Costco's Frozen Strawberries Are A Great Buy. Here's Why
As a prominent warehouse retailer that offers amazing deals on bulk goods, many shoppers swear by their Costco memberships and all the benefits they bring. Outside of the great savings, the store also provides some other notable perks, such as a flexible return policy that prioritizes customer satisfaction in almost every instance. While there are a few exceptions (like alcohol), the store generally offers refunds for most items when customers aren't fully satisfied. Then there are the generous free samples, as well as the fully stocked food court, great for a quick yet hearty meal while you shop.
Of course, the massive savings promised by Costco is the biggest draw when it comes to membership. While savings vary greatly from person to person, buying certain items from the grocery chain can result in a yearly savings of 33%, or more than $1,000 on an annual basis as CNET shows. Grocery staples typically offer the biggest savings, provided you and your family have a need for them (otherwise you could lose money on wasted food). Along with goods like pasta, condiments, eggs, and cheese, frozen berries are also a great buy when visiting the store.
A sweet, versatile, and affordable frozen treat
Among the many other great buys that can be found during a Costco trip, the store's private-label frozen strawberries make for an excellent selection. Kirkland Signature Organic Strawberries are available in 3-pound packages for just $9.99, which is a much better bargain than buying fresh. While fresh berries are priced slightly lower, usually about $1.50 to $5 per pound depending on the time of the year you purchase them, it's unlikely you'll be able to eat three pounds before the fruit goes bad. On the other hand, frozen fruits like strawberries can last as long as 10 to 18 months when stored properly.
Along with the great value, having ample strawberries on hand is beneficial in other ways. When it comes to nutrition, Healthline notes that strawberries provide essential minerals and vitamins to support bodily functions like blood pressure regulation and immune system support. Frozen strawberries can also be used in a variety of recipes and preparations, including desserts, smoothies, cakes, pies, and even savory dressings for salad. Overall, it's easy to see why Costco members love the chain's frozen strawberries. However, there are a few items shoppers should avoid buying from the store if they want to make the most of their savings.
Just say no to these Costco products
Costco's private Kirkland brand is known for offering quality products at reasonable prices. However, not all items included in the line meet the normally lofty quality standards. Take the brand's dishwashing gel, for instance. While inexpensive, the detergent didn't hold up to other brands when it comes to cleaning efficiency and stain removal, particularly on pots and pans. When it comes to the paper products available at the store, the quality is there but the savings are lacking. Consider that a 45-count pack of toilet paper at Costco is priced at $28.99, while the same brand is just $16.99 for a 36-count pack at Target.
While not exactly a staple, shoppers can also find better deals on soda elsewhere. Other stores offer reasonable prices for soda based on the belief that these low prices will be offset by other purchases. As a result, it's usually possible to find ultra-cheap soda at a variety of supermarkets, especially in the summer and in conjunction with special events, such as the Super Bowl. That doesn't mean you can't find many great deals at Costco, just that you should be choosy about what you buy from the warehouse retailer.