‘They want to get 36 cents back’: Jake, Spike rip lawsuit targeting Costco’s $5 rotisserie chicken

Two California Costco customers have proposed a class action lawsuit over Costco’s fan-favorite rotisserie chicken due to deceptive marketing that improperly claims there are no preservatives.

Jake Skorheim and Spike O’Neill, co-hosts of “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, explained the absurdity of taking legal action over a roughly $5 chicken that has been a staple for the company for many years.

“You know what I love, a nice $5 chicken,” Spike said. “They want to have a class action lawsuit to get what, 36 cents back? Only in California could you find two people who get a $5 chicken and have a problem with and complain about it.”

At the heart of the Costco lawsuit: A seaweed-based additive in the chicken seasoning

Spike noted that concerns are being raised about an additive in the chicken, Carrageenan, which is made from seaweed and is only used in the chicken’s seasoning.

“When they finally get this thing to court, and I hope that if Costco doesn’t win this immediately … they’re trying to get it thrown out, Costco is actually requesting to have it dismissed because it’s ridiculous,” Jake said. “But let’s say that it’s not. I hope someday they end up on the hot seat, and somebody is grilling them, whoever’s in charge of Costco. Are they even customers?”

Jake and Spike questioned the possibility that the two customers weren’t fans of Costco to begin with, and alleged that the chickens were purchased solely as a way to take legal action.

“They probably went in and bought a chicken just so they could make this case,” Spike responded.

“I’m sure they did,” Jake said. “I’m sure they saw a big opportunity there, that’s just my allegation, but who would go into Costco if you’re somebody who loves that place, as I do, and go in and see a chicken for $4.99 and see a villain. I see a friend. The whole thing is ridiculous. What a stupid lawsuit. I hope this fails spectacularly.”

Watch the full discussion in the video above

Listen to “The Jake and Spike Show” weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3