Trader Joe’s is a fan-favorite grocery store known for its unique products, quirky branding, and cult-like following. But not everything that lines its shelves is worth the buzz. Some items are overrated or simply don’t live up to their reputation, while others are gems you shouldn’t miss. Here’s a breakdown of 20 products that aren’t worth the hype, and 10 that are totally worth it!
Not Worth It
1. Chicken & Bacon Sandwich $4.99/10 oz
Introduced as a new food court item at Costco, the Chicken & Bacon Sandwich was met with high expectations. However, many customers found it lacking in flavor and quality, especially compared to other Costco food court staples.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 750
- Fats: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Sodium: 1,450mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 45g
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- Bacon
- Torta roll
- Cheese
- Lettuce
- Mayonnaise-based sauce
Preparation Instructions
- Toast the bread slightly for better texture.
- Heat the chicken and bacon for a crispier bite.
- Add fresh vegetables or a sauce of choice to enhance flavor.
2. Peanut-Butter-Filled Pretzel Nuggets $2.49/16 oz
While peanut butter and pretzels seem like a match made in heaven, Trader Joe’s version tends to have a dry, chalky filling that lacks the creamy richness expected.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
- Wheat flour
- Peanut butter
- Sugar
- Salt
- Palm oil
Preparation Instructions
- Serve with jam or chocolate for added flavor.
- Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
3. Trader Joe’s Non dairy Oat Beverage $2.79/32 Fl Oz
While oat milk has surged in popularity, Trader Joe’s version tends to be watery and less creamy compared to leading brands like Oatly or Chobani.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 60
- Fats: 3.5g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Sodium: 85mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 1g
Ingredients
- Water
- Hydrolyzed oats
- Sunflower oil
- Dipotassium phosphate
- Calcium carbonate
- Vitamin D2
Preparation Instructions
- Best used in coffee or smoothies where its texture is less noticeable.
- Shake well before use to mix the contents.
- Store refrigerated after opening.
4. Chicken Tikka Masala $4.49/8.5 oz
Trader Joe’s Chicken Tikka Masala is a frozen meal inspired by the popular Indian dish. It consists of boneless chicken pieces in a creamy, spiced tomato sauce, served with basmati rice.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 360
- Total fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Dietary fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 21g
Ingredients
Boneless chicken, basmati rice, tomato purée, heavy cream, onions, garlic, ginger, butter, spices (coriander, cumin, turmeric), salt, and natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Remove tray from box, pierce film, and microwave on high for 3–4 minutes. Stir and heat for another 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F. Remove tray from box, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 25–30 minutes.
Why It’s Not Worth the Hype: The portion size is small, and the flavors don’t quite match an authentic restaurant-style Chicken Tikka Masala. Additionally, the sauce can be too creamy and heavy without the right spice balance.
5. Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese $3.49/12 oz
This frozen meal combines classic mac and cheese with pepperoni and marinara sauce, attempting to bring together two beloved comfort foods.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 460
- Total fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Dietary fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 18g
Ingredients
Elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, butter, wheat flour, pepperoni, tomato paste, garlic powder, and seasonings.
Preparation Instructions
- Microwave: Heat on high for 3–4 minutes, stir, and heat for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes.
Why It’s Not Worth the Hype: The combination of mac and cheese with pepperoni feels forced, and the overall taste is overly processed. The texture can also be inconsistent, with cheese sometimes separating during cooking.
6. Sparkling Water $3.49/12 Fl Oz
Trader Joe’s Sparkling Water comes in various flavors, including lemon, lime, and berry. It’s marketed as a refreshing, sugar-free beverage.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories per serving: 0
- Total fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
Carbonated water, natural flavors.
Preparation Instructions
- Best served chilled or over ice.
Why It’s Not Worth the Hype: While it’s a decent alternative to sugary sodas, it doesn’t stand out from other brands. The flavors are subtle, and many people find it comparable to generic store-brand sparkling waters available at a lower price.
7. Scented Candles $3.99/5.7 oz
Trader Joe’s offers a range of scented candles in seasonal fragrances like Honeycrisp Apple, Vanilla Pumpkin, and Cedar Balsam.
Ingredients
Soy wax, essential oils, natural fragrance.
Usage Instructions
- Trim wick to ¼ inch before each use.
- Burn within sight and away from flammable objects.
- Do not burn for more than 4 hours at a time.
Why It’s Not Worth the Hype: The scent throw isn’t very strong, and the candles burn quickly compared to other brands at a similar price point. Many customers find better options at other retailers with longer-lasting fragrances.
8. Vitamins and Supplements Price varies by product/60-120 tablets
Trader Joe’s vitamins and supplements might seem like a convenient option, but they often lack the potency and formulation you’d find in dedicated supplement brands. Many reviewers report ineffectiveness or poor ingredient quality.
Nutritional Facts
- Dosage varies
- Often lower concentrations compared to competitors
Ingredients
Typically includes fillers like magnesium stearate and silicon dioxide.
Preparation Instructions
Follow label recommendations, though results may vary.
9. Premade Salads $3.99-$4.99/8-12 oz
Trader Joe’s premade salads are convenient but often bland, overly dressed, or packed with sodium. The shelf life is also short, making them less ideal for meal prep.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 300-450 per serving
- Fats: 20-30g
- Sodium: 600-1000mg
- Protein: 8-15g
Ingredients
Pre-washed greens, dressings, and various toppings like croutons or cheese.
Preparation Instructions
Open, toss, and eat—though adding your own toppings might make them more enjoyable.
10. Milk $3.49-$5.49/Half gallon
The milk options at Trader Joe’s are often criticized for their short shelf life and inconsistent taste compared to other grocery store brands.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150 per cup
- Fats: 8g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Pasteurized cow’s milk, Vitamin D3
11. Chocolate Covered Wafer Cookie with Peanut Butter Filling $3.99/6 oz
While the concept sounds delicious, the wafer cookies are often stale, and the peanut butter filling lacks the rich flavor you’d expect.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 19g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Sugar, peanut butter, wheat flour, palm oil, cocoa powder
Preparation Instructions
No preparation needed—ready to eat.
12. Cauliflower Pizza Crust $4.99/10 oz
Hailed as a low-carb alternative, this crust can be soggy and hard to work with. Many find it doesn’t hold up well to toppings.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 80
- Fats: 2g
- Carbs: 16g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Cauliflower, mozzarella cheese, eggs, corn flour
Preparation Instructions
Bake at 425°F for 10-12 minutes. Add toppings and rebake.
13. Italian Truffle Cheese $12.99/lb/Varies
This cheese has an overpowering truffle flavor that doesn’t balance well with most pairings. It’s a polarizing option even for truffle lovers.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Pasteurized milk, truffle oil, salt, enzymes
Preparation Instructions
Serve cold or at room temperature.
14. Wraps and Sandwiches To-Go $4.49/8 Oz
While convenient, these wraps and sandwiches are often dry, overly salty, and less fresh compared to making your own.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 300-600
- Fats: 15-25g
- Sodium: 800-1200mg
- Protein: 10-25g
Ingredients
Pre-made wraps with fillings like turkey, chicken, or veggies.
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
15. “Fresh” Bread $2.99-$3.99/20-24 oz
Trader Joe’s bread tends to have a shorter shelf life and lacks the fluffiness or texture of bakery-fresh options.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 110
- Fats: 1g
- Carbs: 22g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
Flour, yeast, sugar, preservatives
Preparation Instructions
Use quickly or freeze to extend freshness.
16. Cajun Alfredo Pasta Sauce $3.99/14.5 Oz
This pasta sauce promises a bold Cajun flavor, but it often falls flat with a strange balance of spices that don’t complement the creaminess.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 100
- Fats: 9g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbs: 2g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Cream, Parmesan cheese, Cajun spices, garlic, onion
Preparation Instructions
Heat over low-medium heat and pour over pasta.
