Is it true that Costco is recalling butter? Unpacking the nutrition diet implications

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

In November 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversaw a Class II recall of nearly 80,000 pounds of Costco's Kirkland Signature butter in Texas. This event raises important questions for consumers following a nutrition diet and for those with milk allergies, prompting many to ask, 'Is it true that Costco is recalling butter?'. This article will clarify the specifics of that recall and explore the broader nutritional context of butter.

Quick Summary

A 2024 recall of Costco's Kirkland Signature butter occurred due to mislabeling, specifically the omission of a 'Contains Milk' statement required by law. While the butter itself was safe for most, the issue highlighted food allergen regulations and sparked discussion about butter's place within a balanced nutrition diet, considering its fat and vitamin content.

Key Points

The Costco Recall Was for Mislabeling: The November 2024 recall for Kirkland Signature butter was due to the omission of the mandatory 'Contains Milk' statement on the label, not spoilage.
Allergen Labeling is Critical: The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires clear declaration of major allergens like milk, even for products where the presence might seem obvious.
Butter Can Be Part of a Healthy Diet: Moderation is key, but butter contains fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K2) and beneficial compounds like butyrate and CLA, especially in grass-fed varieties.
Saturated Fat is Not the Whole Story: While high in saturated fat, modern nutritional science suggests the focus should be on overall dietary patterns rather than demonizing single ingredients.
Check Recalls for Different Products: The Costco butter incident was distinct from other recent recalls for different butter brands, such as the Cabot recall for bacterial contamination in April 2025.
Read Labels Carefully: The incident highlights the need for consumers, particularly those with allergies, to always read labels thoroughly to ensure product safety.

Understanding the November 2024 Costco Butter Recall

Yes, it is true that Costco was involved in a butter recall. In late 2024, the retailer dealt with a recall concerning its popular Kirkland Signature butter brand, but the reason might not be what you expect. Unlike recalls for bacterial contamination or spoiled food, this one centered on a labeling error. The manufacturer, Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest LLC, voluntarily recalled approximately 79,200 pounds of Kirkland Signature Salted and Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter that were distributed in Texas. The recall was classified as Class II, meaning the product could cause temporary or reversible adverse health consequences.

The Reason Behind the Recall

The root cause was a failure to include the mandatory 'Contains Milk' statement on the product's packaging. While the ingredient list did specify 'cream,' which is derived from milk, U.S. food safety laws require explicit declaration of all major allergens, including milk. For the average consumer, it may seem obvious that butter contains milk. However, for individuals with severe milk allergies, this detail is critical and legally mandated to prevent potentially life-threatening anaphylactic reactions. The law is designed to protect all consumers, especially those with food sensitivities.

Other Relevant Butter Recalls

To put the Costco event into a wider perspective, it is important to note that other butter recalls have occurred recently for different reasons. For example:

August 2025 Bunge North America Recall: The FDA issued a Class II recall for over 64,000 pounds of NH European Style Butter Blend due to undeclared milk allergens, affecting food service distribution centers across the US and the Dominican Republic.
April 2025 Cabot Creamery Recall: More than 1,700 pounds of Cabot's Sea Salted Extra Creamy Premium Butter were recalled in seven states due to contamination with elevated levels of coliform bacteria, indicating potential fecal contamination. This was a lower-risk Class III recall, but it highlights the variety of issues that can lead to recalls.

The Role of Butter in a Nutrition Diet

Amidst a food safety scare, it's a good time to consider butter's place in a healthy diet. Long demonized for its saturated fat content, butter has seen a shift in perspective, with modern nutrition focusing more on overall dietary patterns than single ingredients.

Nutritional Profile of Butter

Butter is primarily a source of fat, containing about 102 calories per tablespoon. It is rich in fat-soluble vitamins, including Vitamin A, which is crucial for vision and immune function, as well as Vitamins D, E, and K2. Grass-fed butter, in particular, may offer higher levels of beneficial compounds like Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) and Omega-3 fatty acids compared to standard butter.

Butter also contains butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid linked to improved gut health and reduced inflammation. While the concentration is not high enough to replace other sources like dietary fiber, it contributes to the overall nutritional composition.

