Hi friends! If you’re anything like us, you know that trying to eat healthy and stick to a budget in 2025 feels like a wild adventure. Grocery costs have absolutely exploded, and navigating the aisles for truly nutritious options can sometimes feel like a treasure hunt. But guess what? Your beloved Costco, the land of colossal savings and endless possibilities, is actually a hidden gem for healthy eating, and we’re here to spill all the tea on the best finds!
Seriously, when you think “healthy grocery store,” your mind might jump to places like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. But Costco? They’ve made incredible strides in offering a wide variety of organic and healthy foods, often at unbeatable prices. As a nutritionist who shops there regularly, I absolutely love how it makes eating healthy so much easier without blowing your budget. They’ve got a great selection of organic fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and whole grains that I typically recommend to my clients. Plus, many of their products are free from artificial ingredients, which is a huge win if you’re focused on clean eating!
So, get ready to supercharge your shopping cart and your health without emptying your wallet. We’ve combed through the vast warehouse to bring you our top 15 healthiest items you can buy at Costco right now, with all the latest updates for 2025! These aren’t just good; they’re *great* options that help you build muscle, boost your health, and keep that cumulative toxin load in check. Let’s dive into the first seven must-haves that will make your healthy eating journey a breeze and surprisingly affordable!
1. **Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts, Unsalted (2.5 lb. bag)**First up on our list of healthy Costco heroes is this colossal bag of Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts, and trust us, you should absolutely go nuts for this! This incredible mix features a delightful blend of almonds, cashews, pecans, and pistachios, offering a powerhouse of nutrition in every handful. It’s the perfect snack to take a sledgehammer to hunger, thanks to its beneficial fats, protein, and fiber.
Not just for snacking, these unsalted gems are incredibly versatile. Toss them on your morning oatmeal for an extra crunch, sprinkle them over salads for added texture and healthy fats, or stir them into your yogurt for a satisfying boost. Research even suggests that when men add tree nuts like almonds and pecans to their diets, they may experience improvements in blood lipid and insulin levels, which could significantly benefit heart health.
One of the best parts? This fantastic option allows you to sidestep all the added salt found in most nut mixes. Plus, at a very reasonable $15 for 2.5 pounds, it’s an absolute steal! To make sure your precious nuts stay fresh for as long as possible, it’s a smart idea to store some of them in the freezer if you don’t plan on polishing off the entire bag quickly. Talk about a budget-friendly and heart-healthy win-win!
2. **Bob’s Red Mill Organic Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats (7 lb. bag)**Say goodbye to those sugary boxed cereals and hello to a hearty, satisfying breakfast with Bob’s Red Mill Organic Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats! This massive 7 lb. bag offers all the goodness of traditional steel-cut oats but without the lengthy cooking time, making it a perfect quick-cooking solution for busy mornings. And get this: it’s just 13 cents per ounce, which is an incredible value for such a nutrient-dense food.
Unlike many breakfast options laden with added sugar, these oats provide a clean slate for a healthy start to your day. The science behind oats is truly fascinating; the soluble fiber they contain is pure wizardry for helping improve cholesterol numbers. This is a game-changer for anyone looking to support their heart health naturally.
Here’s another compelling reason to retire those packets of instant oatmeal for good: a research review published in the Journal of Nutrition showed that post-consumption blood sugar and insulin responses are better after eating lesser processed forms of oats like steel-cut, compared to more processed rolled or instant oat flakes. This suggests that maintaining the structural integrity of the oat kernel through minimal processing offers superior glycemic benefits, meaning a more stable energy release and fewer sugar spikes. So, grab a bag and start your day the smart, healthy way!
3. **Kirkland Signature Protein Bar, Variety Pack (Box of 20 bars)**If building muscle efficiently and affordably is on your radar, then the Kirkland Signature Protein Bar Variety Pack is about to become your new best friend. At just over a dollar a bar, these are seriously budget-friendly protein powerhouses! Each bar is packed with an impressive 21-22 grams of protein and a generous 10 grams of fiber, all while keeping the added sugar to just a few grams. That’s a pretty stellar nutritional profile for a convenient protein bar, don’t you think?
Clocking in at a sensible 170 to 180 calories, these bars are perfectly portioned for a guilt-free snack that genuinely fills you up. Whether you’re hitting the gym, needing a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or just trying to boost your daily protein intake, these bars have got your back. They’re designed to be a convenient way to fuel your body and support your fitness goals without breaking the bank.