17. Chili Onion Crunch $4.29/6 oz
This trendy condiment has a loyal following, but some find it oily and lacking depth compared to authentic chili crunch brands.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 50
- Fats: 5g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Carbs: 1g
Ingredients
Chili flakes, garlic, onion, olive oil
Preparation Instructions
Use as a topping for noodles, eggs, or bread.
18. Mandarin Orange Chicken $4.99/22 oz
Though it’s one of Trader Joe’s most popular frozen items, the sauce can be overly sweet, and the texture of the chicken isn’t always consistent.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 320
- Fats: 17g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Protein: 13g
Ingredients
Chicken, orange sauce (sugar, soy sauce, orange juice concentrate)
Preparation Instructions
Bake chicken and toss in warmed sauce.
19. Butternut Squash Mac n Cheese $3.99/12 oz
This seasonal product gets a lot of attention, but the sweetness of the squash often clashes with the savory mac and cheese flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 270
- Fats: 10g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Carbs: 36g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients
Butternut squash, pasta, cheese, cream
Preparation Instructions
Microwave or bake until heated.
20. Chicken Fried Rice $2.99/12 oz
While convenient, this fried rice lacks the bold flavors and freshness of homemade or restaurant-quality fried rice.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 210
- Fats: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Rice, chicken, vegetables, soy sauce
Preparation Instructions
Heat in a pan or microwave.
21. Sriracha Sauce $2.99/18 oz
Trader Joe’s take on Sriracha pales in comparison to the original Huy Fong brand, with a thinner texture and less balanced heat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 5
- Sodium: 80mg
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients
Red chili peppers, garlic, sugar, vinegar
Preparation Instructions
Use as a condiment or for cooking.
22. Black Bean & Cheese Taquitos $3.99/20 oz
These taquitos are dry and underwhelming, with a lackluster filling that doesn’t deliver much flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 230
- Fats: 11g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
Black beans, cheese, tortillas, spices
Preparation Instructions
Bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes.
23. Organic White Truffle Potato Chips $3.29/6 oz
These chips have a strong artificial truffle flavor that overwhelms the palate, making them hard to pair with other foods.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140
- Fats: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbs: 15g
Ingredients
Potatoes, truffle seasoning, sunflower oil
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
24. Avocados $1.99-$4.99/1-6 pack
Trader Joe’s avocados are often overripe or underripe, with a short window of usability, making them a risky purchase.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 240
- Fats: 22g
- Carbs: 12g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Avocado
25. Cauliflower Gnocchi $2.99/12 oz
Though popular, this gnocchi can turn gummy and sticky if not prepared perfectly. It’s not as versatile as regular gnocchi.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140
- Fats: 2.5g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Carbs: 22g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients
Cauliflower, cassava flour, potato starch
Preparation Instructions
Sauté or bake for best results.
26. Jingle Jangle $8.99/22 oz
This seasonal treat is fun but overpriced for the quality of chocolate and mix-ins. It’s more about presentation than flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 130
- Fats: 7g
- Sugar: 13g
Ingredients
Chocolate, pretzels, peanut butter cups
27. Chewy Chocolate & Peanut Butter Protein Bars $2.99/6-pack
These bars have a chalky texture and an artificial flavor that doesn’t satisfy like other protein bars.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150
- Fats: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients
Oats, chocolate chips, peanut butter, soy protein
Worth the Hype
1. Sandwich $6.99/8 oz
The beloved Hot Turkey & Provolone Sandwich has made a triumphant return to Costco’s food court. Featuring oven-roasted turkey, provolone cheese, red onion, tomato, and basil-garlic mayo, this sandwich is served hot on a torta roll for a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 820
- Total Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Sodium: 1,800mg
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 45g
Ingredients
- Oven-roasted turkey breast
- Provolone cheese
- Torta roll
- Basil-garlic mayonnaise
- Red onion
- Tomato
Preparation Instructions
- Served hot and ready at Costco’s food court.
