Do I have to buy these? I noticed I don't have an option - either I buy a dinner with the soup or go on my own.

I don't like them or want them. It's a rip off to the customer if they are forced to buy something they don't want.

Huh? You don't have to purchase these. I don't think any JC food is mandatory!

These are definitely not mandatory (although SuccessfulOne is right, none are mandatory). They count as your limited free foods. I hate them, too, and if I feel extra hungry I'll have something else instead.

You could probably use Cup a Soup if you wanted, although the sodium is a little high. I use low sodium V8 juice as soup. I heat it up and I'm good to go! You could probably also use low sodium chicken or vegetable boullion. But don't let them tell you that those soupitizers are mandatory. I agree...they are nasty tasting!

I make my own soupatizers, but they count as totally free as well. I am a cheapskate, so I use chicken broth, cabbage, onions, garlic , some tomatoes, spices and carrots to create a filling soup.

I have never bought them, consultant told me they are "extra" and not needed