As a seasoned Costco shopper for over a decade, I’ve come to rely on the superstore for a wide variety of essentials—from bulk groceries to household items.
But one aisle I never skip is the canned goods section, particularly during the fall season when certain pantry staples become essential for hearty recipes.
Costco’s unbeatable prices, premium quality, and bulk sizes make it the go-to destination for my favorite canned goods. Here are the top three canned items that I buy exclusively from Costco each fall.
Top 3 Costco Fall Canned Goods
1. Kirkland Signature Organic Diced Tomatoes
Price: $8.79 for 8 (14.5-ounce) cans
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 25
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbs: 5g
- Protein: 1g
There’s a reason why I recommend Kirkland Signature Organic Diced Tomatoes to every new Costco member.
While there are countless enticing products throughout the store, these diced tomatoes are a hidden gem. From soups and stews to pasta sauces, you’d be surprised how many recipes call for a can of diced tomatoes.
Each can contains organic tomatoes, packed with flavor and ready to use. They come in a standard 14.5-ounce size, just like what you’d find at a traditional grocery store.
However, the price difference is staggering. At Costco, you can snag eight cans for $8.79, which breaks down to about $1.10 per can.
In contrast, my local grocery store in Tampa, Florida, charges anywhere between $2.50 and $3.00 for a single can of organic diced tomatoes. The savings alone make Costco the best place to stock up for fall cooking.
2. Wild Planet Albacore Wild Tuna
Price: $15.99 for 6 (5-ounce) cans
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 90
- Fat: 1.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Carbs: 0g
- Protein: 21g
Tuna is a pantry staple for me, especially when I need to whip up a quick dinner. It’s a high-protein option that’s perfect for dishes like tuna noodle casserole, stir-fries, and tuna salad. Costco carries several brands of canned tuna, but my absolute favorite is the Wild Planet Albacore Tuna.
The quality is second to none. Hand-packed and responsibly fished, Wild Planet ensures that the tuna maintains its texture and flavor. At my local grocery store, one can of Wild Planet costs a hefty $5.53.
Costco, however, sells a six-pack for just $15.99, which brings the cost down to $2.67 per can—nearly half the price!
3. Swanson’s Lower Sodium Chicken Broth
Price: $8.99 for 12 (14-ounce) cans
Nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 15
- Fat: 0g
- Sodium: 570mg
- Carbs: 1g
- Protein: 1g
Swanson’s Lower Sodium Chicken Broth is an absolute must-have in my kitchen, especially during the colder months when soups, casseroles, and risottos are on heavy rotation.
While homemade chicken stock is always a great option, it’s not always convenient. That’s why I always keep a few cans of this broth on hand. I prefer the lower sodium version, as it allows me to control the salt content in my dishes.
At Costco, you can pick up a 12-pack of 14-ounce cans for just $8.99, which averages out to about $0.75 per can. At other grocery stores, a single can could cost as much as $1.89, making Costco a more economical choice.
Comparison Table of Top 3 Canned Goods at Costco
| Product | Cost at Costco | Cost at Grocery Store | Savings per Can |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kirkland Organic Diced Tomatoes | $1.10/can | $2.50-$3.00/can | $1.40-$1.90 |
| Wild Planet Albacore Wild Tuna | $2.67/can | $5.53/can | $2.86 |
| Swanson’s Lower Sodium Chicken Broth | $0.75/can | $1.89/can | $1.14 |
Why Costco for Canned Goods?
Costco isn’t just about bulk; it’s about quality and value. Here are a few reasons why Costco is my go-to for canned goods:
- Bulk Convenience: Especially with items like diced tomatoes or chicken broth, which I use frequently in the fall, having an ample supply means fewer trips to the store.
- Organic Options: Costco’s Kirkland brand is known for high-quality organic products at unbeatable prices.
- Sustainability: Products like Wild Planet tuna focus on responsible sourcing, making it a top choice for both quality and sustainability.
Conclusion:
Costco continues to be a go-to destination for high-quality and affordable canned goods, especially during the fall season.
With unbeatable savings on products like Kirkland Signature Organic Diced Tomatoes, Wild Planet Albacore Tuna, and Swanson’s Lower Sodium Chicken Broth, shoppers can enjoy top-tier ingredients at a fraction of the price compared to other retailers.
These pantry staples offer convenience, nutrition, and value, making Costco the ultimate choice for stocking up this fall.
FAQs
1. Why should I buy canned goods at Costco rather than at a regular grocery store?
Costco offers significant savings on high-quality brands, including organic and sustainably sourced products. Plus, buying in bulk ensures you always have what you need on hand.
2. Are Kirkland Signature products good quality?
Absolutely. Kirkland Signature is Costco’s private label, known for offering premium products at lower prices compared to name brands.
3. Is Wild Planet tuna really worth the price?
Yes, Wild Planet tuna is responsibly fished, hand-packed, and retains excellent flavor and texture. Plus, Costco’s pricing makes it much more affordable than traditional grocery stores.
4. Why should I choose low-sodium chicken broth?
Low-sodium broth gives you greater control over the seasoning of your dishes, allowing you to add salt as needed without overpowering your recipes.
5. Can I find these canned goods online at Costco?
While many Costco products are available online, availability can vary by location. It’s best to check both in-store and online for the most up-to-date offerings.
By stocking up on these canned goods at Costco this fall, you’ll not only save money but also ensure your pantry is ready for all your seasonal cooking adventures!