The goal of phishing emails is to lure you into clicking on a link, leading you to a site containing malware, or trick you into entering personal information. Here’s what to do if you get a Costco scam email—and how to know it’s definitely spam.

What to Do If You Get a Costco Scam Email

First, and most important: Do not click on any links in a spam email! Don’t open or download any attachments. And don’t reply to the email, either, even if you’re tempted to scold the person who sent it. Replying to phishing emails only lets the scammers know that your email is active and ensures that you stay on their mailing list.

Next, report the spam to Costco. The store keeps a list of currently known scams, and if you alert them to a new one, you can help warn other consumers.

Finally, mark the email as spam. This helps your email filter junk emails more effectively. Last but not least, delete the email so you don’t accidentally click the link later.

What do Costco email scams look like?

Like many email scams, the fake Costco emails just feel off. The email might look sloppy, with unpolished graphics or no logos. Look for typos and grammatical errors, which are red flags that the email didn’t pass through the careful editors or a marketing department. Scams often include odd salutations, such as using excessive honorifics (such as Mr. and Ms.) in subject lines.

Always read the “From:” field. Scammers often misspell company names (even by a single letter) or add extra words to the brand name. You may see that a third party sent the email, such as “Costco via BigBuckSavers.” Those are clear signs that the email isn’t authentic.

The biggest red flag of all? Any request for personal information or financial information. Scammers are out to get something from you, so their emails often ask for passwords, identifying information, credit card numbers and more.

They’ll frequently try to alarm you, implying that there’s an urgent issue with your account. Or, they’ll take the opposite approach and hold out a carrot—a free item, or a prize—if you just click on the link. That’s not a good way to save money at the store! Take your time reading emails, and you’ll sharpen your sniff test for spam.

Related:

• Is a Costco Membership Worth It?
• Costco Member Benefits You Might Not Know About (But Should)
• Every Costco Food Court Item, Ranked

The post If You Get a Costco Scam Email, You Need to Do This Immediately appeared first on Taste Recipes.

7. Walmart

The original potato salad from Walmart is made with potatoes, mayonnaise, water, sugar, celery and sweet pickle relish, and without any artificial flavors or corn syrup. It retails for a budget-conscious $3.47 per pound.

While the price was right for this potato salad, the consistency was not. The potatoes were overcooked and mushy, with a dressing that was far too thin. We prefer potato salads that have nice chunks that can be picked up with a fork, but this could almost be mashed potatoes.

Bottom Line: The Walmart potato salad’s price-per-pound was attractive, but that’s about it.

6. Meijer

Meijer had plenty of potato salad options in its refrigerator case. There was a loaded smashed potato salad, red potato salad, Amish-style potato salad and a mustard potato salad. For this taste test, we sampled the store’s American potato salad made with celery, sweet pickle relish, onion and mustard. It’s sold in a 16-ounce container for $3.59.

We found this potato salad to be a bit too sour and in need of additional seasoning. However, we liked the crunch from the celery and the fact that it was made without high-fructose corn syrup.

Bottom Line: With a variety of choices all for a great price, Meijer is the way to go if you want to pick up several different options for a party.

5. Aldi

As a German grocery store chain, we had high expectations for the Aldi potato salad. The large, 32-ounce container sells for an incredible price, only $3.99, making this the best price-per-pound of any of the grocery stores we visited.

While Aldi’s potato salad stood out in terms of value, it was more middle-of-the-road in terms of flavor. The potatoes were cooked nicely, and we could taste the mustard flavor, but it was a bit on the sour side. Plus, we wanted more seasoning and color. The ingredients listed were potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, hard-boiled eggs, sugar, water, onion, sweet pickle relish, green onion and dehydrated parsley. More green onion and parsley would have helped this one.

Bottom Line: If saving money is a top priority, this incredible value from Aldi can’t be beat. Kick it up a notch by chopping fresh herbs and sprinkling them over the salad.

4. Target

The classic potato salad from Target had nice chunks of perfectly cooked potato as well as some flecks of color throughout. The consistency of the dressing was great, but there was almost too much of it. Made with potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, hard-boiled eggs, sugar, water, onion and sweet pickle relish, we appreciated that we could taste each of the individual elements here. At $3.69 for a 1-pound container, the Target potato salad was right on the money.

Bottom Line: While this wasn’t at the top of our list, the potato salad from Target is a convenient and price-conscious option for summer get-togethers.

3. Jewel/Albertson’s

The original potato salad from Jewel was one of several options from the deli case. They also sold one called Grandma’s potato salad and a buttermilk potato salad. At $4.99 per pound, this was more expensive than some of the other options, but with a higher quality, so we felt the price was fair.

The potatoes were perfectly cooked, and the salad was bright yellow. We liked the addition of celery seed to the ingredient list and felt it added flavor that was lacking in the other potato salads. The only thing that would have made this one better would have been more mix-ins.

Bottom Line: With nice chunks of potatoes and a beautiful yellow hue, the potato salad from Jewel was one of the most attractive of the bunch. It would fit perfectly with any summer potluck spread.

2. Mariano’s/Kroger

There were several potato salad options at Mariano’s. Customers can choose from German Potato salad, steakhouse potato salad, metro potato salad and, of course, the classic yellow potato salad. This is the one we sampled for $4.49 per pound. It was made with all the traditional ingredients: russet potatoes, mayonnaise, dressing, celery, bell peppers, onion, mustard, sugar, salt and white pepper.

There were lovely pieces of cooked potato, and we could taste the other elements in the salad, too. It was all coated in a creamy dressing with balanced flavor. White pepper isn’t as sharp as black pepper, and it made all the difference in this salad.

Bottom Line: Mariano’s is a top choice if you like a traditional potato salad made with russet potatoes.

1. Whole Foods

The red bliss potato salad from Whole Foods took the top slot in our potato salad taste test. Even before taking that first bite, this salad was the most appetizing. Made with unpeeled red potatoes, this potato salad had lovely flecks of color. Leaving the skin on the potatoes added a delightful texture, too.

Besides potatoes, the ingredients include mayonnaise, sour cream, celery, onion, green onion, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, brown sugar, parsley, water, cornstarch and white pepper. The combination of mayonnaise and sour cream created the perfect creamy binder for all the elements. Apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard added a lively zing, and the green onion added a burst of color.

At $5.99 a pound, this was the most expensive potato salad on the list, and it was worth every penny.

Bottom Line: If you are willing to spend an extra dollar per pound, the Whole Foods potato salad is made with fresh ingredients and tastes homemade.

Related:

• Can You Freeze Potato Salad?
• I Made Ina Garten’s Potato Salad and I Can’t Wait to Share It
• 7 Best Store-Bought Pasta Salads, Ranked

The post The Best Store-Bought Potato Salads, Ranked appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Luckily, Costco is well known for its giant cheesecakes. The flavors come and go, so you never know what you’ll find in the bakery section! The latest springy iteration is a strawberry streusel cheesecake, and customers can’t get enough of it.

Why are people talking about the Costco cheesecake?

Costco fans on TikTok, Instagram and Reddit are all abuzz about this seasonal cheesecake at Costco. The strawberry streusel is the latest in the warehouse’s series of cheesecakes that all seem to go viral soon after they hit the refrigerator case. The cheesecakes frequently correspond with seasonal flavors or holidays. Everyone loves the pumpkin cheesecake in the fall, and the recent tiramisu cheesecake was a dessert mashup that I was too happy to pick up!

The cheesecakes often get people talking because of their impressive size. Costco’s strawberry streusel option weighs in at nearly 5 pounds! The streusel topping is what has everyone chatting this season, though. It makes the cheesecake feel like a coffee cake, and, hey, we’ll take any excuse to eat dessert for breakfast!

Is the strawberry streusel cheesecake good?

The strawberry streusel cheesecake isn’t just good, it’s incredible. Or, too good, as one Reddit commenter said. It starts with a classic graham cracker crust, followed by a traditional vanilla cheesecake filling. A fresh strawberry layer completely covers the top, bringing in one of our favorite flavors of the season. Finally, there’s a thick layer of sweet and buttery crumble streusel topping.

