Close
Photo:
Dotdash Meredith/Lecia Landis
When you head to Costco for your monthly restock, there’s bound to be a mix of staples and exciting new products that pique your interest. But what happens when you take home a tried-and-true bulk buy only to discover that it’s not what you expected? While this may be easier to brush off when you’re dealing with smaller quantities, having an item that doesn’t meet expectations–and lots of it–can be a huge hassle.
This is an issue currently facing Costco shoppers. Customers of the membership-based retailer have noticed that packages of Kirkland Signature Bacon have changed for the worse, citing inconsistencies in thickness and fat content as reasons that ultimately caused them to switch brands.
Here’s what we know about the situation and what you can do if your package misses the mark.
What’s Going On With Costco’s Kirkland Bacon?
In a recent Reddit thread, Costco members discussed the declining quality of Kirkland-branded bacon, which is assumed to be made by Smithfield, the world’s biggest pork producer. While Costco has not confirmed the supplier or acknowledged any recent changes, it’s clear that something is different about the brand—and customers are not happy.
Those who have purchased Kirkland bacon from Costco have specifically called out differences in the thickness, taste, and overall quality.
"I gave them the benefit of the doubt 3 months ago that maybe I got a bad batch. But I've bought their bacon 3 more times since then and every batch has been like this. So paper thin I can't even hold it up without it falling apart," wrote one Redditor.
Other users chimed in with similar issues. "I've experienced both ends of the spectrum in the same package!! Super thin, torn-up pieces in the front, normal strips in the middle, and very thick pieces at the end that cook more like jerky than bacon," said one shopper.
Some believe that the problem is industry-wide. "The wife and I had the same issue with the last 3-pack we bought. Also, general bacon quality has gone downhill recently, though, not just Costco," said one user.
In a separate Reddit thread from last year, customers agreed that Trader Joe’s, Kroger, and Sam’s Club bacon have declined in quality, too.
So, what’s the reason for the shift? Without official word from Costco, we can’t say for sure. However, according to a study from the University of Nebraska, multiple factors influence bacon’s appearance and texture. The diet and body composition of the pig and cut of meat used play a role. Additionally, how the bacon is processed by the supplier, including slicing, seasoning, and curing, determines the final result as well.
Other Costco Bacon Options
If your latest packages of Kirkland Signature Bacon have missed the mark, you don’t have to go without your weekly BLT or bacon cheeseburger. Here are some ways Costco members are handling the issue:
- Get a refund: According to Costco’s refund policy, the store guarantees satisfaction and will refund the purchase price for the majority of its products. Simply take the bacon and proof of purchase to your store for a refund or exchange.
- Try Kirkland Signature Thick Sliced Bacon: Many shoppers swear by this alternative. Some people have said that, lately, this option has been hit or miss, too. However, overall most agree the quality is much better in comparison.
- Slice your own: One person suggested making your own bacon with pork belly. “I smoked a Costco sale pork belly and cut my own bacon strips, I don’t think I can go back,” they said. While this option does require buying a meat slicer, it’s a good long-term investment. Plus, you can use it to slice fresh deli meat at home, furthering your savings.
- Shop somewhere else: Those looking for top-notch quality may find a better selection at a local butcher or a grocery store that slices bacon fresh each morning.
Next time you shop for bacon at Costco, be sure to carefully inspect the package before buying it. Look for differences in slice thickness and pay attention to the meat-to-fat ratio. Plus, always check the best-by date.
However, if you do get a package of “cobweb”-style bacon and don’t feel like returning it, you can always toss it in the oven, then crumble it to use in your next baked potato bar, brunch casserole, or batch of bacon cheddar patty cakes.
Was this page helpful?
Thanks for your feedback!
Tell us why!
Other
Submit
