Costco customer outraged by significant change to popular product: 'This is unacceptable'

Environmentally conscious consumers are drawing attention to the overuse of packaging in retail stores across the United States. A common complaint involves stores adding unnecessary layers to products that are already prepackaged.

Recently, a Reddit user shared an example from Costco on r/Anticonsumption. The post, titled "WTF is this packaging?", featured a 1.7-ounce container of Clinique hydrating cream. The product originally comes in a branded cardboard box, yet Costco encased that box inside a much larger plastic clamshell, leaving most of the packaging space empty.

Some commenters speculated the oversized packaging might be to prevent theft, while others criticized it as wasteful. One user wrote, "There should be strict codes regulating packaging itself in proportion to the product being sold. Everything about this is wildly unsustainable."

For consumers, clamshell packaging can be difficult to open and even cause minor injuries. From an environmental perspective, the plastic is more concerning. Single-use plastic is extremely difficult to recycle, and most of it ends up in landfills or as litter. Over time, plastic does not naturally decompose and instead fragments into microplastics that pollute ecosystems.

Costco's Response and Initiatives

Costco has not publicly commented on this specific instance of excessive packaging. However, the retailer has been working to reduce packaging waste. In July, Costco highlighted new guidelines for its Kirkland Signature brand, aiming to cut overall packaging, use less plastic, and prioritize recycled and recyclable materials.

"The goal is to reduce packaging waste while still protecting products, ensuring food safety, and complying with laws and regulations," said Tim Wahlquist, head of Costco's packaging team. He added that new packaging should improve sustainability, such as using cardboard from certified forests.

How Shoppers Can Reduce Plastic Waste

Consumers can also help by choosing products with minimal or plastic-free packaging and buying larger packages when possible. Reusable alternatives, like metal razors and refillable water bottles, further reduce single-use plastic consumption.

Author: Sophia Brooks