The United States is facing numerous crises such as inflation resulting from Trump’s tariffs or the federal government shutdown and its consequences (although it has since reopened). But one that worries certain Americans has to do with something much more trivial, yet has caused a lot of commotion: the disappearance of Kirkland brand peanut butter from Costco. This can be seen in the comments on social media expressing consumers’ outrage and surprise at not finding the product in Costco aisles.
While some speculated about a recipe improvement, the chain has confirmed that it is only a temporary removal. According to a post on Reddit by a Costco employee, the temporary suspension of this product is due to the manufacturer, Hampton Farms, running out of Valencia peanuts. The product is expected to be back in stock within three to six months.
Crisis at Costco
Devotees of Kirkland Signature Organic Creamy Peanut Butter have filled social media with comments expressing their concern and outrage at not being able to find this product in Costco stores. On the social media platform Reddit, comments such as “I’m trying to make my recently opened jar last as long as possible!”, “Oh my God!!!!!! I really hope it comes back because Kirkland peanut butter is the best. I just ran out of my two jars,” and “I went to Costco in October and was going to buy two double packs of PB but couldn’t, and the employees didn’t say why they were out”, can be read.
The peanut butter cannot be found in any of the more than 360 Costco stores across the country, which has raised concerns among shoppers. Given the idea that this might be a temporary withdrawal to improve the recipe, as suggested by the Instagram account Costco Food Reviews, some reacted with outrage: “Is this going to be like the diapers? Because their new diapers are absolutely horrible”.
What has happened to the famous peanut butter?
According to information from Reader’s Digest, Costco’s customer service confirmed that the spread has only disappeared temporarily. It is a temporary absence, as they are aware that it is an “active item.” According to a Costco employee and Reddit user, “Hampton Farms customer service said they had run out of Valencia peanuts. In the coming weeks, they will harvest a new crop of Valencia peanuts.” According to this information, the product is expected to be available again within a period of 3 to 6 months.
Alternatives at Costco
Although the Kirkland Signature Organic Creamy Peanut Butter is not available, Costco has a wide variety of alternatives. It offers a two-pack of 28-ounce jars of Naturally More Organic Creamy Peanut Butter, which is priced at approximately $9.98, depending on the store. Other brands are also available, such as Jif Creamy Peanut Butter 48-oz two-pack, which is slightly more expensive at $12.47. For those who prefer a more organic and healthy option, PBfit Organic Peanut Butter Powder is also available in a 30-ounce bag for $15.88.
Other recalls from the Kirkland brand
Peanut butter is not the first product to be recalled and generate this type of response from customers. Following the alert issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Costco recalled the Kirkland Signature Valdobbiadene Prosecco as a precaution and because it posed a potential laceration hazard, which was being sold for $8. In fact, buyers who still have one at home are advised not to consume it for safety reasons.