Introduction

As a chef who loves shopping at Costco, there are certain items I prefer to avoid due to various reasons. Here’s a list of things I never buy there and the rationale behind my choices.

Roasted and Salted Nuts

Large bags of roasted and salted nut varieties are a pass for me due to their limited shelf life and potential for attracting cherry pickers.

Husked Corn

Husked corn may be convenient, but I prefer to remove the silk myself for better flavor and crunch.

Oversized Cans of Tomato Sauce

While cost-effective for large gatherings, oversized cans of tomato sauce may lead to leftovers that can be challenging to manage.

Bulk Cereal

Since I don’t go through cereal quickly, I opt for regular-sized boxes from local grocery stores to avoid staleness.

Sour Cream

Given its short shelf life and limited use in recipes, I skip buying multiple quarts of sour cream unless I have a specific plan for it.

Bulk Breadcrumbs

Bulk breadcrumbs can get stale quickly, so I prefer smaller containers where I can add my own seasonings for freshness.

Deli Meats

Sliced deli meats have a brief shelf life once opened, making them a better choice from local delis or butchers.

Frozen and Preseasoned Salmon

Fresh salmon from Costco’s seafood counter is preferable to frozen varieties, which can affect the fish’s texture and flavor.

Shredded-Cheese Blends

I prefer shredding cheese at home for better flavor and freshness compared to pre-shredded blends.

Peeled Garlic

While convenient, pre-peeled garlic tends to be dry and lacking in flavor, so I stick to fresh garlic cloves.

Bulk Baked Goods

Freshness is key for baked goods, so buying in bulk may risk getting pastries that won’t be consumed in time.

Bulk Fruit Containers

Delicate fruits are best bought in smaller quantities to ensure freshness and avoid wastage, especially if they’re already past their prime.

Conclusion

While Costco offers great deals on many items, these products are ones I prefer to skip due to considerations of freshness, shelf life, and overall value for my culinary needs.