Costco shoppers are well-acquainted with the Kirkland Signature brand, renowned for its quality and affordability. Contrary to popular belief, Kirkland Signature is not a manufacturer but a private label utilized by Costco to maintain control over the quality and pricing of its products, which are often sourced from various producers. For instance, the Kirkland Signature Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream is supplied by a small dairy cooperative in Humboldt, California.
The identities of the companies producing Kirkland products can be surprising, with some items made by renowned brands such as Starbucks and Duracell, while others come from lesser-known sources. Humboldt Creamery, the supplier of Kirkland’s ice cream, prides itself on organic, hormone-free products, with ice cream comprising 70% of its business.
In a recent discussion with North Coast Journal, Humboldt Creamery CEO Rich Ghilarducci emphasized Costco’s preference for the unique flavor of Humboldt County milk, stating, “[Costco believes] the flavor of the milk from Humboldt County is something very special. They want all their ice cream in any of their product lines in the United States to come from milk out of Humboldt County.” Although Humboldt may not be the world’s ice cream capital, the Kirkland Super Premium Vanilla Ice Cream has garnered a loyal following, praised as one of the best on the market.
Many Costco members stress the importance of not underestimating Kirkland products, especially in the frozen food section. Ice cream aficionados rave about the brand’s vanilla flavor, noting its exceptional texture and taste. According to the International Dairy Foods Association, the term “super premium” indicates a product with low overrun and high fat content, made with the finest ingredients.
Thanks to Humboldt Creamery, Kirkland’s ice cream features high-quality components, a fact that many Costco members appreciate. One user on the r/Costco subreddit declared it the “best vanilla I have ever had,” while another described it as “creamy, thick, sweet enough but not overly sweet,” highlighting its suitability for milkshakes.
Fans also argue that the price of Kirkland’s vanilla ice cream is justified. Costco offers this premium product at a price slightly higher than traditional grocery stores, typically around $18 for two half-gallon tubs, depending on location. However, considering the quantity and quality, many members find the investment worthwhile.
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