Costco’s Alien-Looking ‘Naked Lobster’ Sparks Divisive Reactions
Costco shoppers are having a field day on social media reacting to the chain’s latest innovation, a so-called “naked lobster.” Costco began selling naked lobsters in March, but with summertime upon us, more and more shoppers are noticing the shellfish for the first time.
The innovation of Costco’s naked lobster is that it comes already shelled. Each pack comes with two 6.5-ounce lobsters, each with two pads of herbed butter. “Enjoy the exquisite taste of succulent lobster without the hassles—no shells, no mess, no fishy odors, and no special tools required,” Costco’s website promises. At $39.99 per pack, the store trumpets its naked lobster as a tremendous bargain.
But not everyone is convinced about the new product. On May 16, The Sushi Guy (@photogami) on TikTok posted a video with the caption, “Sus foods at Costco you’re too afraid to try.” Noting that the meal somewhat resembles Dr. Zoidberg, the lobster-like creature from the show Futurama, The Sushi Guy went on to classify the creation as “creepy.”
Even creepier is the way the lobster is relieved of its shell. “Tons of pressure to the lobster kills it instantly, and their flesh comes right out of the shell,” the creator explained.
de-shelled “naked” lobster is showing up at Costco! pic.twitter.com/QM5KihVMak
— QENNY IRN-BRU KING (@AKBrews) May 14, 2024
Many viewers couldn’t quite wrap their heads around the item, either. “I thought lobsters were boiled alive? Is this a naked live lobster? Or how did they get the guts out cleanly? This is so weird,” @CathyBlueZen wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
But some were quick to defend the naked lobster. “It actually works well enough,” wrote @rensaldana166. “It’s a great product for the price.”
The Sushi Guy was also pleasantly surprised with the lobster’s quality. “If you overcook it, it becomes too rubbery. If you undercook it, it becomes too slimy. In the pouch, you’re kind of doing a home sous vide, it’s fantastic,” he raved. He added lemon juice, butter, a bit of Old Bay seasoning, and a brioche bun to create an immaculate at-home lobster roll.
“I want to give that an 8 out of 10,” The Sushi Guy concluded, adding that the naked lobster was “good value.”
Sus Foods at @Costco Wholesale you’re too afraid to try! The Cedar Bay Naked Lobster looks crazy, but it could be an incredible deal for those looking for lobster #costco #thesushiguy #lobster #seafood