From the first bite, it tastes like everything we love about cheesecake and a breakfast pastry. It’s an impressive 4-1/2 pounds of dessert magic selling for $22.99. Figuring this will serve upward of 16 people, the cost per slice is a deal.

Plenty of Costco shoppers have commented on Reddit about how irresistible this cheesecake is! Many folks said, “There goes my diet,” with a wink and not much regret. However, several posts raved about the fact that this dessert wasn’t overly sweet. In my opinion, a dessert that doesn’t make you feel like you’re getting a cavity is always a win.

Costco is notoriously secretive about how long products like this will stay on store shelves, so it’s hard to say when this cheesecake will be replaced. I recommend making a Costco trip before time runs out!

Related:

• The Costco Bakery Just Dropped the One Dessert I Wait All Year For
• Things You Never Knew About the Costco Food Court
• Popular Costco Items That You Won’t Find in 2025

The post I Finally Bought Costco’s Strawberry Streusel Cheesecake and It Tastes Like Spring appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Before you start whipping up a weeknight meal, check your refrigerator for Park Street Deli heat-and-serve pork carnitas, because they may contain pieces of metal.

What caused the health alert?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) issued this public health alert for the pork carnitas. During routine maintenance, the manufacturer found equipment damage that indicates the possibility of metal pieces contaminating the carnitas.

Pieces of metal would definitely be dangerous to ingest, so the FSIS wants to make sure that no one eats the product. Fortunately, there haven’t been any reports of illness or injury yet.

This isn’t technically a recall because the pork carnitas aren’t for sale at the grocery store anymore. But customers could easily still have them at home.

What stores sold the pork carnitas?

This is an Aldi-exclusive product, so it was only available at Aldi stores. The health alert says that the pork carnitas were shipped to Aldi stores nationwide, so it does affect all Aldi locations in the United States.

How do I know if I have the pork carnitas?

This health alert affects exactly one product. Even though they are no longer available for purchase at Aldi, the FSIS wants to make sure everyone checks their fridge and freezer for the product. In the bottom right corner of the package is a small white circle that contains the USDA establishment number, which for the affected lot of carnitas is 46049.

Pork Carnitas Seasoned & Seared Pork with Juices Slow Cooked with Citrus

• Size: 16-oz tray
• Use by dates: 06/30/2025 or 07/01/2025

What should I do next?

If you have any of the pork carnitas, don’t eat them, even if they look fine. You can throw them away, or bring them back to Aldi for a refund. If you have eaten the carnitas and feel sick, call your doctor ASAP.

The post This Popular Aldi Product Is Not Safe to Eat, According to the USDA appeared first on Taste Recipes.

In my opinion, the best treat at TJ’s is a seasonal one that’s only available for an extremely limited run. Every year, fans eagerly await for it to appear on Trader Joe’s shelves. It’s like the ultimate sign that spring is officially here—and that it’s going to be delicious.

I’m talking, of course, about the Trader Joe’s Carrot Mini Sheet Cake.

What is so special about Trader Joe’s carrot cake?

OK, first of all, it’s cute. It’s a tiny little sheet cake with adorably piped cream cheese dressing. It makes for a delectable afternoon treat—in fact, some enthusiasts even carry forks in their purses so they’re always prepared to dig in.

Aside from the aesthetics, fans go nuts about it because it contains no raisins. Raisins are a divisive addition to a lot of recipes, but the raisin-haters win here. Fans also like that it contains walnut meal as opposed to large chunks of nuts that can be difficult to chew. Basically, it’s all the best carrot cake flavors without anything to stop you from enjoying it very quickly—perhaps before anyone sees that you have it and asks for a bite.

Ultimately, the best part about the cake is the cream cheese icing on top. I cannot stress how imperative good icing is to carrot cake, and this one, well, takes the cake! It’s important that you inspect each of the mini sheet cakes and get one that has the frosting piped all the way to the edge—Reddit users have noted that edges and corners on some cakes are woefully under-frosted.

How long will the carrot cakes be available?

I don’t want to be dramatic, but you should stop reading this story and drive straight to Trader Joe’s if you want one. They’re only available for a limited time, and that fact, combined with their cult status, makes them disappear from shelves quickly.

The cakes hit stores this week, and their continued availability is totally dependent on the shopping habits of your fellow Trader Joe’s enthusiasts. Pack up your TJ’s cooler bag and go!

The post This Fan-Favorite Trader Joe’s Item Is Finally Back in Stores—But Not for Long appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What’s causing the matcha shortage?

Matcha’s recent surge in popularity is largely to blame—and there are many reasons for that popularity.

For one thing, the Guardian notes that Japan is experiencing record tourism in the years since the COVID-19 pandemic, and many travelers are perhaps being exposed to matcha for the first time, establishing a greater appetite for the tea. Though it naturally has a bitter, grassy flavor, matcha blends well with various sweeteners such as honey, syrup and sweetened coconut milk.

More demand means more experimentation, so matcha now pops up in places it wouldn’t before: beverages, candy and restaurant menus.

And we can’t discount the fact that matcha is incredibly photogenic and social-media-friendly. It’s bright green and inviting, often paired with other colorful additions (look no further than Starbucks’ green-and-purple Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha).

Matcha doesn’t have as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, so it’s a great step-down beverage for your morning routine. Green tea, in all its forms, has long been associated with good health, too. Though the evidence for such claims appears to be limited, it’s true that matcha is rich in antioxidants.

Taken together, all these attributes mean that demand has spiked, and supply hasn’t been able to keep up.

As Forbes reported last year, matcha must be grown in very specific conditions within a limited timeframe, so it’s not as simple as ramping up production. Unexpected weather can also make a dent in the growing season, and the processing time—grinding all the tea leaves into matcha’s fine powder form—is extensive and handled largely by independent farms.

Forbes notes that farmers across Asia and the United States have started growing matcha to meet demand. Whether its quality will match that of Japan’s, where the tradition is 500 years strong, remains to be seen.

The post Matcha Lovers, Brace for Impact—There Could Be a Shortage in 2025 appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Bizarre as this may sound, it’s a known phenomenon in the poultry industry.

What’s going on with Costco’s raw chicken?

The official term for chicken breast that’s threaded with stringy or shredded texture, even before it’s cooked, is “spaghetti meat.” It’s an unappealing name for an unappealing trait.

Has anyone else had issues with Organic Kirkland chicken?
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The scientific explanation for spaghetti meat is simple. It’s a muscle abnormality caused by overly fast growth in birds raised for eating, primarily broiler hens. When muscles grow too quickly, they lose integrity, leading to soft, mushy tissue that separates into noodle-like bands. Unfortunately, it’s a known side effect of commercial farming, since farms are under pressure to produce cheap, big chickens and more of them. The issue first appeared in 2015 and remains a persistent bugbear for the poultry industry and for shoppers.

Is it safe to eat?

Technically, spaghetti meat is safe to eat. It’s not as healthy as unaffected poultry, however, as it has less protein and more fat, but it’s not toxic or inedible. If you don’t want to toss it, there are ways to make it more appetizing. Our best tip is to cook and shred the chicken. Many of our favorite shredded chicken recipes are richly spiced: think chicken tacos, Thai chicken pizza and barbecue sliders.

Mixing this chicken with other textures, such as shredded cabbage, carrots and nuts in a salad, can also distract from any stringy feel.

How do you avoid ‘spaghetti meat?’

It’s tricky to catch spaghetti meat until you’re slicing into it. That said, shopping for chicken thighs, wings or legs rather than breasts will reduce your risk. You can also buy poultry from smaller farms, which don’t use the same growth methods as commercial meat producers. Farmers markets and meat CSAs are good sources of local meat.

The post Why Is Everyone Talking About Costco’s Chicken Right Now? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The Carrot Bar Cake Is Back at Costco

The dessert features three layers of decadent carrot cake topped with three layers of tangy cream cheese icing. A sprinkle of toasted walnuts decorates the top. It’s called a bar cake because the cake itself is a long, narrow rectangle. Serve it by slicing off pieces from one end. For the cleanest cut of cake, use a hot, serrated knife.

