Are There Preservatives Hiding In Costco's Rotisserie Chicken? - Tasting Table

"The meat is coated in seasoning, which the ingredients label identifies as salt, sodium phosphate, modified food starch, potato dextrin, carrageenan, sugar, dextrose, and spice extractives. Sodium phosphate is a preservative commonly used in the food industry to extend the shelf life of meat products and improve their texture."

"Costco defends its use of these preservatives, stating, 'We use carrageenan and sodium phosphate to support moisture retention, texture, and product consistency during cooking. Both ingredients are approved by food safety authorities.'"

"The packaging on Costco's Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken used to claim there were no preservatives in the meat, alongside zero MSG, gluten, artificial flavors and colors, hormones, or steroids. One quick glance at the ingredients label, however, proved the first claim to be incorrect."

Costco's rotisserie chicken, priced at $4.99 for nearly two decades, is a popular prepared food option that can be used in multiple meals. However, the chicken contains several preservatives and additives including sodium phosphate and carrageenan, which are used to extend shelf life, improve texture, and maintain moisture retention during cooking. Both ingredients are approved by food safety authorities. Costco previously advertised the chicken as preservative-free on its packaging, a claim contradicted by the actual ingredients label. This discrepancy between marketing claims and actual ingredients led to a class-action lawsuit filed by customers in early 2026, raising questions about product quality and transparency.

Read at Tasting Table