Discovering a treasure trove of deals at Costco is akin to stumbling upon a pot of gold. Yet, amidst the allure of bulk savings, lies a cautionary tale — a tale of overpayment and missed opportunities.

In a revealing exposé for Eating Well, seasoned shopper Su-Jit Lin unveils the hidden truths behind Costco’s seemingly irresistible offers. While Lin confesses her fondness for the West Coast giant, she’s quick to remind us: not all that glitters is gold.

Sure, there are gems to be found in the aisles of Costco. From decadent bakery treats to Kirkland’s finest olive oil, the store boasts its fair share of must-haves. But heed this warning: tread carefully through those towering shelves, for not every deal is as sweet as it seems.

Before you surrender to the allure of bulk buying, pause and consider. Lin’s sage advice echoes through the aisles: “Loving Costco is fine — just don’t love it so much that you wind up blinded to its faults.”

So, what are these cautionary tales of overspending? Let’s dive into the seven items you might want to reconsider tossing into your oversized cart.

1. **Milk**: While grabbing a gallon of dairy might seem like a breeze, think twice. Lin’s keen eye reveals you could be shelling out more than necessary.

2. **Sandwich Bread**: Don’t be fooled by the allure of the double-pack. The price might seem tempting, but are you truly getting the best bang for your buck?

3. **Bagged Salad Kits**: Convenience comes at a cost. Lin warns against the illusion of savings, urging shoppers to consider both price and practicality.

4. **Raw Chicken**: The siren call of neatly packaged chicken breasts might beckon, but is it worth the premium price tag?

5. **Herbs and Spices**: Think twice before stocking up on those oversized tubs. Lin’s culinary wisdom reminds us of the importance of freshness in our spice rack.

6. **Canned Soup**: While it’s comforting to have a stash for sick days, is Costco really offering the best deal?

7. **Cereal**: Before you toss those oversized bags into your cart, consider Lin’s words of wisdom. Are you truly maximizing your savings?

As you navigate the labyrinth of bulk buying, remember — knowledge is your greatest asset. Arm yourself with Lin’s insights and shop smarter, not harder. After all, at Costco, every dollar counts.

So, the next time you find yourself wandering the aisles of America’s favorite retailer, keep these words close at heart: not all bargains are created equal.