The cake has a combination of raisins, carrots and pineapple. This gives the cake density and moisture. Since the cake only has frosting between the layers and on top, it isn’t overly sweet and there is a perfect cake-to-frosting ratio. All in all, the bar cake is 2 pounds, 9 ounces of deliciousness selling for $18.99.

What People Are Saying

While this treat is something many Costco shoppers look forward to every year, there are some divisive elements with the Carrot Bar Cake. A quick scroll on TikTok and Reddit showed that people have very strong opinions on whether raisins belong in a carrot cake. Comments ranged everywhere from “Proper carrot cake does indeed have raisins” to “Raisins are rotten grapes. Keep them out of my cake.” Some folks didn’t love the fact that pineapple was also included in the cake batter.

Costco bakery items tend to be on the larger side, but even if you don’t finish all of this dessert, there are solutions. Several commenters noted they like to freeze individual servings for later when the cake has been phased out for the season. One fan said, “See, what you do is, you buy it, bring it home, slice it into individual servings that you put into Ziploc freezer bags, and you put those in the freezer. From time to time, you have a single serving of this absolutely decadent cake. Also works exceptionally well with tuxedo cake.”

If you aren’t convinced the Carrot Bar Cake is for you, maybe this comment straight from a Costco bakery employee might sway your decision. They said, “We just started it today in my Costco. It’s really good, not super sweet. You can see the carrot bits in it. Very few things I get from my bakery, but I’d buy this.”

The post The Costco Bakery Just Dropped the One Dessert I Wait All Year For appeared first on Taste Recipes.

But never fear, because Costco is here—and the warehouse is now carrying Chick-fil-A sauce.

When is Chick-fil-A sauce coming to Costco?

It’s at Costco right now. Fans started posting full pallets of Chick-fil-A sauce. You could previously purchase the sauce in a 16-ounce bottle, but any sauce aficionado (hello, fellow nerds) will tell you that is simply not enough! Fortunately, Chick-fil-A is selling a special “club pack” at Costco with two 24-oz bottles of that finger-lickin’ goodness.

If you are somehow not a Costco member, that’s OK too! The 2-pack will be available at other club stores, including Sam’s Club and BJ’s Wholesale. It seems like the one thing everyone can agree on right now is that people need this sauce.

How long will it be available?

It’s unclear if this will be a permanent Costco item or a limited edition product. I’ve been burned by Costco before (can you believe they changed the flavors in the Waterloo sparkling water multi-pack without telling me?), so I’m wary of things being discontinued.

If this is a purchase that will make you “eat more chikin,” I say buy now. You never know how long the Chick-fil-A sauce will stick around, and I would hate for you to go without!

The post Chick-fil-A Just Landed at Costco, and Everyone Is Rushing to the Warehouse appeared first on Taste Recipes.

In this subreddit, the Costco self-checkout is a source of endless speculation. It stymies even the most seasoned wholesale shoppers!

What is the self-checkout rule?

Earlier this month, one user took to the Costco subreddit to ask about a recent shopping trip. The OP explains that they went to the self-checkout line with “maybe 20 items” and said the employee overseeing self-checkout personally scanned all the items instead. The Costco employee said there’s no official rule about how many items can be taken through self-checkout, but that 20 is “really too many.”

“Is this an unspoken rule?” the OP asked the subreddit.

It’s a query that has made the rounds on the subreddit for years, and the responses are equally passionate in all directions. On this month’s thread, which so far has nearly 700 upvotes and almost 300 comments, users’ responses range from “I’ve always viewed self-checkout as an express checkout lane” to “If they have a policy they should post it.”

Some shoppers report that their locations have signage indicating a 15-item limit but this seems to be at each store’s discretion. Even people who oppose an item limit admit that a practical line could be drawn somewhere around 20 items, after which the shopper slows down the self-checkout line for everyone else.

In addition to greater efficiency, imposing a limit on self-checkout can be a loss prevention tactic for many stores, as Costco employees say that the self-checkout lanes are where the majority of thefts occur. Fewer items allowed at self-checkout means fewer high-value products sneaking through unpaid.

There’s also a space issue at self-checkout. The small area for scanned purchases simply can’t accommodate upwards of 20 items. It’s not as simple as moving the items directly into shopping bags on the ground after scanning because items have to stay on the scale until after you pay.

The Costco website’s FAQ does not say that self-checkout lanes have an item limit. However, the question lumps self-checkout and express lanes together, perhaps indicating that they should be treated the same way and used for quicker trips and low-volume purchases.

To have the best Costco self-checkout experience, stick to a small number of items. Have your membership card and payment method at the ready. Don’t expect to use a hand scanner, as many locations don’t make those available to customers.

As always, be ready to present your receipt to an employee at the door before leaving. If the process stresses you out, you can always grab a $1.50 hot dog combo as a treat.

The post The Costco Self-Checkout Has Just One Unspoken Rule appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What caused the recall?

The recall affects 15,874 total cases of the product. The oyster crackers were recalled over the possibility of contamination by a foreign object. Specifically, they could contain small pieces of metal in the form of stainless steel wire, which should never be ingested.

The recall was initiated as a Class III on February 21, which means “use of or exposure to is not likely to cause adverse health consequences,” per the FDA. But on March 11, the FDA updated this recall to a Class II, meaning “use of or exposure to may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”

What states are affected by the recall?

The recalled oyster crackers were distributed for sale in 24 states: Alabama, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wisconsin.

What stores sold the recalled products?

The oyster crackers were sold at three retailers, all under house brand names:

• Market Pantry Soup & Oyster Crackers at Target
• Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers at Walmart
• Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers at Giant Eagle

The recall also affects Vista Soup & Oyster Crackers, which are typically sold directly to restaurants.

How do I know if I have a recalled product?

The oyster crackers were shipped in 9- or 12-ounce boxes that contained 12 individually wrapped plastic bags.

To see if you have a recalled product, check your bag for the following information:

• Market Pantry Soup & Oyster Crackers
  • Size: 9 ounces
  • UPC: 085239114933
  • Sell By Date: 23 May 2025
• Great Value Soup & Oyster Crackers
  • Size: 9 ounces
  • UPC: 078742085494
  • Sell By Date: 23 May 2025
• Giant Eagle Oyster Crackers
  • Size: 9 ounces
  • UPC: 030034915087
  • Sell By Date: 24 May 2025
• VISTA Soup & Oyster Crackers
  • Size: 12 ounces
  • UPC: 045100008006
  • Sell By Date: 24 May 2025

What should I do next?

If you have a box of recalled oyster crackers, do not eat them, even if they do not appear to be contaminated. You can throw them out or bring them back to the store you purchased them from for a refund.

The post Cracker Recall: Oyster Crackers Sold at Walmart, Target Recalled Over Metal Contamination appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What caused the recall?

The recall affects about 61,500 bottles of water. They were sold individually and in cases of 15. The water bottles were recalled over a manufacturing error that could cause them to crack. Since they’re glass, this could pose a laceration risk.

What states are affected by the recall?

The recalled Gerolsteiner water bottles were sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas from December 2024 through January 2025.

How do I know if I have a recalled product?

To see if you have a recalled product, check the bottom of the label for the lot number. Recalled products will display lot number 11/28/2024 L or 11/27/2024 L

What should I do next?

If you have a bottle of recalled Gerolsteiner water, do not consume it, even if it does not appear to be cracked or otherwise pose a risk. Carefully dispose of the product, or return it to Trader Joe’s for a full refund.

The post Water Bottle Recall: Trader Joe’s Just Recalled 61,500 Bottles of Sparkling Water appeared first on Taste Recipes.

On the latest Inside Trader Joe’s podcast epsiode, the chain revealed a new Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter in collaboration with Hardywood Park Craft Brewery.

What is the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter?

Hardywood is a Virginia-based craft brewer. TJ’s has previously partnered with them on other treat-inspired releases, like its Speculoos Cookie Butter Beer and Joe-Joe’s Chocolate Vanilla Creme Stout.

