Costco’s rotisserie chicken packaging causes trouble, everyone has opinions

In a recent conversation, we explored a growing concern among Costco shoppers regarding their beloved rotisserie chicken, which has long been a staple due to its affordability and flavor. A TikTok user, who goes by @thejacked.gentleman and claims to be a nutrition expert, shared his alarming experience after eating the chicken twice, leading to feelings of discomfort. His video has garnered over 1.3 million views, stirring a dialogue about food safety.

During the interview, this TikTok user expressed worry that the chicken, once placed in plastic bags, could be prone to bacterial growth. He explained that although the freshly cooked chicken appears perfectly fine, the process of cooling it on a sales counter before customers bring it home could contribute to bacterial contamination. He noted that Costco used to package their rotisserie chickens on black trays, rather than putting them straight into plastic bags containing chemical substances.

Earlier this year, Costco changed its packaging from plastic containers to thinner plastic bags in an effort to reduce plastic waste. However, this decision has raised eyebrows among some customers who complained that the new bags are too flimsy, leading to leaks and storage issues in refrigerators. In response to customer concerns, Consumer Reports conducted a thorough investigation into the safety of these bags. Experts indicated that if chicken juices leak onto kitchen surfaces, it could indeed foster bacterial growth.

Another worry among customers revolves around the potential for chemical leaching from the plastic bags into the chicken due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which could cause some plastic additives to migrate into the food. Tracy Wang, a concerned customer, shared her viewpoint, “Common sense tells us that plastic bags shouldn’t be used for very hot items. Placing freshly cooked rotisserie chicken into a plastic bag right away seems problematic.”

Conversely, some consumers believe that the plastic bags may not be the main issue. They pointed out that any hot, processed food could harbor bacteria if not stored properly. “Cooling food on the counter allows for bacteria to grow; it’s best to put it in the fridge to cool down quickly,” one customer commented. Another asserted that he has eaten bagged chicken throughout his life without any adverse effects, emphasizing the importance of prompt refrigeration to minimize bacterial risks.

Further anecdotal evidence emerged as additional customers reported feeling unwell after consuming Costco’s rotisserie chicken. “I got sick the first time I tried it and haven’t eaten it since,” one shopper admitted, reflecting on the matter with surprise when considering the role of plastic bags.

Daily Dot reached out to Costco for comments on these issues but had not received a response at the time of publication. The conversation continues as customers weigh in on their experiences and the implications for food safety at popular grocery stores.