Why It Pays To Pick Up Maple Syrup At Costco

When it comes to sweetening agents, maple syrup is truly something special. Derived from the sap found inside sugar maple trees, this sweet stuff is best known for its pleasing yet complex flavors. For example, darker syrups are associated with a more intense flavor profile, while lighter syrups really bring out the sweetness. Maple syrup also contains a surprising number of vitamins and nutrients, unlike sugar and other sweeteners. For instance, it's an excellent source of zinc and manganese, while also providing healthy portions of iron, calcium, and potassium.

Maple syrup also contains antioxidants, which fend off free radical damage throughout the body. Free radicals are associated with higher disease risk, but eating foods with antioxidants limit their impact and protects the body from oxidative stress. Of course, health and wellness are probably the last things on your mind when enjoying sweet maple syrup. And when you purchase quality organic syrup from Costco, you won't need to worry about the cost either.

No morning pancake feast would be sufficient without lots of maple syrup to go around. And for syrup enthusiasts with ultra-high standards, only the best sticky stuff will do. Maple syrup comes in different categories, with Grade A being the absolute highest. In this case, the United States Department of Agriculture stipulates that Grade A syrup must be composed of 66% sugar and include no additives for a 100% pure product (via Ohio State University Extension). Along with creating a superior product, meeting these standards can really amp up the price of syrup.

Take Anderson's Pure Maple Syrup, for instance, which is designated as a Grade A product. On Amazon, this syrup will cost you around $25 for 32 ounces, which pales in comparison to what's available at Costco. The warehouse chain has its own Grade A maple syrup from its Kirkland Signature brand. Members can pick up a whopping 33.8 ounces of this organic maple syrup for just $14.99, which means you'll end up paying less money for more product. And if you want to increase savings even further, there are lots of other smart steps you can take.

There are some Costco members who live to utilize certain tips and tricks that can really extend their grocery budgets. When compared to conventional grocery chains, Costco's selection of staples, like bread and milk, are usually much less expensive. As a result, purchasing these items from the wholesale retailer exclusively can result in some unbelievable savings. And in the event you purchase something you're not fully satisfied with, you'll most likely be able to return it for a full refund (unless it's a prohibited item, so be sure to check your specific Costco location for details).

Like other grocery chains, Costco tends to put its most attractive, and usually most expensive, items at the front. The goal is to entice shoppers with these displays, which can lead to impulse purchases. If you can resist the temptation, aim your cart towards the center of the store to track down the best deals and bargains. On your way there, be sure to swing by the gift card section. Here you'll find lots of discounted cards at your favorite restaurants and retailers, which means you can enjoy dinner and a movie without breaking the bank. Costco truly is a frugal shopper's paradise, especially when you take the right approach.