Costco discontinues popular ingredient – shoppers say recipes will never be the same again

COSTCO members are reeling after learning of the retailer’s discontinuation of a long-time favorite ingredient.

Costco shoppers remain loyal to the chain because of its quality products and large portions.

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That doesn’t mean the wholesaler is above criticism though – many have spoken out against it after the store discontinued its Litehouse freeze-dried garlic.

These jars were huge and packed in 45 cloves of garlic for only $5.79.

Shoppers loved adding them to dips, sauces and soups.

The chef-loved item will be disappearing this spring, so make sure you snag it before it’s gone.

“I’m going to miss these foodservice sized jars,” one shopper commented on Reddit.

Keep in mind that Litehouse isn’t stocking its entire line at Costco, just the freeze-dried garlic.

This means its new products like the freeze-dried herbs and blue cheese dressing are still safe to buy in stores.

Costco operates more than 550 warehouses across the United States

KNOW IF A PRODUCT IS DISAPPEARING

While discontinued items at Costco are typically announced on social media in the weeks leading up to their sale, there’s a specific way shoppers can identify which items will be discontinued next.

Both the price tag and the price itself can be indicators of an upcoming product end date.

You will find a small asterisk on the price tag. This is so well known that Costco buyers have even dubbed the symbol the “Death Star.”

When it comes to pricing, a label ending in 97 cents usually means the item is also nearing its end.

NEW PRODUCTS

Out with the old and in with the new is the name of Costco’s game as it introduces new items to coincide with Litehouse’s departure.

The wholesaler has added a £4.5 cake to its bakery, which has brought great joy to fans of the store.

The delicious treat has a buttery graham cracker crumb crust centered with a peanut butter chocolate mousse filling.

There have also been reports recently that Costco is bringing back its famous half sheet cakes.

Some stores sell the dessert at an elevated price of $25.

EARN MORE SAVINGS AT COSTCO

Costco is already offering buyers low prices for bulk items.

However, some savvy shoppers have unveiled strategies to get even more bang for your buck.

Number one, look at Costco’s coupon book. There you can find hidden discounts and savings that are not obvious just by looking at the price tag.

Sites like Coupons.com and Ibotta may also offer additional discounts on products, and cashback apps like Ibotta will even refund you on certain purchases.

Costco also generally offers huge end-of-season discounts.

This means patio furniture and pool toys will be available at super cheap prices by the end of the summer.

Likewise, Christmas products should be purchased right after the holidays are over for the best savings.

Above all, come to the store with a list and don’t be fooled by impulse purchases.

Costco fans were thrilled to hear the Pull-A-Part Cinnamon Rolls were back in stores.

However, buyers have raised concerns after Costco made a major change to its free sample system.