And let’s not forget about the flavors! The chocolate peanut butter and cookies and cream varieties are designed to delight your palate, making healthy eating feel like a treat rather than a chore. These bars are an economical bonanza for anyone looking to pack on muscle and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Stash them in your gym bag, desk drawer, or car for a ready-to-go protein hit whenever cravings strike.
4. **Chosen Foods, 100% Pure Avocado Oil (2 L. bottle)**Move over, seed oil debates, because Chosen Foods 100% Pure Avocado Oil is a kitchen staple that everyone can embrace! This neutral oil is incredibly versatile, making it a go-to for pretty much any culinary endeavor. Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, whipping up salad dressings, crafting delicious sauces, or even baking, this oil can do it all. It’s truly a kitchen workhorse, and I often reach for it in place of butter for cooking.
What makes avocado oil so fantastic? It primarily contains monounsaturated fat, which is widely considered more beneficial for heart health than other types of fats. This makes it a smart choice for cooking that supports your cardiovascular well-being. Knowing you’re using an oil that’s good for your heart while delivering on flavor and performance is a major win in our book!
While avocado oil can sometimes be a bit pricey at regular grocery stores, buying this brand in a larger 2 L. bottle from Costco is a brilliant way to significantly bring down the costs. The author of the context mentions that Costco recently brought in some generic avocado oil in a glass bottle, which is even better for reducing plastic exposure, though they sometimes buy the plastic version, too. It’s all about making informed cost/benefit decisions. This bulk purchase ensures you have a consistent supply of a high-quality, healthy cooking oil, making it easier to prepare nutritious meals at home.
5. **Seeds of Change, Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice with Garlic (Box of 6 pouches)**Let’s be real, most days, we’re all on the hunt for ways to get a delicious and healthy meal on the table with less effort and time. Enter the Seeds of Change Organic Quinoa and Brown Rice with Garlic! These microwavable pouches are an ultimate meal prep shortcut, perfect for those moments when you need a nutritious side dish or a quick meal base without the fuss. It’s all about making healthy eating convenient without sacrificing quality.
These pouches are fantastic as a simple, flavorful side dish alongside your favorite protein and veggies. But here’s a pro tip: dump the nuked grains into a bowl and top them with hunks of meat, a medley of colorful vegetables, and a delicious sauce for a satisfying and complete meal any day of the week. It’s a versatile foundation that allows for endless culinary creativity, even on your busiest evenings.
While it’s true that these grains are high in carbs, the key here is that they are *whole* grains. Research suggests that consuming whole grains like quinoa and brown rice can be protective against developing diabetes by helping improve blood sugar numbers. They provide the essential fiber and rich micronutrient composition that you simply won’t get from refined grains. This means you’re fueling your body with sustained energy and vital nutrients, making them a smart and efficient choice for your healthy Costco haul.
6. **Kirkland Signature Organic Peanut Butter (2 28-oz jars)**Prepare yourselves, because Kirkland is coming to the rescue again with a truly pure pleasure: their Signature Organic Peanut Butter! With Costco offering a two-jar pack of this creamy deliciousness for a smooth $13, you can have one of life’s most satisfying spreads readily available. As many of you know, peanut butter can be a sneaky source of added sugar and not-so-great palm oil, depending on the brand you pick. But fear not, this Kirkland gem is a clean winner!
Thankfully, this peanut butter is simply made with just peanuts and a little sea salt, ensuring a healthier spread without any unnecessary additives. The author specifically notes, “I buy the organic because it’s just peanuts and salt, not because it’s organic.” This means you’re getting pure, unadulterated peanut goodness. Because peanuts are technically a legume, peanut butter often provides more protein compared to spreads made from tree nuts like almonds or cashews, giving you an extra muscle-building boost.
Once opened, make sure to keep these jars of deliciousness in the fridge to maintain their freshness. With this convenient source of healthy fats and plant-based protein on hand, you can elevate your toasts, stir it into your oatmeal, blend it into protein shakes, or even use it in your baked goods for a wholesome twist. And let’s be honest, sometimes a spoonful straight from the jar is exactly what the doctor ordered (if you’re okay with those extra calories, of course!).
7. **Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Stick Minis, Original (Bag of 28 sticks)**It’s time to embrace your inner adventurer with these fantastic Country Archer Grass-Fed Beef Stick Minis! These two-bite meat sticks are an absolute game-changer when it comes to convenient, high-quality protein. Jerky is widely recognized as one of man’s best friends for packing on muscle, but let’s face it, the parched meat has become downright costly. That’s where Costco and Country Archer swoop in to save the day!
