There are a lot of treasures on Costco shelves. This membership-based warehouse store is a go-to destination for bulk grocery shopping, offering everything from fresh produce to frozen meals—and oftentimes, there are tons of healthy options to choose from. But your choices in the frozen aisle can make or break your health efforts. while convenience is key, not all frozen foods are created equal—especially when it comes to heart health.
A TikTok from Eat This, Not That highlights some of the worst frozen food options at Costco, according to dietitians—and they can be a real nightmare for your cardiovascular health, for particular. The dietitians at ETNT warn against Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pies, Bibigo Beef Bulgogi Mandu, and Pierre Signatures Angus Cheeseburgers. Learn about the specific risks of each below.
1. Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pies
Frozen pot pies are delicious and undeniably convenient. However, this flaky comfort food comes at a nutritional cost. A single Marie Callender’s Chicken Pot Pie packs in tons of calories, fat, and up to nearly 80% of the recommended daily sodium intake in just one serving. High sodium levels can contribute to high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
"The crust often contains shortening or hydrogenated oils, which contribute to clogged arteries, and the high sodium content elevates blood pressure," says Dr. Bhaskar Semitha, a Cardiologist from Clinic Spots. Over time, these factors can increase plaque buildup and cause arterial narrowing. As a healthier but equally tasty option, he suggests a homemade chicken and vegetable stew using low-sodium broth. "It’s just as hearty but without the heart strain." Noted!
2. Bibigo Beef Bulgogi Mandu
Korean dumplings are incredible delicious, but Costco’s Bibigo Beef Bulgogi Mandu might not be the best choice for heart-conscious shoppers. While they contain real beef and tasty seasonings, they're also loaded with sodium, saturated fat, and added sugar, all of which spell trouble for your heart.
A serving of these dumplings contains 660 milligrams of sodium. Over time, excessive sodium intake can strain the heart, leading to increased blood pressure. Plus, since these dumplings are pan-fried, it's easy to add more unhealthy fats to the mix.
If you love dumplings, consider for leaner protein fillings (like chicken or tofu), steaming instead of frying, and choosing lower-sodium dipping sauces to look out for your heart—and your overall haelth.
3. Pierre Signatures Angus Cheeseburgers
Cheeseburgers are certainly tasty, and microwavable options offer great convenience. But the unfortunate truth is that the ingredients in these Pierre Signatures Angus Cheeseburgers are terrible for your overall health. Each burger contains a whopping amount of sodium and saturated—both of which can contribute to heart disease over time.
Highly processed meats, like the angus beef in these burgers, have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues due to their high sodium and preservative content. When you add a white bun made from refined carbs to the mix—which means less fiber and less satisfaction—you've got an all-around poor choice for your health.
As a healthier alternative, reach for lean proteins like ground turkey or plant-based alternatives, whole grain buns, and fresh veggies for nutritious toppings.
Bottom Line
The good news is that there are tons of healthy options to help with heart health and weight loss at Costco. However, it's always crucial to be mindful of what you're adding to the cart. Don't forget to check the nutrition label—and steer clear of these frozen foods for good measure.
