Costco Issues Massive Recall for Popular Meatloaf Meal Kit Across 26 States Over Salmonella Risk
SEATTLE, WA — Costco Wholesale Corp. has issued an urgent recall of one of its most popular prepared deli items, the “Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze,” following concerns over potential Salmonella contamination. The recall affects warehouses across 26 states, sparking a nationwide effort to pull the dinner staple from kitchen tables and store shelves.
The retail giant initiated the recall late Tuesday after an ingredient supplier notified the company that a component used in the meal kit’s glaze may have been contaminated. While no illnesses have been officially confirmed to date, Costco is advising members to stop consuming the product immediately and return it for a full refund.
A Proactive Safety Measure
The recall specifically targets meal kits sold in the deli department. According to a statement released by the company, the “Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes and Glaze” was flagged during a routine safety audit conducted by a third-party supplier. The supplier notified Costco that a specific spice blend used in the tomato-based glaze tested positive for Salmonella.
“The health and safety of our members is our top priority,” a Costco spokesperson said in a statement. “Out of an abundance of caution, we are removing all impacted units from our inventory and notifying members who purchased the item during the window of potential exposure.”
Geographic Scope and Affected Products
The recall is significant in scale, spanning 26 states primarily located in the Northeast, Midwest, and West Coast. While the company has not released a comprehensive list of every individual warehouse, members who purchased the item between March 1 and March 17, 2026, are being contacted via automated phone calls and emails.
The affected products are packaged in clear plastic containers with the Costco item number #11161. Customers are encouraged to check the “Sell By” dates on their packaging; any kits with dates ranging from early to mid-March should be discarded or returned.
Understanding the Risks
Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms typically include fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In rare cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and produce more severe illnesses such as arterial infections, endocarditis, and arthritis.
Health officials recommend that anyone who has consumed the meatloaf kit and is experiencing these symptoms should contact a healthcare provider immediately. Most people recover within four to seven days without treatment, but hydration is key during recovery.
What Consumers Should Do Next
Costco has a long-standing reputation for its robust return policy, and this recall is no exception. Customers who have purchased the Meatloaf with Mashed Yukon Potatoes are urged to:
- Do not consume the product: Even if the food appears and smells normal, the bacteria may still be present.
- Return for a refund: Bring the product (or the receipt) to the returns desk at any Costco warehouse for a full refund.
- Sanitize: If the meal kit was stored in a refrigerator without its original sealed packaging, it is recommended to clean the refrigerator shelves to prevent cross-contamination.
For more information, Costco members can contact the company’s customer service hotline at 1-800-774-2678 or visit the “Product Recalls” section on the official Costco website.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates on specific state listings and further guidance from the FDA.