This generous bag of mini sticks, priced at a reasonable $20, is made from grass-fed beef, helping to keep your healthy snacking costs down. Each stick delivers a satisfying 4 grams of savory protein, making them a perfect option for when you just need a little bit of that satisfying, meaty goodness. They’re ideal for curbing cravings between meals without overdoing it, offering a lean protein hit that supports your fitness goals.
Seriously, these are a must-have for anyone on the go. Stash a few in your car for those sudden hunger pangs, keep some at your work desk for a quick and easy protein boost, or toss them in your bag for an energizing snack. Plus, a huge bonus: they are made with no added sugar, which, believe it or not, is rarer than you’d think in the dried meat world. It truly feels almost criminal to walk out of Costco without a bag of these in your oversized cart!
Alright, friends, we’ve powered through the first seven fantastic finds at Costco, but hold onto your oversized carts because we’re just getting warmed up! Get ready to dive into the next wave of healthy heroes that will round out your shopping list and make your health journey even more delicious and wallet-friendly. We’re talking powerful proteins, gut-loving fermented foods, wholesome grains that keep you going, and fresh produce that won’t break the bank. Let’s unbox the remaining eight top healthy Costco picks that are absolute game-changers for 2025! Get excited, because your pantry is about to get a major glow-up!
8. **Kirkland Signature, Wild Alaskan Pink Salmon (6 6-oz cans)**When it comes to hitting the trifecta of affordability, convenience, and downright amazing nutrition, you simply cannot beat a can of wild Alaskan pink salmon. Seriously, this swimmer comes with a boatload of nutritional benefits, making it an absolute pantry powerhouse! It’s super easy to stash away for quick meals or emergencies, and it delivers a serious punch of goodness when you need it most.
Each can is packed with about 34 grams of muscle-building protein, which is fantastic for fueling your body and keeping you feeling full and satisfied. Beyond that, it’s swimming in mega-healthy omega-3 fats, those essential nutrients that are pure wizardry for your brain and heart health. Plus, you’re getting a good dose of B vitamins and that hard-to-get vitamin D, which is crucial for so many bodily functions.
And here’s a little bonus: choosing canned salmon often means less risk of going overboard on mercury compared to some canned tuna options. At Costco, you can snag a 6-count package for only $17.99, which makes this cost-conscious seafood an absolute steal. It’s Kirkland to the rescue again, helping you enjoy high-quality protein without making your wallet weep!
9. **Kirkland Signature, Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums (3.5 lb. bag)**If your sweet tooth is calling but you’re trying to keep things clean, then look no further than these glorious Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums! These little gems are crazy sweet, and get this: there’s absolutely no added sugar, making them nature’s candy in the best possible way. They’re a fantastic way to satisfy those cravings without any of the processed stuff.
But these dried plums (also known as prunes, for those who prefer the classic name) are so much more than just a sweet treat. They come loaded with high amounts of health-hiking antioxidants, which are like tiny superheroes fighting off damage in your body. Plus, they pack a generous dose of dietary fiber, which is essential for, well, keeping things moving smoothly.
Speaking of smooth moves, yes, dried plums are famously known for their ability to keep your digestive system on a regular schedule – no more guessing game for your No. 2! They’re also a great source of potassium, helping you add more of this vital mineral to your diet to keep those blood pressure numbers in the safe zone.
At just $12 a bag, this is seriously less costly fruit nutrition than many out-of-season fresh options that can be crazy expensive at this time of year. A few dried plums can be an energizing pre-workout snack, but you can also simmer them with your morning oatmeal, add them to a variety of stews, slice them up for yogurt or cottage cheese, blend them into protein shakes for some recovery carbs, or even use this naturally sweet dried fruit as a smart replacement for some of the added sugar and fat in your baked goods. Talk about versatile!
10. **Kirkland Signature Whey Protein, Creamy Chocolate (5.4 lb. bag)**Alright, fitness fanatics and muscle builders, listen up! If you’re looking to go big on whey protein to build muscle and save some serious cash, this is your moment. Costco’s value-priced, colossal bag of good old-fashioned Kirkland Signature Whey Protein is about to become your new best friend in the gym and in the kitchen. It’s a total game-changer for your protein game!
This isn’t just any protein powder; it’s an economical bonanza! You’re getting a whopping 25-gram serving of high-quality protein for just 80 cents. Yes, you read that right – 80 cents! That’s an unbeatable price point that makes consistent protein intake incredibly accessible for everyone, whether you’re a seasoned bodybuilder or just starting your fitness journey.