- If refrigerated, reheat in an oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until warm.
2. Sweet Potato Gnocchi $2.99/16 oz
Trader Joe’s Sweet-Potato Gnocchi is a comforting dish with a buttery, slightly sweet flavor, making it a unique twist on traditional gnocchi.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 250
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
- Sweet potato purée
- Wheat flour
- Butter
- Salt
- Seasonings
Preparation Instructions
- Sauté in a pan with butter for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve with additional butter or a sauce of your choice.
3. Chili-Lime Rolled-Corn Tortilla Chips $2.49/9 oz
These rolled-corn tortilla chips from Trader Joe’s pack a bold punch with chili and lime seasoning, making them a flavorful and crunchy snack.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 150
- Total Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
- Corn masa flour
- Vegetable oil
- Chili powder
- Lime flavoring
- Salt
Preparation Instructions
- Ready to eat from the bag.
- Store in a cool, dry place for freshness.
4. Unexpected Cheddar Cheese $3.99/7 oz
Unexpected Cheddar Cheese is one of Trader Joe’s best-selling cheeses, combining the creamy texture of cheddar with the sharpness of aged Parmesan. It’s perfect for snacking, melting, or adding to gourmet recipes.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 110
- Fats: 9g
- Carbs: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 7g
Ingredients
- Pasteurized milk
- Cheese cultures
- Salt
- Enzymes
Preparation Instructions
- Serve with crackers, fruit, or wine for a gourmet cheese board.
- Grate over pasta or salads for an extra layer of flavor.
- Melt in grilled cheese sandwiches for a creamy, sharp taste.
5. Chicken-less Mandarin Orange Morsels $3.79/9.25 oz
A plant-based alternative to the famous Mandarin Orange Chicken, these morsels offer the same crispy texture and tangy-sweet sauce without the meat.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 270
- Fats: 8g
- Carbs: 29g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugar: 15g
- Protein: 20g
Ingredients
- Wheat protein
- Soy protein isolate
- Orange sauce (sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, orange juice)
Preparation Instructions
- Heat in an air fryer at 375°F for 10-12 minutes.
- Toss with the provided sauce and serve over rice or noodles.
6. Seasoned Waffle Fries $3.79/20 oz
These crispy, well-seasoned waffle fries are a favorite snack or side dish, offering a delicious balance of crunch and spice.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 140
- Fats: 7g
- Carbs: 16g
- Sodium: 130mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
- Potatoes
- Canola oil
- Seasoning blend (salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder)
Preparation Instructions
- Bake in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes.
- Cook in an air fryer at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, shaking halfway.
7. Mini Hold The Cone Peppermint Ice Cream Cones $3.99/7.9 oz
These bite-sized ice cream cones are a seasonal delight, combining rich peppermint ice cream with a chocolate-dipped cone.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 260
- Fats: 12g
- Carbs: 32g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 19g
- Protein: 4g
Ingredients
- Peppermint ice cream
- Chocolate coating
- Waffle cone (flour, sugar, vanilla)
Preparation Instructions
- Enjoy straight from the freezer as a small, satisfying treat.
8. Diamond Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $19.99/750ml
This high-quality Napa Valley wine is a steal for its price, offering rich flavors of dark berries, oak, and vanilla.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 125
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 4g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 0g
Ingredients
- Cabernet Sauvignon grapes
- Yeast
- Sulfites (for preservation)
Preparation Instructions
- Serve at room temperature in a red wine glass.
- Pair with aged cheeses or steak for a luxurious meal.
