Costco's New Chef Salad Offers High Protein, But Dietitian Urges Caution
The Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad boasts 59 grams of protein but also contains 840 calories, prompting a nutritionist to advise consumers to consider the overall nutritional profile.
Costco's latest food court addition, the Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad, has become a notable item for its high protein content, but a registered dietitian nutritionist advises consumers to look beyond just the protein numbers. The salad, priced at $7.99, contains 59 grams of protein and 840 calories.
Ingredients in the salad include rotisserie chicken, hard-boiled eggs, bacon bits, shredded cheddar cheese, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, and a creamy peppercorn ranch dressing. While the protein comes from components like chicken and eggs, and the dish includes vegetables, its overall calorie count is significant for a meal.
Jamie Lee McIntyre, a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Florida, emphasized that protein is only one aspect of a food's nutritional value. "A food can be high in protein, but it can also still be high in sodium, saturated fat or calories," McIntyre stated.
She noted that the Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad is built on "good whole foods" like chicken and eggs, with the addition of vegetables, which are positive attributes. However, she cautioned that 840 calories might be excessive for some individuals seeking a light lunch.
Other items on Costco's food court menu also offer substantial protein. The Chicken Caesar Salad provides 58 grams of protein, and the Chicken Bake contains 53 grams. These figures place the Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad at the top of the menu for protein content.
Customer reception to the new salad has been varied. Some patrons on Reddit have commented on the proportions of ingredients, with one user noting "Tons of toppings, not enough lettuce. Salty for a salad." Others have expressed positive feedback, with one individual stating, "I am not a salad person, but I love this dressing."
Costco has been a subject of discussion for its food court offerings, with previous reports highlighting customer interest in items like their new desserts and changes in pricing for other staples. Fox News Digital reached out to Costco for comment on the Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad.