Hey there, savvy shoppers! If you’re like us, trying to eat healthy and stay on budget in 2025 feels like an epic quest. With grocery prices soaring, finding nutritious options can be a real challenge, but your favorite Costco, known for its amazing deals, is actually a goldmine for healthy eats, and we’re about to reveal our top picks!
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.
Forget sugary cereals; these oats offer a clean foundation for your morning. The magic of oats lies in their soluble fiber, which is fantastic for improving cholesterol levels and supporting 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)**: For those aiming to build muscle without breaking the bank, this variety pack is your new go-to. At just over a dollar per bar, they’re incredibly affordable protein sources, boasting 21-22 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber with minimal added sugar.
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 sizable bag of mini sticks, reasonably priced at around $20, is crafted from grass-fed beef, making healthy snacking more budget-friendly. Each stick offers a satisfying 4 grams of savory protein, perfect for curbing those between-meal cravings with a lean protein boost 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, are more than just a sweet treat; they’re packed with powerful antioxidants that combat cellular damage and a generous amount of dietary fiber, crucial for digestive health.
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.
For about $12 a bag, these offer a much more affordable way to get fruit nutrition compared to expensive out-of-season fresh options. Enjoy them as a pre-workout snack, simmered in oatmeal, added to stews, sliced over yogurt, blended into shakes, or even used to replace sugar and fat in baking.
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!
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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 an excellent addition to your healthy grocery list, providing natural sweetness, essential nutrients, and vibrant color to make healthy eating a genuinely enjoyable experience.
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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 a nutritional powerhouse, loaded with high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals. As our nutritionist friend wisely points out, even conventional eggs, despite the confusing labeling landscape, are a highly nutrient-dense and healthy choice.
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.
The real Costco advantage here is the significantly lower price for a two-count pack compared to buying individual boxes elsewhere, proving that healthier choices don’t have to cost more. Pair them with your favorite nut butter, hummus, guacamole, or even top them with that delicious canned salmon for an elevated snack experience.
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!
So there you have it! From essential pantry items to gut-friendly superfoods and budget-friendly proteins, Costco truly is a haven for healthy eating in 2025. The key is being smart, knowing what to look for, and realizing that nourishing your body doesn’t require draining your bank account. Happy shopping, and here’s to a healthier, happier you!
