While Trader Joe’s is known for its cult favorites and unique finds, not every product hits the mark. According to both food editors and customers, some items are better left on the shelf. Here’s a list of seven Trader Joe’s products you might want to think twice about before adding to your cart.
1. Cheese Filled Fiocchetti with Pink Sauce $4.49/16 Oz
Despite the appealing description, this pasta dish often disappoints with a lackluster sauce and a cheese filling that lacks depth.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 290
- Fats: 17g
- Carbs: 26g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 8g
Ingredients:
Pasta (wheat, eggs), ricotta cheese, tomato cream sauce.
Preparation Instructions:
Boil pasta for 4-5 minutes, heat sauce separately and combine.
2. Vegetable Pad Thai $3.49/10.5 Oz
This ready-made meal promises authentic Thai flavor but is often criticized for being overly sweet and not spicy enough.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 360
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 55g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 27g
- Protein: 10g
Ingredients:
Rice noodles, tofu, vegetables, tamarind sauce.
Preparation Instructions:
Microwave on high for 3 minutes, let stand, then serve.
3. Breaded Cheddar Cheese Curds $4.99/16 Oz
While enticing, these cheese curds can be overly greasy and lack the expected crispy texture.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 230
- Fats: 0g
- Carbs: 26g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
- Protein: 9g
Ingredients:
Cheddar cheese, wheat flour, soybean oil, beer batter.
Preparation Instructions:
Deep fry for 3-4 minutes or bake for 20 minutes at 400°F.
4. Italian Style Meatballs $4.99/16 Oz
These meatballs are often criticized for their tough texture and lack of authentic Italian flavor.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 240
- Fats: 20g
- Carbs: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 11g
Ingredients:
Beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Italian cheese, herbs.
Preparation Instructions:
Simmer in sauce for 25-30 minutes or bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.
5. Mashed Potatoes $4.29/28 Oz
Although convenient, these mashed potatoes lack the homemade creamy texture and flavor, often tasting too processed.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 150
- Fats: 6g
- Carbs: 15g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 3g
Ingredients:
Potatoes, milk, butter, salt.
Preparation Instructions:
Microwave for 5 minutes, stir, and serve.
6. Chicken Karaage $6.49/18.97 Oz
Aimed to be a quick tasty snack, this chicken karaage is often found too oily and lacking in flavor.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 340
- Fats: 20g
- Carbs: 25g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 15g
Ingredients:
Chicken thigh meat, soy sauce, ginger, starch, spices.
Preparation Instructions:
Fry in oil for 3-4 minutes until crispy or bake at 400°F for 20 minutes.
7. Mac and Cheese Bites $3.99/10 Oz
These bite-sized snacks promise a creamy and cheesy experience but often fall flat with a bland taste and mushy texture.
Nutritional Facts:
- Calories per serving: 190
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 19g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 0g
- Protein: 7g
Protein: 9g
Ingredients:
Cheese blend, wheat flour, milk, eggs, breadcrumbs.
Preparation Instructions:
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Final Say
These seven products from Trader Joe’s might not meet the expectations set by their other fantastic offerings. Next time you’re shopping, you might want to pass these by in favor of something else on the shelves!
