Costco, one of the largest wholesale retailers in the United States, is known for its quality products and customer-friendly policies. However, like any major retailer, Costco occasionally faces product recalls due to safety concerns, contamination risks, or labeling errors.
In 2024 and early 2025, several high-profile recalls have affected Costco shoppers, ranging from food items to household appliances. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the most significant Costco recalls during this period, why they happened, and what consumers should do if they’ve purchased affected products.
Why Do Product Recalls Happen?
Product recalls occur when a product is found to be defective, contaminated, or potentially harmful. These issues can stem from manufacturing errors, supply chain mishaps, or failure to disclose allergens. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) oversee recalls, ensuring consumer safety. Costco typically notifies affected customers via email, text, phone calls, or letters and posts recall notices on its website for transparency.
Major Costco Recalls in 2024-2025
1. Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs
In November 2024, Costco and supplier Handsome Brook Farms recalled 10,800 cartons of Kirkland Signature Organic Pasture Raised 24-Count Eggs due to potential salmonella contamination. The FDA classified this as a Class I recall, indicating a high risk of serious health consequences or death.
The affected eggs, identified by UPC code 9661910680, Julian code 327, and a use-by date of January 5, 2025, were sold in 25 Costco stores across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
The issue arose when eggs not intended for retail were mistakenly packaged and distributed. No illnesses have been reported, but consumers are urged to return the eggs to Costco for a full refund or discard them. Salmonella can cause symptoms like diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps, with severe risks for young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.
2. Kirkland Signature Butter Quarters
In October 2024, Costco recalled nearly 80,000 pounds of Kirkland Signature Unsalted and Salted Sweet Cream Butter due to a labeling error. The products, totaling 1,300 cases of unsalted butter (46,800 pounds) and 900 cases of salted butter (32,400 pounds), failed to include a “Contains Milk” statement, posing a risk to those with milk allergies.
The FDA classified this as a Class II recall, indicating a lower risk of severe health issues. Affected products were sold primarily in Texas, and customers were advised to return them for a full refund.
3. Kirkland Signature Severe Cold and Flu Plus Congestion
In late 2024, LNK International Inc. recalled Kirkland Signature Severe Cold and Flu Plus Congestion medicine (lot number P140082) due to potential contamination with foreign materials during manufacturing. Sold nationwide between October 30 and November 30, 2024, the medicine posed a risk during peak flu season.
Costco urged customers to check their packages and return affected products for a refund. Consumers can contact LNK at 1-800-426-9391 or via email at complaints-inquiries@lnkintl.com for more information.
4. Topo Chico Mineral Water
In June 2025, Costco recalled 18-packs of Topo Chico Mineral Water (16.9-ounce glass bottles, lot code #13A2541) sold in Texas and Louisiana due to potential contamination with Pseudomonas bacteria.
While the risk to healthy individuals is low, those with weakened immune systems could face infections affecting the skin, blood, or lungs. Customers were advised to return the product to Costco for a refund and could contact Coca-Cola at 1-800-438-2653 for further details.
5. Foster Farms Frozen Chicken Patties
In October 2022, a recall affecting 148,000 pounds of Foster Farms Frozen Chicken Patties was issued due to potential contamination with hard, clear plastic pieces. Classified as a Class I recall, this issue posed a risk of injury due to sharp plastic.
The affected products were sold in Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah, and Washington. Although no injuries were reported, only 71,800 pounds were recovered, prompting consumers to discard or return the product.
6. LG Branded Electric Ovens
In теперішній час, approximately 500,000 LG-branded electric ovens sold at Costco and other retailers were recalled due to a fire hazard. The ovens’ front-mounted knobs could be accidentally turned on, leading to 28 reported fires, multiple injuries, and pet deaths.
Affected models include LDE4411ST, LSE4611ST, and others, sold between 2015 and January 2025. Customers were advised to contact LG at 800-399-3265 or visit lgecares.com/rangerecall for repair or refund options.
What Should Consumers Do?
If you’ve purchased a recalled product, follow these steps:
- Check Product Details: Verify lot numbers, UPC codes, or model numbers against recall notices on Costco’s website or the FDA/CPSC websites.
- Stop Using the Product: Do not consume or use recalled items, as they may pose health or safety risks.
- Return to Costco: Costco offers full refunds for recalled products, no receipt required in most cases.
- Contact the Manufacturer: For specific questions, use the provided contact numbers or emails listed in recall notices.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for Costco’s recall notifications and ensure your contact information is updated in their system to receive timely alerts.
How Costco Handles Recalls
Costco is proactive in managing recalls, contacting affected customers directly and posting detailed notices on its website. The retailer’s commitment to customer safety is evident in its swift response to issues, such as the egg and butter recalls, and its generous return policy. However, some customers have reported missing notifications due to outdated contact information, so it’s crucial to keep your membership profile current.
Conclusion
Costco’s recalls in 2024 and 2025 highlight the complexities of large-scale supply chains. While the retailer strives to maintain high standards, occasional issues like contamination or labeling errors are inevitable. By staying informed and acting quickly, consumers can protect their health and safety.
Check Costco’s recall page regularly, update your contact information, and return affected products promptly to take advantage of Costco’s hassle-free refund policy. Stay vigilant, and keep your pantry and home safe from recalled items.