And let’s talk about the flavor – creamy chocolate! It’s so good that your post-gym shakes will taste less like a chore and more like a well-deserved dessert. It’s cheap enough that you can worry less about adding it to your diet elsewhere, like stirring a scoop into your morning oatmeal or boosting the protein content of your favorite pancake mix. This stuff is a true winner for both your gains and your budget!
11. **Raw Sauerkraut**Ready to give your gut some serious love? Let’s talk about raw sauerkraut, a superstar in the world of gut-friendly fermented foods! Costco often carries excellent options like Raw Sauerkraut or Wildborne Sauerkraut, and seriously, adding these to your diet is like throwing a party for your microbiome. Your gut will thank you, we promise!
Why all the fuss? Raw sauerkraut is absolutely brimming with beneficial probiotics. These live cultures are crucial for a healthy digestive system, helping to balance your gut flora, which can have ripple effects on everything from your immunity to your mood. It’s a simple, delicious way to support overall wellness from the inside out.
Incorporating this tangy delight into your meals is incredibly easy. Serve it as a zesty side dish alongside your favorite grilled meats or roasted vegetables. It’s also fantastic piled high on sandwiches or hot dogs, or even stirred into salads for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. The possibilities are endless for getting those good bugs into your belly!
Just remember, the key is “raw” sauerkraut, as that means it hasn’t been pasteurized, preserving all those amazing live and active cultures. This ensures you’re getting the full probiotic punch. So, next time you’re at Costco, make a beeline for the cold cases and pick up a jar (or two!) of this gut-loving goodness. Your digestive system will be singing its praises!
Read more about: Seriously, What Happened?! 8 Classic Dinner Party Dishes That Might Just Gather Dust on Today’s Table (But We Still Kinda Love Them)
12. **Organic Berries**Oh, how we love a good berry haul at Costco! Head straight to the produce section, and you’ll often find fantastic deals on organic berries – think strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries. This is where your health-conscious shopping list really starts to shine, offering you fresh, vibrant nutrition without the premium price tag often seen elsewhere.
These juicy little powerhouses are absolute antioxidant champions, fighting off free radicals and helping protect your cells. They’re also bursting with essential vitamins and dietary fiber, making them a fantastic addition to almost any meal or snack. From boosting your morning smoothie to jazzing up your yogurt, berries are incredibly versatile and delicious.
Buying organic berries in bulk from Costco is a genius move for your budget, especially when you consider how expensive organic produce can be at other stores. Stock up, enjoy them fresh, and then toss any extras into the freezer for future smoothies or baking projects. It’s a smart way to ensure you always have nutrient-dense fruit on hand!
These berries are a stellar choice for completing your health-conscious shopping list, adding natural sweetness, vital nutrients, and vibrant color to your diet. They make healthy eating not just easy, but truly enjoyable. So go ahead, grab that big container of organic berries – your taste buds and your body will thank you!
Parsley, Kale, And Berry Smoothie
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Wash the parsley and kale thoroughly. Remove the tough center ribs from the kale leaves, then roughly chop both the kale and parsley.
- Slice the banana into manageable pieces if it’s not already pre-cut.
- In a high-speed blender, add approximately 1/2 to 1 cup of water or unsweetened plant-based milk (e.g., almond, soy, or coconut milk).
- Add the prepared kale and parsley to the blender.
- Blend on high until the greens are thoroughly pulverized and the mixture is smooth, scraping down the sides as needed.
- Add the frozen organic berries, sliced banana, and ground flaxseed to the blender.
- Blend again until the smoothie is completely smooth and reaches your desired consistency, adding more liquid a tablespoon at a time if it’s too thick.
- Taste and adjust if necessary, perhaps adding a touch more liquid or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Pour the smoothie into two serving glasses.
- Serve immediately and enjoy for a refreshing and healthy boost.
Notes
Read more about: Zero-Waste Kitchen: 14 Simple Hacks to Transform Food Scraps into Delicious Dishes
13. **Kirkland Organic Eggs or Conventional Eggs (5 dozen packs)**Let’s crack into another fantastic Costco find: eggs! Whether you opt for the Kirkland Organic Eggs or the conventional five-dozen packs, you’re looking at a serious win for nutrient density and affordability. Eggs are the ultimate versatile protein source, ready to elevate any meal from breakfast to dinner.
