These Costco foods might not be worth buying, according to shoppers

Costco is famous for offering bulk bargains, but not every item is a guaranteed money-saver. Depending on your household size, eating habits, and storage space, some purchases can end up costing more in wasted food than they save at the checkout.

From oversized produce to giant condiment containers, shoppers frequently share which items they skip despite loving the warehouse retailer. Here are a few foods that may not be worth adding to your cart.

Fresh produce

Costco’s fruits and vegetables are often high quality, but the packages can simply be too large for smaller households. Unless you know you’ll finish a large container of berries, salad greens, or avocados before they spoil, buying smaller quantities elsewhere may save money in the long run.

Fresh herbs

Large clamshells of cilantro, parsley, and other herbs are inexpensive per ounce, but many home cooks only need a handful for a recipe. The remainder often wilts before it can be used.

Condiments

Massive bottles of ketchup, mayonnaise, mustard, and salad dressing offer impressive value, but only if your family uses them regularly. Once opened, these products still have recommended shelf lives, making smaller bottles a better choice for occasional use.

Bakery items

Costco’s bakery is a customer favorite, but muffins, croissants, and pastries are sold in generous quantities. Without freezing extras, many households struggle to finish them while they’re still fresh.

Cooking oils

Large bottles of olive, avocado, or vegetable oil can take months to use. Over time, oils may lose flavor and quality, especially if stored in warm kitchens or exposed to light.

Costco remains one of the best places to save on groceries, particularly for pantry staples, frozen foods, and household essentials. But before tossing every bargain into your cart, it’s worth considering whether your household will actually use everything before it expires. Sometimes, paying a little more for a smaller package can lead to less waste—and bigger overall savings.

Links on this page may be affiliate links, for which the site earns a small commission, but the price for you is the same