Discovering Nine Costco Treats Filled with Surprising Amounts of Sugar
Unmasking the "Sneaky Sugar Bombs" at Costco: A Closer Look at Some Popular Snacks
In a recent health analysis, nutritionist Tara Collingwood has highlighted a concerning trend within Costco's snack selection – the presence of high-sugar items that might not immediately appear as such. These "sneaky sugar bombs" are a surprise to many, as they masquerade as reasonable snack choices.
One such example is the Kirkland Soft & Chewy Granola Bars. These seemingly wholesome snacks contain about 12–14 grams of sugar, often sourced from added corn syrup and brown sugar. This sugar content places them closer to candy than a nutritious breakfast option.
Another surprise find is the Yogurt-Covered Pretzels. While the yogurt coating might suggest a healthier alternative, one handful can contain over 18 grams of added sugar, primarily from glucose syrup and confectioner's glaze. This sugar content makes them much higher in sugar than they might seem.
Acai bowls, popular for their perceived health benefits, can also contain significant amounts of sugar. Pre-blended cane sugar is often found in Acai Superfruit Packets, adding to the overall sugar content.
Welch's Fruit Snacks are another culprit, with 11-12 grams of sugar per pouch, primarily from corn syrup. These snacks contain almost no fiber to help balance out the sugar content.
Dried mango slices sold in large bags at Costco can have 24-28 grams of sugar per serving, with half or more of that sugar coming from added sources.
Kodiak Cakes Protein Muffins, marketed as a healthy breakfast option, contain significant amounts of sugar, thanks to brown sugar and chocolate chips. Each muffin contains 15-18 grams of sugar.
Nature's Bakery Fig Bars have 19 grams of sugar per pack, with most of that sugar coming from concentrated fruit and added cane sugar.
Trail Mix with M&Ms or Yogurt Chips at Costco can have 20+ grams of sugar per 1/2 cup serving.
Flavoured Quaker Instant Oatmeal Packets also make the list, with 12-14 grams of sugar, much of it added before you add milk or fruit.
It's essential for consumers to be aware of these hidden sugar sources in popular snacks, especially when shopping at Costco. A closer look at nutrition labels can help make more informed decisions about the snacks we choose.
- The Kirkland Soft & Chewy Granola Bars, marketed as wholesome snacks, contain around 12–14 grams of sugar, making them closer to candy than a nutritious breakfast option.
- While the yogurt coating might suggest a healthier alternative, one handful of Yogurt-Covered Pretzels contains over 18 grams of added sugar.
- Acai bowls, popular for their health benefits, can contain significant amounts of sugar, with pre-blended cane sugar often found in Acai Superfruit Packets.
- Dried mango slices sold at Costco can have 24-28 grams of sugar per serving, with a large portion of that sugar coming from added sources.
- Trail Mix with M&Ms or Yogurt Chips at Costco can have 20+ grams of sugar per 1/2 cup serving, which can be found to be a significant source of added sugar.
