If you’ve ever picked up a hot, ready-to-eat chicken during a grocery run, you know it’s a reliable dinner fix.

But recently, shoppers have spotted a surprising packaging change that’s sparking plenty of chatter online.

Let’s just say—it’s not the container people were expecting.



If you’ve ever wandered through Walmart’s grocery section, you’ve likely been lured by the irresistible aroma of rotisserie chicken. That golden, juicy bird—snug in its sturdy, leak-proof dome—has long been a go-to dinner savior.

But now, shoppers in Texas have noticed something that’s left the internet clucking in disbelief: Walmart’s iconic rotisserie chicken is now being sold in... basic plastic bags tied off like leftovers.

Yes, really. The dependable, hard-shell container has vanished, replaced by a thin, knotted bag that looks more suited to produce than steaming-hot poultry. The change was first flagged by TikTok user @NikkiBellAnt, whose video has already garnered nearly 90,000 views and a wave of comments ranging from confused to outright outraged.


So, why the switch? Theories are flying faster than a runaway chicken.

Some shoppers blame lingering supply chain woes and tariffs—particularly those introduced during the Trump administration—that have made importing packaging materials more costly and erratic. Others suggest it’s just a temporary container shortage, not a long-term shift.

One commenter captured the mood perfectly: “Let the supply chain issues begin. Most food containers are made overseas…” a commentor wrote.

“Guess the packaging comes from China and now they will bag it in a plastic bag that will leak all over you and your car,” another one wrote.

Walmart isn’t alone in ruffling feathers with packaging changes. Costco faced its own backlash not long ago after swapping its rotisserie chicken packaging for flimsy plastic bags. Customers weren’t thrilled with the switch, citing grease leaks in cars and refrigerators—a cleanup nobody asked for.

The once-humble rotisserie chicken has now become a flashpoint in larger debates about global trade, cost-cutting, and retailer priorities. With 60% of Walmart’s goods coming from China, the company has been bracing for tariff effects for years and has even warned that price increases could follow.


Beyond the inconvenience of soggy packaging, some shoppers are voicing food safety concerns. “I hope that plastic is heatproof. The heat will make poisons come out into the food,” one TikToker warned.

While most food-grade plastics are designed to handle high temperatures, the abrupt switch—without any customer explanation—has left many uneasy.

Others see legal risks looming, calling the packaging a “lawsuit waiting to happen.” Between potential burns, contamination, and messy spills, the new bags may be more trouble than they’re worth.

Walmart has not released an official statement about the packaging switch. But the company has shown it’s not afraid to pivot. With a planned overhaul of 650 stores across 46 states and Puerto Rico, Walmart is clearly investing in staying competitive in the grocery space.



Also read: What Walmart shoppers should know about expected price adjustments

The retailer also earned recent praise for launching a new line of baked goods to rival Costco—proof that it’s still thinking big, even if the chicken bags are underwhelming.

To many shoppers, packaging isn’t just a container—it’s a signal of quality, safety, and trust. The right packaging keeps food fresh, prevents leaks, and makes it easy to carry home. When that suddenly changes, it can feel like the brand has broken a silent promise.

And for elderly customers or those with mobility challenges, bad packaging can be downright dangerous. Wrestling with a slippery, heat-filled bag could lead to spills, burns—or worse.

Read next: Worried about grocery hikes? These Walmart pantry picks could save you

Have you run into this new packaging at Walmart or Costco? Did it make your dinner plans easier—or way messier? Are you worried about food safety, or do you think this reflects broader supply chain issues? We’d love to hear your take! Share your experiences, tips, and ideas in the comments below.