Costco has introduced a new Rotisserie Chicken Chef Salad to its food court menu, boasting 59 grams of protein—the highest of any item available. However, a registered dietitian has cautioned that consumers should not focus solely on protein content when evaluating whether a meal is genuinely nutritious.

The $7.99 salad contains 840 calories and comprises rotisserie chicken, hard-boiled eggs, bacon bits, cheddar cheese, romaine lettuce, tomatoes and peppercorn ranch dressing. Dietitian Jamie Lee McIntyre noted that whilst the protein derives from wholesome sources like chicken and eggs with vegetables included, the 840 calories may prove excessive for those seeking a light lunch, and the salad can still be high in sodium and saturated fat despite its protein content. Other competitive options on the menu include the Chicken Caesar Salad with 58 grams of protein and the Chicken Bake with 53 grams, whilst online customer reactions have been mixed, with some praising the dressing and others criticising the proportions and saltiness.