some shoppers claim the lasagna is now too bland or lacks the boldness it once had, while others still praise it for its convenience.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 15g
- Carbs: 24g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 19g
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Italian sausage
- Tomato sauce
- Mozzarella and ricotta cheese
- Lasagna noodles
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Remove lasagna from packaging and cover with foil.
- Bake for 70-75 minutes, remove foil, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
What Customers Say
Pro: “Still my go-to for a quick family meal. The cheese is always perfectly melted, and the serving size is generous!”
Con: “The flavor has definitely gone downhill. It’s much less savory than before.”
2. Food Court Double Chocolate Chunk Cookie $2.49/cookie (5 oz)
This giant cookie from Costco’s food court is undeniably rich, but it’s also divisive. While some can’t get enough of the decadent chocolate chunks, others find it overwhelming due to its extreme sweetness and calorie load.
Nutritional Facts (per cookie)
- Calories: 430
- Fat: 23g
- Carbs: 56g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 34g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
- Flour
- Sugar
- Cocoa powder
- Chocolate chunks
- Butter
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
What Customers Say
Pro: “Chocolate heaven in a cookie! It’s big enough to share, and it’s super rich.”
Con: “Way too sweet for me. I couldn’t finish it without feeling sick.”
3. Kirkland Signature Bagels $7.99/12 ct
Once a fan-favorite bakery item, Costco’s bagels have become a point of contention. Some customers argue that the texture has become too dense and dry, while others insist it’s the best bang for your buck for breakfast bread.
Nutritional Facts (per plain bagel)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 2g
- Carbs: 58g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients
- Wheat flour
- Water
- Yeast
- Salt
Preparation Instructions
Toast or enjoy as is.
What Customers Say
Pro: “I love that these bagels are soft and flavorful. Plus, they freeze really well!”
Con: “They’ve become too chewy and dry compared to how they used to be.”
4. Food Court Pizza $9.95/whole pizza (18 in)
Costco’s food court pizza has always been a classic, but lately, some customers have complained about inconsistency. While some find it to be the best cheap pizza option around, others have expressed frustration over overly greasy slices.
Nutritional Facts (per pepperoni slice)
- Calories: 710
- Fat: 32g
- Carbs: 68g
- Sodium: 1560mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 34g
Ingredients
- Dough
- Pizza sauce
- Mozzarella cheese
- Pepperoni
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
What Customers Say
Pro: “Best deal for pizza! It’s cheesy, loaded with toppings, and perfect for sharing.”
Con: “It’s so greasy now—I can’t even eat one slice without a napkin.”
5. Kirkland Signature Protein Bars $23.99/20 bars, 2.12 oz each
The high protein, low sugar formula of these bars makes them popular among fitness enthusiasts. However, the texture and flavor are divisive, with some customers finding them too chalky or artificial-tasting.
Nutritional Facts (per bar)
- Calories: 190
- Fat: 7g
- Carbs: 23g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Dietary Fiber: 15g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients
- Protein blend (whey and milk proteins)
- Soluble corn fiber
- Almond butter
- Cocoa butter
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
What Customers Say
Pro: “The perfect snack to keep me full and energized post-workout.”
Con: “The texture is awful. It’s like chewing on chalk.”
6. Kirkland Signature Key Lime Pie $16.99/pie (68 oz)
Costco’s Key Lime Pie has long been a summer favorite, but this year’s version has sparked some strong feelings. Many feel it’s lost its signature tartness, making it too sweet and artificial compared to previous versions.
Nutritional Facts (per slice)
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Carbs: 46g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crust
- Lime-flavored filling
- Whipped topping
Preparation Instructions
Ready to serve.
What Customers Say
Pro: “It’s creamy, rich, and the perfect summer dessert. I could eat the whole pie!”
Con: “This year’s version is too sweet. I miss the tartness it used to have.”
7. Kirkland Signature Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Chunks $16.99/4-lb bag (64 oz)
Touted as a Chick-fil-A dupe, these chicken chunks have seen mixed reviews. Some love the convenience and flavor, while others complain that they’re too dry or lacking in seasoning.
Nutritional Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 9g
- Carbs: 14g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 0g
- Protein: 16g
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Bread crumbs
- Seasoning blend
Preparation Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Bake for 18-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
What Customers Say
Pro: “These are awesome in the air fryer! Perfect for a quick meal.”
Con: “They’re way too dry and don’t have nearly enough seasoning.”
Final Say
Costco’s offerings are always diverse, and it’s this variety that fuels strong opinions from customers. Whether it’s a change in flavor, inconsistent texture, or simply personal preferences, these seven controversial items have sparked debate in 2024. Some items remain beloved by loyal fans, while others are seen as falling short of expectations. One thing’s for sure—Costco’s most polarizing products keep customers coming back, whether to rave about or reconsider their next purchase.