On Inside Trader Joe’s, VP of marketing Tara Miller says the new porter is an “homage” to Trader Joe’s incredibly popular Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups.

Matt Sloan, the company’s “culture and innovation guy,” described the porter as “bold” and “intense” with an ABV of 9.2%. It has notes of chocolate, a bit of coffee and—of course—peanut butter. The beer, he added, is more of a dessert drink than something you’d enjoy with dinner.

The new beer has reportedly been a hit with those who have had a taste. And how can it not be when alcohol is one of the things you should always buy at TJ’s! During a tasting panel, “the whole group’s hands shot up in yes votes almost immediately,” Miller said on the podcast.

“It does taste as good as it sounds,” she added. We’ll ring the bell for that!

How long will it be at Trader Joe’s?

Like any other seasonal Trader Joe’s offering, it’s difficult to predict exactly how long the Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Porter will be available in stores. If you want a taste, you should try to stop in sooner rather than later. But, given that the porter is part of the chain’s spring lineup, we hope that it will stick around for at least a couple months.

The post Trader Joe’s Fans Can’t Believe How Perfect This Brand-New Find Is appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Because Costco has so many items, it can’t keep offering them all forever. Things come and go at Costco, and sometimes there’s zero warning that a product will be discontinued. Thankfully, Costco sells most of its items in enormous, are-you-running-a-daycare sizes, so you won’t run out soon.

Here’s a closer look at nine items that are no longer reliably sold at Costco.

Croissant Sandwich Platter

The best party item ever is Costco’s croissant sandwich platter. Ten Costco croissants made into turkey, ham and roast beef sandwiches, sliced into three pieces each and served with tubs of mustard and mayo.

I used to buy this for my annual Christmas cookie swap party every December, but it’s been gone for at least two years. When I asked about it, I was pointed to the pinwheel platter and a deli platter offering cold cuts and cheese, but you’d need to buy rolls or croissants separately. If the croissant sandwich platter ever returns, I swear, they will hear me cheering from my home in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood all the way over at the Issaquah headquarters.

Kirkland Chocolate Chips

Everyone needs a stash of chocolate chips in the pantry, whether for cookies, bars or snacking. Unfortunately, Reader’s Digest reports that Costco has ditched its own brand of chocolate chips due to rising cocoa prices. The warehouse only stocks Nestle chocolate morsels now.

Roast Beef Sandwich

Costco’s food court offerings change regularly—too often for some shoppers’ liking. The roast beef sandwich is now gone from the food court, but no matter; the iconic $1.50 hot dog and soda combo remains.

Churros

I love me some churros. The tasty, sweet sticks of twisted fried dough are a sugary delight I mostly associate with state fairs. But Costco’s food court sold them until 2024, making for a yummy after-shopping reward. It’s possible they’ll return—they have in the past. In the meantime, here’s where to find a Costco churro dupe.

Berry Smoothie

People adored Costco’s food court berry smoothie. But according to The Takeout and Reddit commenters, it’s gone and has been replaced with a strawberry-banana version.

Kirkland Country French Bread

Costco’s bakery is surprisingly good for a big-box store. One of shoppers’ favorite items was the Kirkland Signature Brand Country French Bread, but according to a Reddit user who inquired at their Costco bakery, it’s been discontinued.

‘Cooking the Costco Way’ Cookbooks

It’s only natural that Costco would compile recipes for the foods it sells. The chain used to give out free cookbooks, dubbed Cooking the Costco Way, every Black Friday. Costco doesn’t do that anymore, but you can still read recipes in the Costco Connection magazine.

Red Grapefruit Cups

I’m a huge fan of grapefruit, whether in juice, salads or just the fruit itself. Costco sells a variety of its own Kirkland Signature brand fruit cups, but the store has discontinued its red grapefruit cups, a fact that a Reddit user confirmed with Costco staff.

Store-Brand Eggs That Aren’t Cage-Free

This one is actually good news! Costco no longer offers store-brand eggs from caged chickens. As you know if you’ve read the news lately, eggs are a hot item—expensive and hard to find thanks to a devastating bird flu outbreak. Costco sells eggs in typical huge Costco quantities—five dozen—and I usually pick them up for my annual Easter egg-dyeing party. It’s good to know that if I’m able to get my eggs there this year, they likely won’t be from caged hens.

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8. Turkey Swiss Sandwich

I do not understand who Costco’s Turkey Swiss sandwich is for, and after tasting it for professional reasons, I understand it even less. If you’re familiar with the ciabatta rolls from Costco’s bakery (which, in my opinion, are a must-try), you know they’re best when warm. It makes the bread soft and pliable. Sadly, this does not happen at the Costco food court, where a pile of sliced turkey and cheese sits upon a throne that is cold and crumbly.

Generous dollops of sun-dried tomato spread and mustard-mayo spread keep this sandwich from being too dry, but overall, it’s unremarkable. You’d be far more satisfied grabbing anything from the prepared foods section over this.

7. Chocolate Chunk Cookie

This cookie is good but not great. It’s far too sweet to be truly enjoyable without an ice-cold glass of milk to temper the sugar. Since Costco doesn’t sell milk at its food court, your only option is to start swigging the milk in your shopping cart. I personally don’t have a problem with this, but you might. This cookie also loses major points for bumping the Costco churro from the menu, which remains the most tragic moment in Costco history.

6. Ice Cream Sundae

Costco’s soft serve ice cream is surprisingly good, and at the bargain price of $1.99 a cup, it’s an impromptu indulgence that’s pretty hard to talk yourself out of. For 50 cents more, you can upgrade to an ice cream sundae, which adds your choice of hot fudge or strawberry topping. I’m all for a fun ice cream upgrade if you need to make a special treat extra special!

Personally, I like the plain chocolate ice cream just fine and don’t think it needs anything else to be a bright spot in my day.

5. Chicken Caesar Salad

Costco’s rotisserie chicken makes a fantastic Caesar salad, and the family-sized version found in the prepared foods section is a personal favorite. In fact, I’d skip the snack bar for this item and buy yourself the big one. It lasts for a few days in the fridge, meaning you can have your urgent chicken Caesar salad needs met while also making an investment for your salad future. There is nothing wrong with this salad conceptually, but within the boundaries of a snack bar, it’s out of place.

4. Cheese Pizza

Even though I grew up in Brooklyn, a veritable pizza paradise, I believe that all pizzas are beautiful in their own way. Pizza is a spectrum, and there is as much need in this world for garbage pizza as there is for high-quality artisan pies.

Costco has created its own category of garbage pizza, and I mean that as the highest compliment. The sauce is canned, the crust is spongy and the cheese is greasy. It’s exactly the sort of thing I want to eat when I’m using pizza not for sustenance but for my mental health.

3. Pepperoni Pizza

This is everything good about Costco’s cheese pizza, plus pepperoni. Really, what else needs to be said?

2. Chicken Bake

I have a soft spot in my heart for the Chicken Bake, as it’s the only item on the Costco snack bar menu that has no true equivalent in the outside world. In most pizzerias, chicken rolls and strombolis go the classic Parmesan route with tomato sauce and cheese, or the chaotic bacon ranch route (which is better in theory than practice). But Costco’s Chicken Bake exists somehwere in the middle, combining sliced chicken and bacon with provolone, mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then inexplicably introducing green onions and Caesar dressing to the equation.

Few others have attempted this combo, and fewer still have succeeded, for they lack the inherent magic that lives inside each and every Costco. It’s not the best thing on the menu, but it’s arguably the most iconic.

1. Hot Dog

Though the Chicken Bake may be a Costco exclusive, its signature offering is the $1.50 hot dog deal, and it’s impossible for me to leave the store without partaking in the most hallowed of Costco traditions.

Sure, Costco might not have raw onions at the toppings bar anymore, and asking for a cup of sauerkraut on the side is hit or miss. But even if the hot dog is eaten au naturale, it’s amazing. The size of the hot dog alone is something worth celebrating. The franks aren’t jumbo, they’re colossal, and the price makes them taste even better.

