Ian Bronson
Costco shoppers know the thrill of discovering a favorite product—until it suddenly disappears. Some items vanish quietly, while others spark outrage among loyal fans. Changing trends, supplier issues, and business decisions all play a role in what stays and what goes. Let’s take a look at 20 popular Costco products that are no longer on the shelves.
Kirkland Signature Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips
Why did Costco discontinue its beloved semi-sweet chocolate chips in 2024? Rising cocoa costs drove the shift to Nestle Toll House options. That left buyers searching for a replacement. While practical for business operations, the move frustrated loyal customers who valued Kirkland’s consistent quality and affordability.
All-American Chocolate Cake
Another discontinued product was the All-American Chocolate Cake in 2020. The decision was tied to shifts in Costco’s bakery range. The cake stood out for its decadent combination of moist layers, creamy frosting, and a signature drizzle. It was crafted with premium chocolate that made it a favorite that will be missed.
Polish Hot Dog
The Polish Hot Dog was loved for its bold, smoky flavor and garlicky profile, which made it sought after in this Big Box Retailer’s food court. In 2018, it was removed to adhere to a menu update. Despite new additions, no comparable item has captured the same loyal following that made this item a barbecue day staple.
Hand-Dipped Ice Cream Bars
Do you remember Costco’s iconic hand-dipped ice cream bars? They were creamy, customizable treats with vanilla ice cream and hand-dipped chocolate coating that were a dessert icon. When they were discontinued in 2013 due to production cost rises, fans missed their combination of chocolate and toasted almonds.
Combo Pizza
The Combo Pizza was known for its hearty sausage, pepperoni, vegetables, and cheese mix. There are a few reasons this made it a standout food court item. In 2020, it was removed as there was a need to adapt to a menu overhaul. While the change may have improved efficiency, it left many customers missing the variety it once offered.
Kirkland Signature American Cheese
What made Kirkland Signature American Cheese a favorite among its members? The five-pound pack of creamy, pre-sliced cheese was perfect for burgers and sandwiches. Market shifts and price battles likely led Costco to pull it from shelves in 2019.
Kirkland Signature Mini Peanut Butter Cups
The Kirkland Signature Mini Peanut Butter Cups disappeared after the manufacturer ceased production, leaving a gap in the snack section. Known for their smooth chocolate coating and creamy peanut butter filling, they were a customer favorite. Dependence on third-party suppliers likely made replacement difficult.
Barbecue Beef Brisket Sandwich
The unforgettable Barbecue Beef Brisket Sandwich gets a noteworthy mention here. This hearty option featured tender brisket and tangy barbecue sauce and was accompanied by a creamy coleslaw, which earned praise. Removed in 2020, its disappearance likely reflected challenges, as its preparation was labor-intensive.
Kirkland Signature Body Soap
Costco’s Kirkland Signature Body Soap was a budget-friendly favorite, known for its gentle formula and great value. Its sudden discontinuation left shoppers guessing, with supply issues or changing demand likely playing a role. Without a private label replacement, its absence left a noticeable gap in Costco’s personal care lineup.
Kirkland Signature Red Grapefruit Cups
Convenience and vibrant flavor made Kirkland Signature Red Grapefruit Cups a favorite among health-conscious members. These ready-to-eat cups, once a must-have for quick breakfasts or snacks, were phased out in 2024. Challenges with supplier package price increases may have ultimately led to their removal.
Mini Cinnamon Rolls
Mini cinnamon rolls were a bakery favorite thanks to their gooey texture and sweet glaze, making them a perfect grab-and-go treat or a breakfast staple. Discontinued in 2024, they were swapped out for new options like mini raspberry cakes as Costco refreshed its pastry lineup to keep things interesting.
Half-Sheet Cakes
Once a staple at potlucks and office parties, Costco’s half-sheet cakes were loved for their large size and budget-friendly price. They made feeding a crowd easy, but Costco later replaced them with smaller, round cakes. The change offered variety, but it also meant fewer cost-effective options for big gatherings.
Food Court Churros
Costco’s churros, with their crispy exterior and cinnamon-sugar coating, were a longtime fan favorite. In 2024, they were replaced by Double Chocolate Chunk Cookies as part of a menu refresh aimed at adding variety. While the change introduced a new sweet treat, it left many churro lovers missing the classic food court staple.
Cinnamon Sugar Pretzels
Costco’s food court once offered cinnamon sugar pretzels, which were loved for their soft texture and generous cinnamon-sugar coating. Discontinued in the early 2010s, they were replaced by churros as part of a menu revamp. The switch likely reflected a move toward simpler, high-demand items that better suited the food court’s fast-paced service.
Kirkland Signature Light Beer
Costco once offered Kirkland Signature Light Beer at an unbeatable price, making it a go-to option for budget-conscious beer drinkers. However, poor customer reviews citing its weak flavor and lack of quality led to its discontinuation in 2018. Costco opted to remove it rather than continue production amid declining sales.
Kirkland Signature Frozen Four-Cheese Ravioli
The Kirkland Signature Frozen Four-Cheese Ravioli was a quick and easy meal packed with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, and asiago cheese. Discontinued over a decade ago, it was never replaced with a similar private-label alternative. The decision aligned with Costco’s efforts to simplify its frozen food selection, leaving fans of the dish without a direct substitute.
Kirkland Signature Country French Bread
In 2024, Costco removed its Country French Bread as part of a bakery update. This crusty loaf, a favorite for soups and sandwiches, was a fast seller. Its discontinuation underscored the challenge of balancing artisanal-style baked goods with the demands of a mass-market operation.
Kirkland Signature Turkey Burgers
Kirkland Signature Turkey Burgers were a high-protein, low-fat alternative to beef patties, gaining popularity among health-conscious shoppers. However, reports of an unappealing texture and an odd aftertaste led to declining demand. Costco eventually pulled them from shelves in the early 2020s, replacing them with alternative lean protein options.
Chocolate Chunk Cookies
Costco’s bakery once featured chocolate chunk cookies, which are loved for their gooey centers and rich chocolate pieces. In 2024, they were replaced by a food court version with a different texture. The switch reflected Costco’s ongoing effort to refresh its offerings and keep customers engaged with new selections.
East Coast Seafood Lobster Roll With Brioche
This pre-made lobster roll served on a brioche bun, brought a touch of affordable luxury to Costco’s deli section. Featuring a pre-portioned serving of lobster salad, it was a convenient seafood treat. Its discontinuation in 2023 likely reflected either lower-than-expected sales or the challenge of sourcing quality lobster at a competitive price.
