Trader Joe’s is a beloved grocery store known for its unique products, friendly atmosphere, and affordable pricing. But not everything on its shelves is a good deal. While many items are worth adding to your cart, there are some you might want to pass by. In this guide, we’ll highlight 15 Trader Joe’s products that, despite their popularity, aren’t necessarily the best bang for your buck. Read on to discover what you’re better off skipping on your next TJ’s run.
1. Dairy Milk
Trader Joe’s milk tends to be pricier than what you’d find at major supermarkets or warehouse clubs. The taste and quality are fine, but if you’re looking to save, other stores may have better deals on this staple.
2. Disposable Paper Towels
While Trader Joe’s paper towels do the job, they lack the absorbency and strength of brands like Bounty or Kirkland. Considering the price per roll, you might be better off getting more for your money elsewhere.
3. Facial Tissue Boxes
Similar to the paper towels, the facial tissues at TJ’s are functional but thin. Other stores offer more durable options that are softer and often cheaper in bulk.
4. Grab-and-Go Wraps & Sandwiches
Trader Joe’s pre-made wraps and sandwiches may be convenient, but they often get mixed reviews for freshness and taste. For the price, you can easily make your own fresher version at home.
5. Cauliflower-Based Pizza Crust
Though a trendy option, the cauliflower pizza crust at Trader Joe’s has been criticized for being soggy and flavorless. You’re likely to find tastier alternatives at other grocery stores or make a homemade version with better texture.
6. Fresh Fruit Berries
Trader Joe’s berries, while delicious, tend to be on the expensive side and spoil quickly. You might get better value and longevity by purchasing fresh berries from local farmers’ markets or larger stores with faster turnover.
7. In-Store Bakery Loaves
While Trader Joe’s has a delightful bakery section, the bread options often lack the crusty texture and freshness that local bakeries offer. Plus, there are often more artisanal selections at competitive prices elsewhere.
8. Peas & Carrots Shaped Sour Gummies
A novelty snack, the Peas and Carrots Sour Gummies are fun but don’t offer anything special in terms of flavor. They’re more gimmicky than satisfying, and you can find better-tasting gummies for a similar price.
9. Hand Sanitizer Mist
Trader Joe’s hand sanitizer spray is convenient, but the small size and price make it less cost-effective compared to larger, more affordable options available at other stores.
10. Pre-Cooked Rotisserie Chicken
While it’s tempting to grab a fully-cooked chicken for convenience, Trader Joe’s version tends to be on the dry side and lacks flavor. Many grocery chains, like Costco, offer tastier rotisserie chickens at a better price.
11. Vanilla-Flavored Ice Cream
Trader Joe’s vanilla ice cream is decent but lacks the creaminess and rich flavor found in premium brands like Häagen-Dazs. For a similar price, you can grab something more indulgent from your local supermarket.
12. Frozen Vegan and Vegetarian Foods
Though Trader Joe’s has an impressive selection of plant-based products, their frozen meatless items can be hit or miss in terms of texture and flavor. There are better options at stores that specialize in vegetarian and vegan foods.
13. Refrigerated Salad Dressings
The refrigerated salad dressings at Trader Joe’s often contain unnecessary additives and don’t taste as fresh as making your own at home. Plus, you can find tastier bottled options elsewhere for less.
14. Organic Fruit Juices
Trader Joe’s organic juice may sound appealing, but it’s often expensive and loaded with sugars. For better quality and pricing, consider making fresh juice at home or purchasing larger bottles elsewhere.
15. Reusable Sponge Towels
Though eco-friendly, Trader Joe’s reusable sponge cloths don’t hold up as long as other brands on the market. If sustainability is your goal, investing in more durable options from other retailers would be a better bet.
Recommendations
Instead of these items, Trader Joe’s excels in offering unique snacks, frozen meals, sauces, and other grocery staples that deliver both quality and affordability. If you’re looking for better alternatives:
- Opt for Costco or Aldi for essentials like milk and paper towels.
- Check out local bakeries or bigger grocery stores for bread and fresh berries.
- For pre-made sandwiches or cauliflower pizza crust, you’re better off making your own for better taste and value.
- Consider other grocery stores for rotisserie chicken and premium ice cream brands if you’re looking for superior quality.
Final Say
Trader Joe’s remains a fan-favorite for its unique offerings and cult-classic products, but not everything on its shelves is a good deal. By skipping these 15 items, you can focus on what Trader Joe’s does best: affordable, high-quality, and innovative products. Save your money for the snacks, frozen meals, and pantry staples that make TJ’s a standout.
