11 Costco Bulk Buys That Seem Like a Deal (But Aren’t)

Bulk buys make it easy to save money at Costco, but that doesn't mean every multipack, gallon jug, or quart container is a bargain.

Some of these supposed budget-friendly finds backfire, leaving shoppers with more food than they could possibly eat, rotten products, or serious storage issues.

From bakery cookies to chicken bakes, we've rounded up the top bulk buys at this warehouse club that aren't worth the hype.

Editor's note: Prices and availability are subject to change and may vary by location.

Price: $16.49

Costco's chicken bakes are a Food Court gem that customers flock to. Shoppers who expect the frozen six-count to match the quality of the piping hot, prepared pick are in for a disappointment.

Reddit user whopty noted that while this pick is better than a Hot Pocket, "If you compare them to the chicken bakes in the food court, they don't hold a candle to them."

Price: $21.99

This shelf-stable seafood could last months (or longer) in your pantry. And while that may make it seem like a sensible purchase, the problem lies in the price per six-ounce can.

The six-count pack breaks down to $3.67 each. Starkist's five-ounce size is only $1.97 at Walmart. Even though you get more salmon per can at Costco, you'll pay $1.70 for one extra ounce.

Price: $12.43

No one debates the decadently delicious taste of these assorted cookies. But the bakery bulk buy won't stay fresh for long. While 24 sweet treats for under $13 may seem like a deal, it's only a bargain if you plan a party or other large group get-together.

Price: $19.99

Two 10-pound bags of organic unbleached flour for under $20? This bulk buy is a bargain for bakers. That said, if you don't use this pantry product daily, it isn't worth the storage space.

If you're looking for a manageable size, Target sells a five-pound bag of Good & Gather Organic All-Purpose Flour for $5.89. 

Price: $14.06

Four pounds of unsalted butter for $14.06 may seem like a steal. According to information from Oregon State University, once opened, butter only has a refrigerated shelf-life of a few weeks.

Even though you could pay a few cents more per ounce for a smaller one-pound pack, you won't have to worry about spoilage.

Price: $7.93

Shoppers disagree on the quality of this three-pound tub. In a name-brand versus Kirkland Signature comparison, take it from a Redditor who weighed in, "Kirkland is very watery…In my opinion, Fage is better in every way, period."

Price: $20.42

One pound of shredded Parm is the perfect pasta topping for a party-sized pan of baked ziti. Families who only sprinkle this cheese on top of dinner occasionally may need to toss part of the perishable product.

Swap this bulk buy for a six-ounce bag of Target's Good & Gather Parmesan for $1.99. Not only is the size a better fit, but the price per ounce is lower than Costco's larger quantity.

Price: $20.42

Unless you have extra freezer space or a large family, this two-pack of three-pound trays is a waste of storage. Six pounds of meaty lasagna can easily feed a party of people. But empty nesters or anyone who only needs to feed one or two people won't get their money back from this bulk "bargain."

Price: $54.99

A 40-count of frozen burgers is the ideal option for a backyard BBQ bash, but it is not the perfect pick for a small family searching for an economical meal deal.

Plus, if you do need 10 pounds of patties, a similar product from Sam's Member's Mark brand can still save you around $13.

Price: $18.72

Does eight egg, cheese, bacon, and croissant sandwiches for under $20 sound like a great way to save money shopping? Not when you compare it to a brand-name buy. Target sells an eight-count box of Jimmy Dean's sausage-stuffed version for $12.39. Getting the Costco option isn't really a deal, is it?

Price: $3.39 per pound

With most packs weighing in at over eight pounds, this bulk buy is a chore to store. The USDA recommends refrigerating fresh chicken for no more than one to two days. Shoppers without a separate freezer may waste money on poultry that quickly goes past its prime.

Costco is known for bulk bargains, and while these deals help the store's members save money on groceries, the wrong buys could break your budget.

Before you toss pounds of products into your cart, consider your personal preferences and needs to avoid wasting your hard-earned money.