Butter vs. Alternatives in a Diet

To make informed dietary choices, it's helpful to compare butter to its common alternatives. This table outlines the key differences:


Feature	Butter (Standard)	Grass-Fed Butter	Margarine / Spread (Tub)
Saturated Fat (per tbsp)	~7g	~7g (with more unsaturated fat)	~3g
Trans Fat (per tbsp)	Minimal (naturally occurring)	Minimal (naturally occurring)	Typically 0g, but check labels
Vitamins	High in Vitamins A, D, E, K2	High in Vitamins A, D, E, K2; potentially higher CLA	Fortified with vitamins, but composition varies
Health Reputation	Historically controversial, now viewed neutrally in moderation	Better reputation due to higher nutrient content and CLA	Often seen as a healthier alternative due to lower saturated fat
Best For	Cooking, baking, and spreading	Same as standard butter, with a richer flavor	Spreading, not ideal for high-heat cooking

Incorporating Butter into a Healthy Diet

For most people, a balanced approach is key. Enjoying butter in moderation can add flavor and valuable nutrients to your meals without derailing your health goals. A few tips include:

Portion Control: A single tablespoon is around 100 calories, so use it sparingly to avoid excess calorie intake.
Pair Wisely: A small pat of butter can make steamed vegetables more palatable, helping you eat more nutrient-dense foods.
Consider Alternatives: For high-heat cooking, opt for oils with a higher smoke point, or mix butter with olive oil to get the flavor with fewer saturated fats.
Mind Allergies: Always be vigilant about reading food labels, regardless of how obvious an ingredient seems. This is the primary takeaway from the Costco butter recall.

Conclusion

So, is it true that Costco is recalling butter? Yes, a voluntary recall occurred in late 2024 for a mislabeling issue in Texas, not because the butter was spoiled. This incident serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of clear allergen labeling for public health. For those considering butter's role in their nutrition diet, the science suggests that moderate consumption can be part of a healthy eating plan, especially when opting for high-quality, grass-fed varieties. The key is informed decision-making, based on accurate information and personal health needs, especially concerning allergies. For the most up-to-date information on product safety, consumers should always consult resources like FoodSafety.gov.

Recalled Product Details (November 2024):

Kirkland Signature Unsalted Sweet Cream Butter: 1-pound packages of four 4-ounce sticks with lot numbers and best-by dates including Lot No. 2424091 (Best By Feb. 22, 2025) and Lot No. 2424111 (Best By Feb. 23, 2025).
Kirkland Signature Salted Sweet Cream Butter: 1-pound packages of four 4-ounce sticks with lot numbers and best-by dates including Lot No. 2424191 (Best By Feb. 23, 2025) and Lot No. 2427591 (Best By Mar. 29, 2025).

Frequently Asked Questions

The November 2024 recall for Kirkland Signature butter was specific to certain lot numbers and was voluntarily initiated by the manufacturer, Continental Dairy Facilities Southwest. If you are concerned, you can check Costco's official recall page for the latest updates.

No, for individuals without a milk allergy, the recalled butter was considered safe to consume. The recall was issued solely because of the undeclared milk allergen on the packaging, which poses a risk only to those with an allergy.

Grass-fed butter comes from cows that graze on pasture, and it may contain higher levels of healthy fats like Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) and Omega-3 fatty acids compared to conventional butter.

While butter is high in saturated fat, the link between saturated fat intake and heart disease is more complex than once thought. The Heart Foundation and other organizations recommend focusing on overall diet rather than fixating on a single food. Replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fats can lower heart disease risk.

Yes, butter can be included in a weight-loss diet in moderation. It is calorie-dense, so portion control is important. The satiety from fats can help manage appetite, but it should be paired with nutrient-dense foods.

The debate stems from its high saturated fat content, which was historically linked to heart disease. However, research has highlighted butter's content of fat-soluble vitamins and other beneficial compounds, prompting a re-evaluation, especially in the context of moderation.

Always read the entire ingredient list on food labels, even for products you've purchased before. If you have a severe allergy, it is best to be cautious with any recalled product. FoodSafety.gov provides guidance on what to do with recalled food.