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Bulking in Bulk

While most Americans eat plenty of protein, active individuals do require a hefty dose of muscle-building amino acids — 0.5-.09 grams of protein per pound. Meeting that benchmark is especially difficult if you're vegan, vegetarian, or just can't spend extra cash on overpriced protein powders. This list provides 10 affordable, protein-packed, superfan-approved Costco products that will help you build muscle mass. Here are the best high-protein foods and products at Costco, according to Redditors. Not already a Costco member? You can apply here.


Prices and availability are subject to change.


Related: The 25 Best Finds at Costco

Costco

Fairlife Protein Shakes

Price: $35 (18 ct.)

Protein per serving:30 grams
Calories per serving: 150

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With an impressive protein-to-calorie ratio, these dairy-based shakes can help you up your protein intake with little effort. It is, however, not the most cost-effective source of protein at around $2 per shake. Still, Fairlife protein shakes at Costco are significantly cheaper than they are on Amazon or at other retailers.

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Optimum Nutrition Whey

Price: $76 (5 pounds)

Protein per serving: 24 grams
Calories per serving: 110

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Out of all of Costco’s protein powders, this whey formula has some of the best reviews. Add it to your morning oatmeal, or simply mix it with water to make a shake. Either way, whey protein powder is an efficient source of protein. The only downside is that it's pricey and can upset your stomach.

Costco

Cage-Free Liquid Egg Whites

Price:$14 (6 ct.)

Protein per serving:5 grams
Calories per serving:25

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Low in fat, free from cholesterol, and loaded with protein, egg whites are a no-brainer for athletes looking for a nutritional boost. Each convenient container holds 16 ounces of liquid egg whites.


Related: Surprisingly Expensive Products From Costco

Tim Y./Yelp
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Kirkland Frozen Fish

Price:$42 (farmed salmon)

Protein per serving:41 grams
Calories per serving: 272

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With just a single serving of fatty fish (salmon is a particularly protein-dense), you can knock out a good chunk of your suggested daily protein intake. The quality of these frozen packs rivals Costco's fresh fish, Redditors say. "FYI, unless you are buying it at a shoreside fish market, the 'fresh' fish at the fish counter has been shipped frozen and carefully thawed there. This is a convenience for customers so you don't have to buy fish a day ahead," one comment reads.


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Costco

Smoked Salmon

Price: $26 (2 ct.)

Protein per serving:11 grams
Calories per serving:110

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Salmon makes this list twice — and for good reason. Not only does it contain a lot of protein, but it also has omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health.


Costco

Kirkland Protein Bars

Price: $25 (20 ct.)

Protein per serving: 21 grams
Calories per serving: 190

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Looking for a straightforward, quick way to gobble up protein? These bars pack a punch with 21 grams of protein and just 2 grams of sugar. Try the variety pack, which comes with chocolate brownie and cookie dough flavors.

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Sardines

Price: $12 (6 ct.)

Protein per serving: 12 grams
Calories per serving: 100

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Like salmon, sardines are full of protein, healthful fatty acids, and other beneficial vitamins and minerals. At just 100 calories per serving, they're also an efficient way to protein load without putting on extra pounds of fat.

Costco

Kirkland Almond Butter

Price: $8

Protein per serving: 7 grams
Calories per serving: 210

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Vegetarians and vegans can look to nuts for a healthy source of plant-based protein. Almond butter's health benefits extend beyond just protein, too, as it contains heart-healthy monosaturated fats and important nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.