Even if you’re in the mood to eat something else, it’s worth the buck fifty for the fountain soda alone. Then, a few hours later, when you feel peckish, you’ll remember you have a Costco hot dog in your purse. The value just doesn’t stop!

The post We Ranked Every Costco Food Court Item, and the Winner Shocked Us appeared first on Taste Recipes.

When I heard that Aldi plans to drop some beautiful pastel dish sets for spring, I knew I had to hop on over and nab them for my Easter table. What could be more perfect than Easter egg-inspired Aldi finds?

What’s in the ‘Easter Egg Glass’ collection?

This new collection includes two sets: one with four glass plates and one with four drinking glasses. The pieces in both sets are pale blue, pink, orange and green. When I saw them, I immediately thought of Easter eggs, and then Easter egg glass. I’m in love!

The colors are so beautiful and evoke the aesthetic of decorated Easter eggs. Since so many stores have egg purchase limits right now, I might forgo dying eggs and pick up these plates and glasses instead. Or, at minimum, I will dye some eggs to match these place settings. Imagine the possibilities!

How long will it be available? 

As with all Aldi finds, there is absolutely no guarantee on how long they will be available. (I’m not the only one with a soft spot for their cute home decor.)  Sometimes, a product will be in the finds aisle for weeks, and sometimes, products sell out in a couple of days. This Easter-inspired collection drops on Wednesday, March 19, so if you want them, I suggest heading to Aldi first thing in the morning. 

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What’s in the Costco tiramisu cheesecake?

The cheesecake begins with a classic graham cracker crust that has been given a chocolaty twist with cocoa powder. Then, there’s a thick and rich cheesecake layer that has been infused with cold brew coffee. The filling could easily have been heavy, but I swear it’s velvety and not too dense. Finally, the dessert is finished off with a mascarpone whipped topping, which is light and airy. In keeping with the tiramisu theme, the cake is also dusted with cocoa powder as a final flourish.

It’s visually stunning and even more beautiful when you cut it to see three distinct layers!

You won’t find any rum or liqueur in this cheesecake. There are also no ladyfingers, an ingredient that’s essential for tiramisu. However, you won’t miss either element. The flavor combination of coffee, mascarpone and chocolate makes every bite magical.

The $23.99 price tag makes this one of Costco’s more expensive treats, but at 4.8 pounds, this dessert is massive. The cheesecake cuts beautifully, so every slice is camera-ready for presentation. Don’t worry if you have leftovers, because the slices freeze like a dream.

What are people saying?

Even though this has only recently hit the Costco bakery, the internet is abuzz with thoughts on the dessert. Reddit users left comments like, “It’s freakin DELISH!” and “My two favorite things in one!!” Over on the @costcohotfinds Instagram, people are equally obsessed. One user said, “I already bought one and getting another one! It’s so good! Very light and not super sweet.” Many expressed the sentiment, “BRB running there now!” One comment even said, “I now need to get my Costco membership renewed just for this.”

The post Costco Just Dropped a Tiramisu-Cheesecake Mashup—and the Internet Is All Over It appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What is this magical Aldi product?

Of course, I’m talking about Berryhill Hot Honey. Blink and you’ll miss it: This product is nestled among the super market chain’s other condiments, including the regular honey in its cute bear-shaped packaging. It retails at my local Aldi for $4.95, and I buy it every time I see it because I’m afraid that it’s going to disappear and never come back.

The balance of this hot honey is perfect. It’s not too sweet, has a strong kick of heat and is overall satisfying and flavorful. I have two ways that I like to use it: One is drizzled over pizza right after I take it out of the oven (I like putting extra on the crust and letting it caramelize a bit), and the other is on avocado toast. I know, I know, you can thank me later. But aside from being a finishing touch on a dish or snack, hot honey adds great flavor to everything from wings to salad dressings.

How long will the hot honey be available?

Here’s the thing: I have no idea how long this magical product will be available. You know how Aldi finds come and go! My local Aldi has it in a box that says “Seasonal,” so I’m nervous that it won’t be a year-round staple. But I’m not convinced that winter is the only season when people want to enjoy hot honey, so maybe Aldi will keep it around longer. Either way, the next time you’re at Aldi, grab one. Or three.

The post The One Aldi Product I Simply Can’t Live Without appeared first on Taste Recipes.

While browsing the upcoming Aldi Finds, I noticed something very cheap and very cute. You might even say that it has me starry-eyed!

What’s the new $1.99 Aldi find?

If you love stocking up on pantry staples at Aldi, then you’ll already know that they have an incredible bronze-cut pasta line from their in-house Italian brand, Priano. This is my absolute favorite pasta to cook with, and so I was delighted to see that Aldi added a new pasta shape to the Priano lineup: stars.

I don’t know how closely you follow pasta news, but this is a huge deal. Back in 2023, pasta brand Ronzoni announced that they would be discontinuing their star-shaped pastina. Pastina just means “little pasta,” but boy, did this little pasta announcement have a big impact. People started hoarding boxes of pastina, and some were selling on eBay for upwards of $40/box.

Now, thanks to Aldi, you can enjoy these delightful stars for $1.99. It’s a great way to add personality to your chicken noodle soup recipe. What’s more, Aldi is bringing bronze-cut orzo to its shelves as well, so it’s a great time to bookmark some orzo recipes!

When will it be available?

Both the stars and orzo drop at Aldi on Wednesday, February 19. Most Aldi finds fly off the shelf pretty fast, and since there’s no word on whether this pasta shape will be part of the regular Priano lineup, you should plan on making an Aldi run ASAP.

The post This $1.99 Aldi Find Is Going to Fly Off the Shelf appeared first on Taste Recipes.

Trader Joe’s

One of our favorite places to find the best frozen foods and other unusual treats, Trader Joe’s also carries the basics, including eggs. In response to the supply shortage, the shop is limiting egg purchases to one dozen eggs per customer per day.

As long as you prepare them properly, eggs should be safe to eat despite the ongoing bird flu.

Costco

This bulk chain is famous for affordable groceries (especially when you’re in the know with Costco shopping tips). Recently, dozens of viral TikTok videos have shown Costco customers stockpiling cartloads of eggs. Perhaps due to the rampant hoarding, many locations are limiting customers to three dozen eggs.

Remember: Panic-buying eggs isn’t a good idea and will only make the problem worse! But if you did buy more eggs than you needed and you’re getting close to that printed sell-by date, try the float test to check if your eggs are fresh.

Kroger

At many Kroger stores, customers can only buy two cartons of eggs at a time. Since the lack of eggs means prices are up, cutting back on eggs is a smart choice anyway. Try making more breakfast ideas without eggs, like yogurt, oatmeal, granola, muffins and wraps.

Safeway

Safeway doesn’t have a company-wide limit on egg purchases, but individual stores have started limiting customer purchases, usually to two dozen eggs per day. San Francisco Bay Area stores are among those affected.

Whole Foods

So far, Whole Foods has not set a nationwide standard for egg purchases. However, individual stores are limiting purchases, and customers have reported finding empty shelves rather than the usual abundance of eggs.

Cage-free eggs may be even more in demand, as customers perceive them as safer than regular eggs. The truth is that all types of eggs are safe, but they differ in their sustainability.

Giant

Unlike many other chains, Giant has not implemented any limits on egg purchases—for now. Shoppers should still limit themselves to the eggs they need, though. Eschewing stockpiling ensures that there’s enough for everyone.

Aldi

Aldi customers are famously loyal to the slightly quirky grocery chain, primarily because Aldi’s groceries are so cheap. While no nationwide rule is in place regarding eggs, customers are rushing to Reddit and other social sites to share their local stores’ policies. Many shops reportedly have a limit of two dozen eggs per visit.

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Like the Costco hot dog, other food court menu items have a cult following. Customers used to love Costco churros, but for some reason, the original treat is no longer available. Members were shocked when Costco discontinued the churros, but then again, we aren’t immune to controversial food court decisions. I decided to find a replacement to satisfy our cravings.

Why did Costco get rid of churros?

