Costco shifts Kirkland Signature grass-fed butter sourcing to Ireland

Costco has updated the sourcing for its Kirkland Signature grass-fed butter, moving from a sole production origin in New Zealand to a contract with the Irish dairy co-operative Tirlán. While the product was previously labeled exclusively as a product of New Zealand, Costco’s website now lists the source as either New Zealand or Ireland.

The change has elicited mixed reactions from consumers. Some customers view the shift to Irish dairy as an upgrade, while others have reported differences in texture, noting the new version is softer when refrigerated. Additionally, some shoppers have criticized changes to the packaging, specifically the removal of tablespoon measurement marks on the wrapping.

In the broader dairy market, mid-tier brands are increasingly competing with premium imported options by focusing on higher butterfat content. For example, Tillamook offers an ‘Extra Creamy’ version with 81% butterfat, positioned as a more affordable alternative to premium brands like Kerrygold.