Takis are rolled corn snacks with spicy chili lime seasoning. It might surprise you that Trader Joe’s has their own version of Takis. While the two snacks are very similar, there are some subtle differences that are worth noting. Let’s take a look at the essential things to know to successfully compare Takis with Trader Joe’s version of the popular snack.
Contents
Does Trader Joe’s Sell Takis?
Takis fans looking for something similar at Trader Joe’s should look for Trader Joe’s Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips—Chili & Lime Flavored. The Trader Joe’s version is packaged in a pink bag with yellow lettering. This is in keeping with the simplistic design of other Trader Joe’s packaging. Don’t look for the familiar purple of the Takis brand packages.
Trader Joe’s Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips Vs. Takis
When comparing two brands, it’s a good idea to look at both similarities and differences between the two to get as accurate a comparison as possible. Look beyond the packaging, which can sometimes be very similar to the food itself. In this case, the packaging for both products is simple, but they are different colors.
Similarities
The Trader Joe’s Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips are almost identical to original Takis in size and shape. Both have chili lime seasoning on them. Both have a spicy kick to them when you eat them.
Differences
Original Takis have a deep color from the chili flavoring on them. The Trader Joe’s version is lighter in color. They both have a chili flavor, but Trader Joe’s is not so covered in the powder to become the deep orangey-red color. Trader Joe’s also seems to have a more pronounced lime flavor.
Another difference is that original Takis claim to be baked chips while Trader Joe’s is fried. The seasoning is added following the frying process for the latter.
Trader Joe’s Takis Nutrition Facts
Here is a brief synopsis of the nutrition facts for the Trader Joe’s Rolled Corn Tortillas (Chili Lime). This information presents an overview of these chips’ health or weight loss value. For reference, we’ve included the WW Smartpoints value. We used an online calculator to calculate that value.
| Calories (per 1 ounce serving, about 15 chips) | 150 |
| Total Fat
Saturated Fat |
8 grams
0.5 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 260 mg |
| Total Carbs | 17 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sugars (including added sugar) | 0 grams |
| Protein | 2 grams |
| WW points (Smartpoint value) | 5 |
Trader Joe’s Takis Ingredients
Trader Joe’s version of Takis is made with four ingredients. Each ingredient has its own properties. The hot chili and lime-flavored seasoning, for example, is a seasoning made by combining elements.
Stone Ground Yellow Corn
When corn is stone ground (literally between two stones), some of the hulls are left in the final product, which helps retain a higher nutritional value. It also has a coarser texture than other methods of grinding. Corn ground in this way can become meal, grits, or even polenta.
Vegetable Oil
The label indicates that this could be high-oleic sunflower, safflower, or canola oil. It could be any combination of those. High-oleic means that the oil is high in monounsaturated fats, indicating a healthier choice. Some high-oleic oils also have a high polyunsaturated fat content, so chefs (and manufacturers) must choose wisely to maximize health benefits.
Hot Chili and Lime-Flavored Seasoning
The hot chili and lime seasoning is a combination spice blend. It contains, among other things, salt, onion powder, lime juice from concentrate, and the extracts of paprika and turmeric. The paprika and turmeric extracts are used for color, as is beta carotene.
Trace of Lime
This ingredient is self-explanatory. In combination with the lime juice concentrate, it gives the chips their lime flavor.
How Do You Prepare the Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips?
These chips are good on their own as a snack; however, here are a few ideas for serving them.
- With a creamy dip.
- As a topping for soups or salads.
- As a breading for chicken or pork.
- As a topping for an enchilada or taco bake.
- With a sandwich or burger.
- As a spicy topping for macaroni and cheese.
You could use these in exchange for Doritos or corn chips in any recipe that can handle a little extra flavor. Consider checking Trader Joe’s recipe site for more recipes using ingredients from their store.
Are Trader Joe’s Takis Healthy?
Trader Joe’s is known for selling healthy foods. Snacks are no exception. However, there are some less healthy, guilty pleasure options available there. While their version of Takis is more nutritious than some other chip selections elsewhere, they do have about 260 milligrams of sodium per serving which makes them more of a fun snack than a healthy one.
Are Trader Joe’s Rolled Tortilla Chips Healthier Than Regular Takis?
When comparing health factors, it depends upon what you consider healthier. If the only thing you compare is calories, then the original Takis will win in this comparison. However, if you look at all of the components like sodium and added sugars, Trader Joe’s wins. Overall, Trader Joe’s seems to be the healthier option.
Where Else Can You Buy Takis?
You can purchase original Takis almost anywhere you can buy snacks. Trader Joe’s version is available at your local Trader Joe’s, through Amazon, and through the online store for Walmart (third party selling is not condoned by Trader Joe’s, however). If you buy them online, you can expect to pay more. In the store, the Trader Joe’s brand is about $2.50 (prices subject to change at any time) for a 9-ounce bag, whereas online, you’ll pay closer to $7.00 (minimum) for the same size package.
Trader Joe’s Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips-Chili Lime are similar to the original Takis snacks. The seasoning isn’t quite as heavy on the Trader Joe’s version, which gives them a slightly less spicy kick. Less seasoning also means less orange on your hands.
FAQs
Are Trader Joe’s chili lime chips better than Takis?
It comes down to personal preference as to which one is the better-tasting chip. True Takis aficionados might not think they’re better, but they are quite good. Most people who try them say they aren’t quite as spicy as regular Takis, and they have a strong lime flavor.
Are Trader Joe’s Takis gluten free?
Yes. The Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips (similar to Takis) are gluten free.
Are Trader Joe’s Takis vegan?
With only four ingredients, the Trader Joe’s version of Takis is one of the vegan snack options offered by the company.
Are Trader Joe’s Takis fried?
Yes. They are fried and then seasoned.
Do Trader Joe’s Takis have MSG?
There is no MSG in any product labeled with Trader Joe’s name.
How spicy are Trader Joe’s Takis?
They have a kick to them, but the lime flavor seems to stand out. Someone who loves original Takis might think them less spicy than the original.
