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Posted by u/lactoseintolerantlifters路

Aldi, Costco, or Whole Foods? Where's the best bang for my protein buck?

TL;DR: Trying to find the best place for protein per dollar: Aldi, Costco, or Whole Foods? Need tips!

So I've been on a protein quest, trying to figure out where to snag the most protein per dollar without sacrificing my taste buds (seriously, I'm lactose intolerant, so cheese is out!). I've hit up Aldi, Costco, and Whole Foods, but the protein pricing feels like a secret mission.

Here's what I found:

  • Aldi: Cheap as hell, but the selection can be hit or miss. I mean, where's the beef, right?
  • Costco: Big packs for big gains, but do I really need 5 lbs of chicken? My freezer is basically a chicken shrine now.
  • Whole Foods: Great quality but I might as well sell my organs for some ground turkey.

Anyone else done the math on this? What's your go-to for protein that doesn't break the bank? Let's spill the tea on the protein prices!

21 comments

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u/liftingtogether路

Aldi can be hit or miss, but I've found some solid protein options there, especially their frozen chicken and turkey. If you can catch them on sale, it's a steal. Plus, if you mix it up with spices or marinades, you can keep your meals exciting!

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u/badformbutgoodvibes路

I'm still figuring out my macros, so I feel you on the protein mission. I'm low-key tracking with MyFitnessPal, but I'm not great at it. Is there a better app for lazy lifters like me? Asking for a friend. 馃槀

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u/veganpowerlifting路

If you're open to plant-based options, I highly recommend checking out lentils and chickpeas. They pack a good protein punch, and you can get them for super cheap at any store. Plus, they're super versatile for meal prep!

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u/liftingtogether路

If you can get the frozen shrimp at Costco, it's a solid option. Packed with protein and quick to cook. Just saut茅 with some garlic and you've got a gourmet meal in minutes. And no, I'm not a chef, just a lifter with a love for good food

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u/carbloadking路

Protein shakes can also be a game-changer for convenience. You can mix in some oats or nut butter for extra calories and protein without sacrificing taste. Plus, Costco has good deals on protein powder sometimes!

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u/thecraftychef路

I love making chicken stir-fry with Aldi's frozen chicken and veggies. It's super easy, tasty, and you get a ton of protein. Just toss some soy sauce and spices, and it's like a protein fiesta on a plate. Meal prep for the win!

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u/bro_split_bro_420路

Bruh, Costco is a whole mood for bulk protein! Just toss some chicken thighs in the air fryer, add some seasoning, and you got meals for days. Just don't forget to rotate that stock or you'll end up with a freezer full of expired meat.

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u/depressedlifter路

Man, I tried meal prepping with Costco chicken once. Ended up feeling like I was running a poultry farm in my fridge. Plus, every time I opened the freezer, I was reminded of my poor life choices. 馃槀

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u/runninglateagain路

I can't deal with the chicken shrine lol. I usually just buy what I need for a week, otherwise, it feels like I'm living in a meat locker! Running out of protein is always a skill issue for me.

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u/midwest_lifter路

Costco wins for sheer volume, but yeah, a 5 lb bag of chicken is a commitment! I usually grab their frozen salmon too, not as cheap but worth it for the omega-3s. Just make sure you portion it out if you don't wanna get buried in poultry.

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u/veganpowerlifting路

If you're rly looking to save, I'd say check out Costco for bulk beans and lentils. They have a great selection of plant-based proteins! It's all about balancing protein sources and finding what you love to eat. I'm lactose intolerant too, so I make a lot of delicious vegan meals that keep my protein intake high without the dairy!

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u/gymratbutchill路

I get you on the beef situation, fam. But did you check out the beef jerky at Aldi? It's a protein bomb and doesn't take up much space. Just watch out for the sodium levels tho, you don't want to be chugging water like you're prepping for a marathon.

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u/briankoel路

I hear you on Whole Foods being expensive, but their quality is hard to beat. I've noticed that their meat selection is better in terms of sourcing. If you can swing it, it might be worth it every once in a while for special meals.

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u/lactoseintolerantlifters路

Honestly, Aldi is where it's at if you're lactose intolerant like me! Their frozen chicken and turkey options are pretty solid, and the price can't be beat. Just keep an eye out for their seasonal items, sometimes you get lucky and find a gem.

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u/5kqueen_2022路

Also, don't sleep on canned tuna! It's cheap and packed with protein. Perfect for quick salads or sandwiches if you're ever in a pinch. I get mine from Aldi usually, and it's always a hit!

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u/cuttingseason_2024路

I used to think tracking was a waste of time, but then I got serious about my cuts. I switched to MacroFactor, and it's been eye-opening. You might find it easier than MyFitnessPal if you're looking for something more user-friendly.

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u/lactoseintolerantlifters路

yep, Aldi's selection can be rough. I went once and couldn't find anything other than chicken and a ton of weird frozen meals. But for plant-based options, they do have some decent tofu! Gotta work with what you got sometimes.

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u/thecraftychef路

I totally get the struggle with protein sources! I love experimenting with different recipes to keep things interesting. For example, if you're looking for a quick protein fix, I make a spicy chickpea stir-fry with some veggies and quinoa. It's filling and super tasty without breaking the bank.

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u/bodyweightbeast路

You could also try making protein pancakes with some oats and egg whites! I make a huge batch on Sundays and freeze them. Super easy to pop in the microwave when I'm running late for class!

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u/nurseliftsheavy路

For tracking, I've been using Cronometer, and I love it. It gives you a lot of insight into micronutrients, which is super helpful. I've found it motivates me to hit my protein goals, and it's easy to log meals.

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u/strongerthanlastyear路

If you can handle it, the protein bars at Costco are pretty sweet, too. I usually grab a box for quick snacks post-workout. They have decent macros and don't taste like chalk, which is a win.

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