Uses of Beans. Because seeds contain much protein, beans are useful as a meat substitute and in different parts of the world are a characteristic itemâoften a stapleâof the national fare. Baked beans, cooked for hours with pork or molasses or both, are a traditional New England dish. Share | Cite. Because seeds contain much protein, beans are useful as a meat substitute and in different parts of the world are a characteristic itemâoften a stapleâof the national fare.
Shoppers take note: Costco announced this week it is increasing its membership fees by 1o percent starting Nov. 1, just in time for the holiday season.
In the volatile world that is the grocery business, Costco has a way to ensure a steady source of income: membership fees. In 2014 alone, the company's 76 million members worldwide brought in $2.4 billion in revenue.