Kirkland Signature ingredients: what's banned overseas?

About Kirkland Signature

Kirkland Signature is Costco's exclusive private-label brand, spanning hundreds of food, beverage, and household products sold in bulk at Costco warehouse stores nationwide. It generates over $50 billion in annual sales, making it one of the best-selling store brands in the world. Kirkland products are manufactured by major name-brand companies to Costco specifications.

Common concerns with Kirkland Signature products

Several Kirkland Signature processed items — including hot dogs, muffins, and prepared casseroles — contain sodium nitrite, BHT, BHA, mono- and diglycerides, and high-fructose corn syrup. The hot dogs notably contain sodium nitrite, a curing agent classified by the WHO as a probable carcinogen in the context of processed meats. Some bakery items include artificial flavors and refined palm oil. Cleaner Kirkland products (e.g., olive oil, nuts, organic lines) have no significant concerns.