Shopping at Costco is an experience that many people enjoy for several reasons. From its highly competitive prices to exclusive products and the free samples you can try while walking through the store. However, one of the most valued aspects for members is, without a doubt, its famous food court.
Recently, Costco has made changes that affect this very popular space. In addition to modifying its menu, it has implemented restrictions on access and issued an important warning for those who suffer from food allergies. This new policy aims to protect both its customers and the company, but it has caused concern among some consumers.
Menu changes and limited access
In recent years, Costco has reviewed and updated its food court offerings. Some traditional products, such as churros, have been removed and replaced by others like the giant chocolate cookie, an option that hasn't pleased all followers. In addition, new shakes have been added, such as the strawberry and banana smoothie and a frozen strawberry lemonade.
An important change is that, unlike before, now only registered members can enjoy meals at the food court. This measure aims to reduce fraudulent sharing of memberships and better control the flow of people inside the stores, according to The Street. Although some customers have expressed annoyance over this restriction, Costco insists that it's necessary to keep good service and avoid overcrowding.
Warning about food allergies
Costco has posted notices in its food courts to warn that its products may contain or have come into contact with common allergens. These include milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and sesame. For this reason, the company can't guarantee that any food is completely free of these ingredients.
For example, the vanilla ice cream, although it's served from an exclusive machine, could have cross-contamination with allergens such as fish or sesame. Likewise, products like pizza or hot dogs don't contain peanuts in their recipe, but they can't ensure that there hasn't been accidental contact during preparation. This forces people with allergies to avoid certain foods to prevent severe reactions.
In addition, the ingredients used in the food court may vary depending on the production batch. A user on Reddit commented that he has to ask every time what the food contains, because the recipe isn't always the same. Another customer expressed his frustration because Costco doesn't publish a detailed list of ingredients for its food court products.
This warning is a way for Costco to protect itself legally and reduce the risk of incidents that could result in liabilities for the company. Although it's an understandable measure, it creates confusion among customers with dietary restrictions, who find their options limited and demand greater transparency.