Seriously, eggs are packed with high-quality protein and a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. While the world of egg labeling can sometimes feel like the “Wild West situation,” as our nutritionist friend notes, even conventional eggs are a very nutrient-dense, healthy option. You don’t always need the fanciest label to get fantastic nutrition from eggs!
For families, especially those with growing kids, these five-dozen packs are an absolute lifesaver. Grocery costs have exploded, and being able to get such a high-quality protein source at an unbeatable bulk price is incredibly empowering. It’s a prime example of how the “marginal benefit of the BEST case doesn’t take away from the fact that the conventional version is still very nutrient-dense!” So, scramble ’em, fry ’em, poach ’em – just eat ’em!
14. **Simple Mills Almond Flour Sea Salt Crackers (2 10-oz boxes)**Get ready for some oh-so-tasty savory crunch that’s actually good for you! Simple Mills Almond Flour Sea Salt Crackers are here to help you side-step those ultra-processed carbs found in most other boxed options. These aren’t just crackers; they’re a smarter snack choice that you’ll absolutely adore for their flavor and fantastic ingredients.
What makes these crackers a standout? They’re crafted with a clever blend of nuts and seeds, which really ups the nutritional ante compared to traditional, often empty-calorie crackers. This means you’re getting more healthy fats and fiber with every satisfying crunch, helping you feel fuller and more nourished.
And here’s the Costco magic: buying a 2-count of these from the big-box store is noticeably cheaper than purchasing individual boxes from regular grocers. It’s a prime example of how Costco helps you save while making healthier choices. You can dip them into your favorite nut butter, hummus, or guacamole, or go bigger on protein by topping these next-level crackers with a scoop of that delicious canned salmon we talked about earlier. Snack time, leveled up!
15. **NuTrail No Sugar Added Keto Nut Granola Blueberry Cinnamon (2-pack 22 oz. bags)**Calling all granola lovers! If you’ve ever felt guilty about the sugar bomb that most crunchy granolas on the market tend to be – truly a classic example of a “health halo” gone wrong – then you absolutely need to check out NuTrail No Sugar Added Keto Nut Granola. This stuff is a revelation!
This keto-approved option boldly ditches the added sugar, which is a massive win for your blood sugar and overall health. Instead of empty fillers, it goes bigger on wholesome nuts and seeds, delivering a generous dose of protein and healthy fats to keep you energized and satisfied. Plus, the blueberry goodness comes from real blueberries, not some artificial flavoring cooked up in a lab.
Whether you add it to a bowl with your favorite milk and fresh berries for a sensible breakfast meal, or you grab a handful for a late-night nosh, this granola is a smart choice. Just a heads-up, our nutritionist notes that the only downside is that it’s currently only available via online ordering through Costco, but trust us, it’s worth the click!
### Your Costco Kitchen: A Frugal Champion’s Breakfast!
Now that you’ve got your cart loaded with these amazing healthy finds, how about we put some of them to work? Our nutritionist has whipped up a super simple, super satisfying ‘Power Oatmeal Recipe’ that turns your Costco haul into a breakfast fit for frugal champions. This isn’t just breakfast; it’s a testament to smart shopping and delicious, nutrient-dense eating!
**Power Oatmeal Recipe:**
* 1/2 cup Bob’s Red Mill Quick Cooking Steel Cut Oats (from Item 2!)
* 1/3 cup sliced Kirkland Signature, Sunsweet Whole Dried Plums (from Item 9!)
* 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1 scoop Kirkland Signature Whey Protein (from Item 10!)
* 1/3 cup Kirkland Signature Extra Fancy Mixed Nuts (from Item 1!)
**Instructions:**
In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup water and a pinch of salt to a boil. Stir in the oats and cinnamon, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring a couple of times, for about 8 minutes. Once the oats are cooked to your liking, stir in that fabulous whey protein, remove from heat, and let it stand, covered, for 2 minutes to thicken beautifully. Finally, spoon your hearty oats into a bowl and top with the crunchy, wholesome nuts. Boom! You’ve just created a breakfast that’s packed with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, all thanks to your savvy Costco shopping!
There you have it, folks! From foundational pantry staples to gut-friendly powerhouses and wallet-friendly proteins, Costco truly is a treasure trove for healthy eating in 2025. It’s all about being strategic, knowing what to look for, and recognizing that eating well doesn’t have to mean emptying your savings. So go forth, conquer those aisles, and fill your home with nutritious, delicious, and affordable goodies that will help you build muscle, boost your health, and keep that cumulative toxin load in check. Happy shopping, and here’s to a healthier, happier you!
