Japanese Nutritionist Reveals 9 Costco Foods She Relies on for Health and Longevity

Japanese-born nutritionist and longevity expert Michiko Tomioka, MBA, RDN, has shared her go-to list of Costco grocery items that align with her philosophy of clean, nutrient-rich eating inspired by traditional Japanese diets.

Raised in Nara, Japan—one of the regions known for its high life expectancy—Tomioka developed an early appreciation for wholesome, plant-based foods. Now based in the United States, she continues to prioritize longevity-focused eating, often sourcing healthy staples from Costco.

Healthy food | Source: Pexels

Topping her list is extra firm tofu, a protein-rich soy product she’s eaten since childhood. “It’s high in protein and provides good fats and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals,” she noted, adding that it supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

She also keeps frozen edamame on hand, praising its fiber, antioxidant, and vitamin K content. Her favorite snack comes in individually wrapped 8-ounce portions. “Just microwave a bag for two minutes,” she advises.

Other must-haves include dried goji berries, known for their potassium content and traditional use in East Asian medicine, and a variety of organic vegetables such as mushrooms, cucumbers, and French beans.

Healthy food | Source: Pexels

Tomioka also prioritizes fruits with edible skins like kiwi and citrus for their antioxidant-rich peels. Avocados, she notes, are a versatile staple in her household.

Although she abstains from meat, she buys chicken breast and salmon for her pets, preferring natural proteins over processed pet foods. Additional staples include unsalted almond butter, canned sardines, and matcha powder sourced from organic family farms in Kagoshima, Japan.