For years, cinnamon sugar-coated churros were a staple at the Costco food court. The traditional straight churros sold for $1. For unknown reasons, they were removed from the menu during the pandemic, much to the chagrin of loyal customers. Costco eventually brought back churros, but this time with a twist—literally. The “twisted” churros arrived on the menu in 2021 but didn’t last long. In early 2024, churros disappeared from the menu completely. Their sweet slot was filled with a giant chocolate chip cookie for $2.49.

Where do I find copycat Costco churros?

Since the churros disappeared from the Costco menu, members have been searching for an alternative. Some say that the brand Costco used on its menu was from a company called Tio Pepes, and could be purchased in bulk from Walmart or Amazon. However, since they come in a case of 100, you would need a lot of freezer space for this option. I scoured the freezer sections at Costco, Trader Joe’s and Aldi, looking for a more convenient solution. All three stores said they had frozen churros at one point or another but didn’t currently have any in stock.

Luckily, one non-chain grocery store near me carries the Goya brand of frozen churros. I bought a box, put them in a 400°F oven for five minutes and tossed the hot churros with the included cinnamon sugar packet. If you have a local grocery store that carries Goya churros, it’s a good option when a Costco churro craving hits.

On our quest to find a replacement for the Costco churros, one unlikely source came into the picture. Subway recently introduced a new Footlong menu for snacking under $5. It includes a 12-inch cookie, a pretzel and…a churro! Ultimately, this was the best replacement for our beloved Costco churros. Being on the Footlong menu, the churros are oversized, exactly like what we were used to at Costco. The only caveat is that Subway churros cost $2, twice as much as the beloved Costco original.

The post This Is the Best Dupe for Costco’s Food Court Churros appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What is this magical Aldi kitchen tool?

Cooking, I love it. Oil splatters? Not so much. Layering up with an apron may work to protect your clothes, but I’m usually halfway through cooking and decidedly covered in oil by the time I remember that I have one hanging in the pantry. Even if I somehow remember to don an apron, that doesn’t do anything to protect my stovetop or walls from the splash zone, which makes cleanup a headache.

Aldi has swooped in to save me and my kitchen with its Crofton Stainless Steel Splatter Guard—which is a steal at $4.99.

The splatter guard rests neatly on top of any pan to minimize mess while pan-frying ingredients. I would argue that you could also use it as a sifter if you need to add a bit of cornstarch or flour to your pan to thicken a sauce. It has a cute enameled handle in a pretty mint green—a color Aldi has been using lately for its cooking tools (very convenient for me since that’s my kitchen accent color). Storing the splatter guard will be a breeze, since it’s flat and can easily slip into whatever corner of your kitchen is free.

How long will it be available for?

The splatter guard should be in stock for about a week or so after launch. As any fan of Aldi products will know, the company’s tagline of “here today, gone tomorrow” rings especially true for kitchen gadgets. If you feel like this splatter guard is your new kitchen must-have, I’d make a trip to the store as soon as possible. As if you needed another excuse to make an Aldi run!

Next Up: This is why Aldi barcodes are so big.

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Since we go through extract like water in my house, the Costco vanilla has been one of the best perks of membership for us!

How does the vanilla compare to more expensive brands?

First of all, the Costco vanilla is pure vanilla extract, not imitation vanilla. I was suspicious, given the price tag. Finding the real deal is hurdle number one when I’m buying vanilla, and accidentally buying imitation is a common vanilla mistake. The imitation stuff is much cheaper than the real thing, but it has the quality to match.

I scrutinized the label and determined that Costco vanilla is pure vanilla extract. Usually, if I want the best of the best vanilla extract, I swallow the cost of Nielsen-Massey vanilla. However, a bottle of this liquid gold costs upward of $37 for only 8 ounces, half the amount of extract that Costco sells. I still keep a bottle of Nielsen-Massey for extra special desserts, but it’s simply too expensive for everyday use. I needed an extract that was nearly as good but less expensive, so I brought the Costco vanilla home for a taste test.

Upon opening the bottle, the aroma immediately impressed me. It was rich and smooth, exactly what bakers look for to take any recipe to the next level. The label doesn’t specify what type of vanilla is used to make this extract. It simply says that it is extracted and bottled in the U.S. using imported vanilla beans.

After using this extract in cookies, cakes and homemade ice cream, I am convinced that ounce-for-ounce, this product is the best value for pure vanilla extract. The flavor is complex without an artificial aftertaste. For anyone who is a frequent baker but can’t stomach the price tag of fancy brands, Costco vanilla is for you. I have a new-ish bottle with a best-by date of 2029, so your purchase will last quite a while.

Is the vanilla always at Costco?

For as long as I have been a member, this vanilla has always been on the shelf at Costco. While it doesn’t have Kirkland Signature branding, it is distributed by the Costco Wholesale Corporation in Washington state. That gives me hope that this Costco staple will be available for many years to come.

The post This $10 Vanilla at Costco Is an Absolute Steal appeared first on Taste Recipes.

And as much as we love their current offerings, Costco’s new flaky, buttery pastry knocks everything else out of the water. It’s time to talk about the brand-new almond croissant pastry at Costco.

What is the Costco almond croissant pastry?

The latest addition to the Costco bakery section is a twist on the classic French delicacy. This treat takes everything you love about a buttery croissant and kicks it up a notch with the addition of an almond filling, sliced almonds on top, and a dusting of powdered sugar.

Available right now, these almond croissants are certainly sweeter than their original croissant counterparts. Also, they aren’t in the traditional crescent moon shape. Instead, the dough is folded over a decadent marzipan-flavored center and baked in a muffin tin. The folded shape and sweet taste almost reminded me of a large kouign-amann at first glance.

With this pastry, every bite is more interesting than the last. The pleasant crunch from the almond topping is a delightful contrast to the tender, sweet almond center. Even though something like this could easily become dense, the light, flaky layers of the pastry keep it from being overwhelming. These pastries taste great right out of the box, or they can be warmed up for a few minutes in the oven for that fresh-from-the-bakery experience.

How long will it be in stores?

It’s hard to know if a product spotted in Costco is a limited-time only deal. The retailer frequently rotates inventory to keep every visit new and exciting. This is especially true in the bakery, where seasonal treats rotate in and out. Since we won’t know for sure how long these almond croissant pastries will stick around, it is definitely worth it to run over there and stock up.

At a time when grocery store prices seem to be going up and up, Costco has dropped the price of its Kirkland products. These pastries come in a package of six for $11.99, making each one about $2.00. I think that’s a steal since these huge treats are a better deal than you’d find in a coffee shop or bakery.

Even if you can’t get through the whole package of six right away, they can certainly be individually wrapped and frozen to enjoy later.

The post Costco’s Bakery Has a Pastry That Will Change Your Life appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The most recent strain of bird flu, H5N1, has been found in humans, most of whom are farm workers. This raises concerns about the potential danger of eating infected poultry or eggs.

So far, no evidence says a person can get bird flu by eating poultry, but there are steps you can take to stay safe.

Can you catch bird flu from eating chicken?

The first thing to know is that it’s very unlikely that infected birds will enter the food supply. As part of the USDA’s response to the bird flu epidemic, processing plants carefully inspect poultry for any sign of disease.

That said, it’s always important to prepare chicken so it’s safe to eat and free of viruses and bacteria, like bird flu, salmonella and E. coli. Make sure to handle raw chicken properly. Keep it in the fridge for only one or two days before cooking it. Wash your hands, cutting board and knife with hot, soapy water after preparing the chicken and cook the chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F. Don’t eat any chicken that’s gone bad.

Can you get bird flu from eggs?

To ensure that eggs are safe, cook them fully—that means the whites and the yolks. Raw eggs are not safe to eat. That has always been true, even before bird flu. Raw and undercooked eggs can contain salmonella, a dangerous bacteria that causes food poisoning and can result in serious illness. Don’t eat runny fried eggs, or raw eggs in any form, like in mayonnaise, cookie dough, cake batter or egg whites in cocktails or desserts.