9. Matcha Green Tea Japanese Noodles $3.49/9 oz
These noodles are infused with real matcha, delivering a slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with soy sauce, sesame, or any Asian-inspired sauce. A unique pantry staple for adventurous eaters.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 190 per serving
- Fats: 1g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Wheat flour, matcha green tea powder, salt
Preparation Instructions
Boil in water for 5-7 minutes. Serve with your favorite sauce and toppings.
10. Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups $4.49/16 oz
Creamy peanut butter wrapped in rich dark chocolate—this classic treat is a fan favorite for good reason. Perfect for indulging your sweet tooth.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 70 per piece
- Fats: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Dark chocolate, peanut butter, sugar, cocoa butter, vanilla extract
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat straight out of the container!
11. Trader Joe’s Everything But the Leftovers Seasoning Blend $2.99/2.5 oz
A seasoning blend packed with flavors reminiscent of Thanksgiving dinner. Perfect for roasted veggies, poultry, or soups.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 0
- Sodium: 90mg
Ingredients
Onion, garlic, rosemary, sage, thyme, celery salt
Preparation Instructions
Sprinkle on dishes before cooking or as a finishing touch.
12. Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip $3.99/12 oz
A creamy, tangy dip that’s great with crackers, chips, or veggies. Lower in fat than traditional cream-based dips.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 30
- Fats: 2g
- Protein: 2g
Ingredients
Greek yogurt, spinach, kale, onions, garlic
Preparation Instructions
Serve cold.
13. Cookie Butter $3.69/14.1 oz
This sweet, spiced spread has achieved cult status for a reason. Great on toast, ice cream, or straight from the jar.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 90
- Fats: 6g
- Sugar: 8g
Ingredients
Speculoos cookies, vegetable oils, sugar, cinnamon
Preparation Instructions
Ready to eat.
14. Strawberry Yogurt O’s $2.99/12 oz
A crunchy, fruity cereal that’s a fun twist on breakfast. The real dried strawberries add bursts of tart flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 120
- Fats: 1.5g
- Sugar: 11g
Ingredients
Whole grain oats, dried strawberries, sugar
Preparation Instructions
Serve with milk or as a snack.
15. Asparagus Risotto $3.69/16 oz
A creamy, cheesy risotto that’s easy to prepare and full of fresh asparagus flavor.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 220
- Fats: 9g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 6g
Ingredients
Arborio rice, asparagus, cream, cheese
Preparation Instructions
Microwave or sauté in a pan until hot.
16. Chianti Red Wine Artisan Salami $4.99/8 oz
This flavorful salami is infused with Chianti red wine, giving it a rich and sophisticated taste. It’s perfect for charcuterie boards or as a savory snack.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 90
- Fats: 7g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Protein: 5g
Ingredients
Pork, Chianti wine, spices, garlic, salt
Preparation Instructions
Slice thin and serve with cheese and crackers.
17. Everything But the Bagel Seasoning Blend $2.99/2.3 oz
A versatile seasoning blend featuring sesame seeds, poppy seeds, garlic, onion, and salt. It’s a fan favorite for a reason—it works on everything from avocado toast to roasted veggies.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 5
- Sodium: 80mg
Ingredients
Sesame seeds, poppy seeds, dried garlic, dried onion, salt
Preparation Instructions
Sprinkle on food to taste.
18. Organic Reduced Sugar Cherry Preserves $3.99/11 oz
This jam delivers a burst of tart cherry flavor without overwhelming sweetness. It’s excellent on toast, in desserts, or as a glaze for meats.
Nutritional Facts
- Calories: 25
- Sugar: 5g
Ingredients
Organic cherries, organic sugar, pectin
Preparation Instructions
Spread on bread, mix into yogurt, or use in baking.
Conclusion
Not everything at Trader Joe’s lives up to the hype, but there are plenty of gems worth discovering. Skip the underwhelming options and stock up on standout favorites like Cookie Butter and Everything But the Bagel Seasoning for a satisfying shopping trip. What’s your go-to Trader Joe’s product? Let us know!
