Shopping at Trader Joe’s can feel like a treasure hunt, with aisles full of unique products and tempting options. While many items earn rave reviews, some may not live up to the hype. In this article, you’ll discover nine Trader Joe’s products that are often considered overpriced and overrated.
You might find yourself wondering if the popular choices truly deliver value for your wallet. With so many options available, it’s helpful to identify which items you might want to skip on your next shopping trip. Let’s dive into the picks that might not be worth your hard-earned cash.
Mandarin Orange Chicken
Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has a reputation among shoppers, but it might not be living up to the hype. Many people have noticed a decline in quality, with reports of gristly chicken and burnt breading.
You might find that the vegan version is slightly better, but opinions vary. Some folks argue that this dish is overrated compared to other offerings at Trader Joe’s. If you’re looking for a quick meal, you might want to explore other options.
Everything but the Bagel Seasoning
You’ve probably seen it everywhere. Trader Joe’s Everything but the Bagel Seasoning has become a staple for many. While it adds a nice crunch and flavor to meals, some find the hype a bit much. It’s just a mix of sesame seeds, salt, and garlic.
You might enjoy it on avocado toast, but options are plentiful. There are many spices and blends that can elevate your dishes just as well. For the price, you could explore other seasonings that offer unique flavor profiles. Don’t be surprised if you feel it’s not worth the buzz.
Speculoos Cookie Butter Spread
Speculoos Cookie Butter is a popular product at Trader Joe’s, but some find it overrated. While it has a unique gingerbread-like flavor, the taste can feel a bit one-dimensional. Many enjoy it as a spread, but if you’re expecting something revolutionary, it might not meet your expectations.
You might discover that it doesn’t offer the excitement some claim. Some customers wonder why it’s such a hit when it simply tastes like sweet cookies. Ultimately, your preference will determine if it’s worth the hype.
Crunchy Chili Onion
If you’ve tried Trader Joe’s Crunchy Chili Onion, you might have mixed feelings. Some people love it for its crispy texture and spice, while others think it’s overpriced for what it delivers.
At around $3.99 for a small jar, you could find similar products for less. Many fans suggest trying Momofuku’s version, which offers a comparable taste for a similar price. You might want to experiment to see if it’s worth the hype for your pantry!
Joe-Joe’s
Joe-Joe’s are Trader Joe’s take on sandwich cookies, often compared to Oreos. While they have a fun variety of flavors, many shoppers find them overpriced for what you get.
The allure of Joe-Joe’s can fade once you realize that similar cookies are available elsewhere for less. If you’re looking for a cookie fix, you might want to explore cheaper options.
That said, they can be an enjoyable treat if you love trying new flavors. Just keep in mind that you might be paying a premium for the novelty.
Jingle Jangle
Jingle Jangle is a popular treat from Trader Joe’s, but many shoppers think it’s a bit overpriced. Priced at $8.99, it can feel steep, especially when you consider how quickly you go through a tin.
While it has a fun mix of chocolate-covered pretzels and popcorn, some say it tends to go stale towards the end.
You might enjoy it, but it’s worth considering if it really lives up to the hype.
Cauliflower Gnocchi
If you’ve tried Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Gnocchi, you might have mixed feelings. Some find the texture off-putting, comparing it to bits of dried glue.
Many shoppers rave about the lower carbs, but the taste isn’t as celebrated.
You may have noticed it often appears on both best and worst lists. Despite the hype, it’s a polarizing product that leaves some fans scratching their heads.
Hash Browns
Trader Joe’s hash browns can feel like a breakfast staple, but some argue they’re a bit overpriced. For about $2.79, you get a pack of ten, which might seem like a deal compared to fast food prices.
Yet, you can often find similar products at lower prices elsewhere. If you’re expecting a unique flavor or texture, you may be disappointed. Many find them just average compared to other frozen options.