Finally, take care when cooking. Wash your hands after handling eggs, even if it’s only the shells. Wipe down counters and wash any dishes that come into contact with raw eggs. Don’t leave eggs on the counter; they must be refrigerated. Oh, and if you add milk to scrambled eggs, use a splash of pasteurized milk, not raw milk, which the CDC cautions may contain bacteria and viruses, including bird flu.

The post Is It Safe to Eat Chicken and Eggs Right Now? appeared first on Taste Recipes.

The most popular color, lilac, is set to make a grand return in 2025.

What is the Trader Joe’s cooler bag?

Trader Joe’s cooler bags are exactly what they sound like: insulated bags to keep cold items chilled while on the go. Gotta keep those iconic Trader Joe’s snacks fresh! They come in two convenient sizes: 1.5 gallons and 8 gallons. When they’re in stock, the coolers retail for an affordable $4 for the mini option and $8 for the larger size. Each cooler bag has a Trader Joe’s store graphic emblazoned on the front with palm trees.

Why are people so obsessed?

When I say Trader Joe’s customers are obsessed with these cooler bags, I mean it. TikTok and Reddit are abuzz with chatter about the various colors (they’ve previously come in red, green, orange, yellow, blue, pink and lilac) and what stores carry them. While there isn’t anything proprietary about the cooler bags, folks seem to love them because they’re affordable and useful. The coolers fold flat for easy storage—keep them in your trunk, then bring them to Trader Joe’s to haul home your frozen foods.

Now, though, the bags are something of a cultural symbol. If you want to get your hands on one (before the relaunch), check out secondhand platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Poshmark or Mercari. But be warned—you’ll absolutely be paying up for the bag. I’ve seen the lilac colorway go for as much as $80 online.

When will the cooler bag return to Trader Joe’s?

The chain is tight-lipped about when the purple cooler bag will return. I chatted with a Trader Joe’s employee, who revealed the bag will be back in early 2025, but specifics on the day and month are still under wraps. However, the bag initially popped up in stores at the end of March 2024, so perhaps this year’s relaunch will follow a similar timeline.

The post Here’s Why People Are Obsessed with the Lilac Cooler Bags at Trader Joe’s appeared first on Taste Recipes.

But rumors have begun to swirl, hinting at a major change.

What are the rumors?

Instagram user @costcodeals (and other sources) say Costco will replace all of its Pepsi-related products with Coca-Cola ones. Costco CEO Ron Vachris confirmed this at the company’s annual shareholders meeting on January 23, according to CNN. “We will be converting our food court fountain business back over to Coca-Cola,” he said.

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This is quite the curveball for those who’ve weighed in on the Coke vs. Pepsi debate. However, it turns out that this conversation at Costco isn’t new. Some might remember a time when Coke was Costco’s go-to brand. Before 2013, Costco exclusively sold Coke products in the food court, then switched to Pepsi to help keep costs low (and the hot dog combo so cheap). Coke loyalists were understandably upset by the change.

I’m split on the matter—Wild Cherry Pepsi is one of my all-time favorite drinks, but sometimes nothing hits better than a cold Coke on a hot day.

When will the change happen?

We expect Costco to slowly roll out Coke products to stores nationwide in early 2025. The original switch from Coke to Pepsi took a few years to complete across hundreds of stores nationwide, and the switch back to Coke will likely take about the same amount of time. I hope my Costco store is switched first—fingers crossed!

The post Costco Just Confirmed This Controversial Change to Its Food Court Soda Fountains appeared first on Taste Recipes.

This virus has a high death rate among poultry. The same isn’t true with dairy cows. The virus makes cows sick, but it doesn’t kill them. In fact, most treated cattle recover, and the mortality rate from the virus has been 2% or less. Still, when dairy cattle contract bird flu, it can trigger a variety of health problems, including reduced appetite, lower milk production and abnormal milk appearance. These issues have caused milk production problems at dairy farms throughout the country. The higher mortality rates among poultry, along with other challenges, have triggered egg shortages and price increases as well.

Milk, Butter and Other Dairy

Regulators don’t allow milk from any H5N1-infected dairy cattle to enter our food supply. Instead, dairy farmers must destroy or divert any milk from infected animals. These safety measures protect consumers but can also lead to shortages and higher prices for shoppers during outbreaks.

Milk and dairy products also undergo a pasteurization process before they ever wind up on your local grocery store shelf. As a result, the USDA, FDA and CDC state they don’t have concerns about the safety of the U.S. commercial milk supply.

Raw milk, on the other hand, doesn’t require pasteurization (the process of removing bacteria and germs with high heat). One California-based raw milk dairy farm already issued a voluntary recall in December due to the detection of bird flu in a batch of its product, CBS News reported. And while proponents promote the benefits of raw milk, health officials warn about the bacteria concerns of consuming this product—especially during the current bird flu outbreak.

Beef

The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) says no in-store ground beef samples have tested positive for the H5N1 virus. The agency conducted tests at stores in states where dairy cattle herds have tested positive for the bird flu. So, the USDA feels confident that the U.S. beef supply is safe at this time. Beef shortages, on the other hand, continue to be an issue for shoppers.

It’s worth mentioning that cooking beef to a temperature as low as 120°F can substantially inactivate the virus, according to the USDA. (Cooking to 160° is the USDA’s recommended temperature for ground beef.)

Eggs and Poultry

It’s no surprise that the continuing bird flu outbreak is impacting the prices and availability of eggs and poultry products. However, despite the large number of infected poultry in the U.S., the decline in egg production may be less severe than many consumers expect. According to USDA projections, the country will only experience a 1% decline in egg production in 2024.

It’s safe to conclude that intermittent egg shortages and rumors have pushed shoppers into panic-buying mode. And when thousands of shoppers buy double or triple their normal egg and poultry supply at a time, real shortages and price increases tend to follow.

What can you do as a shopper?

Despite reassurances of food safety from the USDA, CDC and FDA, American households are left with another concern. Intermittent food shortages, recalls and the destruction of milk supplies from an ongoing outbreak (not to mention panic buying among many shoppers) have combined to cause higher prices on a wide range of essential foods. Thanks to the bird flu, the cost of milk, butter, beef, eggs and poultry items has been trending upward for some time.

As a shopper, you unfortunately have little control over many of the factors that cause sporadic food shortages or trigger price fluctuations. But you can take steps to save money on your grocery bill where possible.

If you find a good sale on butter, beef or poultry, consider buying a little extra and freezing some for later. Also, take the time to research local sales or find the cheapest place to buy groceries in your area. These steps may help you stretch your overall food budget further so you can offset the higher prices on grocery items you can’t control.

The post How the Bird Flu Outbreak Is Affecting the Price of Milk, Eggs and Beef appeared first on Taste Recipes.

15. Milk Chocolate Gingerbread Hearts

These indulgent treats feature a mix of milk chocolate and gingerbread with an apricot fruit filling. The bite-sized, heart-shaped desserts are imported from Germany. While we liked the unique flavor combination, ultimately, these snacks fell short in our lineup. The gingerbread spices were too mild to make us come back for more, and this milk chocolate wasn’t as high quality as the other treats we sampled.

14. Dark Chocolate Peppermint Marshmallows

These eye-catching marshmallows are shaped like Christmas trees, and the inside is tinted with a festive green hue. Each peppermint-flavored marshmallow is dipped in dark chocolate for an extra special snack. These would make for fun and festive Christmas s’mores or would be adorable when dropped into a mug of homemade hot cocoa. We would definitely pick up a box while decorating a gingerbread house as well.

13. Cherry Stollen

Stollen is a classic European holiday bread, and the loaves at Aldi are made in Germany. The Aldi stollen is available in several traditional flavors, including almond, marzipan, apple and cherry. We picked up the cherry variety for a taste test.

We were pleased with the addition of the marzipan rope nestled throughout the loaf, and appreciated the classic shape. However, we found this stollen dense and dry. A slice might be nice with a cup of coffee, but the texture didn’t allow the bread to stand on its own. In addition, the candied cherries had a bit of an artificial aftertaste. We wonder if the other flavors would have been better.

12. Old-Fashioned Peanut Brittle

Peanut brittle is a confection we look forward to every holiday season. The roasted peanuts in a crispy, crunchy coating just can’t be beat. It is a beloved Southern treat that is enjoyed across the country this time of year.

Candy-making is a difficult skill to master, and this peanut brittle recipe came up a bit short. It was too crisp without the depth of flavor we’re used to in homemade peanut brittle.

11. Soft Mini Nougat Bars, Variety Pack

The festive holiday design on the box of these soft mini nougat bars certainly caught our eye. Made in Italy, this package included four distinctive options—chocolate stracciatella, pistachio, strawberry and amaretti cookies.

This snack received high marks for being unique, and we absolutely loved the amaretti cookie flavor. However, each bite was quite sticky, and it took a while to chew. Even though the flavors were fun, it ultimately begs the question: Does anyone really want to eat just nougat?

10. My Mochi Hot Cocoa Ice Cream

We discovered the next Christmas find in the freezer section. Mochi are frozen balls of sweet, pillowy rice dough wrapped around scoops of premium ice cream. Each bite is a delicious dual-texture experience. At only 90 calories each, these frozen snacks are gluten-free and made without any soy ingredients or artificial flavors.

For the holiday season, My Mochi has some festive flavors in its lineup. I selected a box of hot cocoa-flavored ice cream balls to sample. The chocolate flavor was delicate, and I could taste the marshmallows as well. The experience was reminiscent of the frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity 3 in New York City. Enjoying the mochi is easy; all you have to do is remove them from the freezer a minute or two before eating. They were a fun holiday treat that we would definitely buy again before the season is up.

9. Giant Popcorn Mix Tub

There’s something so fun about digging your arm deep into a giant tub of popcorn, especially during Christmastime. These huge tins are great for gifting, and they are always a hit at a party. Aldi sells a budget-friendly 21-ounce tin for under $7.

The inside is divided into three sections: one for caramel corn, another for white cheddar popcorn and, of course, classic butter popcorn. There are also a variety of tin design options to suit any personality. This Aldi find wins high marks for value and gifting possibilities. The popcorn inside might not be the best we’ve ever tasted, but it’s still quite enjoyable. In fact, we even went back to buy another tin as a hostess gift for an upcoming get-together.

8. Pralines

Nestled among the sea of holiday treats at Aldi, we discovered this container of golden-wrapped pralines. This is a product of Italy that consists of milk chocolate pralines made with crispy cereals and a luxurious, creamy hazelnut filling. We were pleasantly surprised by the light texture of these chocolate confections.

The individually wrapped candies were quite eye-catching, and they would look stunning in a Christmas candy dish. The only drawback here was the container. We wish it was more elegant so we could save it and repurpose it next year. You can never have enough cookie tins, right?

7. Chocolate Chip Pecan Meltaway Cookies

This lovely tin is filled with creamy butter cookies made with pecans and chocolate chips and coated with a generous dusting of confectioners’ sugar. From the first bite, we adored the delicate texture of these cookies. Even though they’re filled with pecans and chocolate chips, the light cookies held up to their meltaway moniker. We give these cookies high marks for flavor as well as gifting possibility. We’re going to need to buy a new tin since the contents of this one disappeared so quickly!

6. Pfeffernüsse

Difficult to pronounce but delightful to eat, pfeffernüsse are iced gingerbread cookies from Germany. These traditional cookies are classic holiday treats, and we loved their authentic flavor and texture. The gingerbread spices had just the right proportions of cinnamon, star anise and cloves. We adored the crisp icing contrasted by the tender center. These cookies would make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

5. Music Tin with Sugar Cookies

This musical tin filled with classic sugar cookies wins top marks for the best option for gifting. There is a music key on the bottom of the adorable tin that can be turned to hear a melody. The tins come in four different colors, each with a different song. Red plays “Winter Wonderland,” blue comes with “Jingle Bells,” the white one is “Let It Snow” and this green tin plays “O Christmas Tree.” These are collectible and make a fantastic gift. The cookies inside are reminiscent of Danish butter cookies. Yum!

4. Gelato Flight

You may have heard of wine or beer flights, but this gelato flight is the ideal family-friendly treat for the holidays. Inside the box, you’ll find a trio of holiday-inspired Italian gelato served in individual cups. There is a pumpkin pie-flavored gelato (made with pumpkin puree and spices), a candy cane gelato (mint-flavored and topped with chocolate drops) and a creamy eggnog gelato (spiced with cinnamon).

3. Holiday Macarons

We have always been fans of Aldi’s French macarons, which can be found in the freezer section. It was a delightful surprise to discover a holiday variation! Each box contains 18 assorted macarons in special holiday flavors. There’s chocolate orange, chocolate hazelnut, gingerbread, peppermint, pistachio and vanilla.

These treats are imported from France. We loved every bite of their perfect texture and delectable flavors. It’s a major bonus that they’re made without artificial colors or flavors. There is also an added level of convenience since these macarons are kept in the freezer and then simply defrosted in the refrigerator before serving. This is a high-end treat without a price tag to match.

2. Candy Cane Chocolate Covered Almonds

These roasted almonds covered in dark and white chocolate mixed with crushed candy cane were a surprise hit in the taste test. The flavor of the coated almonds was refreshing and almost tasted like a delightful after-dinner mint. They are the sort of treat that you pour into a decorative candy dish and set out for guests. However, they are so delicious that you also might find yourself grabbing a few each time you pass by throughout the day. Beware, they disappear quickly! Pick up a couple of bags, just to be safe.

1. Panettone Cake with Orange Peel and Raisins

Coming in as our number one favorite Christmas find at Aldi was a traditional panettone cake with orange peel and raisins. This was one of two holiday flavors we found on store shelves, along with a chocolate chip version.

Each cake is made in Italy. Many stores carry panettone this time of year, and we had no idea how the Aldi version would stand up to the competition. We were floored when this one was head and shoulders above others we have tried recently. Besides the fantastic flavor of this festive cake, the price simply can’t be beat. With some panettone costing well over $10 or $20, the $6 Aldi panettone is a steal. Besides that, each cake is a nice size with a lofty height. We found ourselves craving a slice each morning for breakfast, along with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. In all honesty, we have already bought three this holiday season and will likely pick up another one before New Year’s resolutions kick in!

The post The Best Aldi Christmas Finds, Reviewed and Ranked appeared first on Taste Recipes.

What causes the rainbow sheen on ham?

That metallic-looking rainbow that often appears on sliced deli meat is known as iridescence, a phenomenon in which changing your position to the object causes its colors to “shimmer” and shift.

You probably also encounter this whenever you see a bit of gasoline splashed onto wet pavement. In that example, the gasoline doesn’t mix with water, but sits on top of it, forming a thin floating layer of liquid that reflects light differently from the way the surface of water does. The rainbow coloring comes from the fact that different areas of the gasoline layer have different thicknesses, and each area reflects a different band of the white light spectrum (ROYGBIV!). To the human eye, this looks like the gasoline takes on many different colors at once.

The same can happen in deli meat, as a thin layer of fat or oil from the animal tissue can sit on the surface of our cold cuts and reflect light differently. Deli meat sliced from whole cuts of an animal is prepared by cutting against the grain of the tissue, leading to exposed, severed fibers that diffract the light and cause us to see rainbows. (This, by the way, is why you don’t see shiny bologna—those fibers have long since been emulsified by the time you eat a slice.)

Slate explains that these severed fibers only create a metallic sheen when the grooves between them are properly aligned to diffract light. This iridescence is more likely to occur in cooked or cured meat, like cold cuts, because the fibers are rendered firm in the cooking process. While other meats might undergo the same phenomenon, we tend to associate it most with ham and roast beef where the shiny reflections are most pronounced.

Does the rainbow color on deli meat mean it’s bad?

The presence of a metallic sheen on your ham or roast beef is nothing to worry about in and of itself; diffraction doesn’t make food any less safe. The USDA notes that “spoiled cooked beef would probably also be slimy or sticky and have an off-odor.” For best results, fresh sliced deli meat should be kept refrigerated at all times and used within three to five days.

The post If Your Ham Has a Rainbow Sheen, This Is Why appeared first on Taste Recipes.