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14 Trader Joe’s Items That May Not Live Up To Your Expectations
Trader Joe’s has become a popular grocery chain known for its unique assortment of items and store brand products. With a cult-like following and a reputation for offering delicious and innovative food options, it’s no wonder shoppers flock to Trader Joe’s for their grocery needs. However, like any other store, not every product hits the mark. In this article, we’ll explore 14 Trader Joe’s items that have left some customers disappointed. From chips to condiments and everything in between, here are the items that may not live up to your expectations.
1. Everything but the Bagel Chips
Trader Joe’s Everything But the Bagel seasoning blend has gained a loyal following since its introduction in 2017. Naturally, the company decided to sprinkle the iconic seasoning on everything, including kettle-cooked potato chips. However, many fans were disappointed with the results. Some found the chips too sweet, while others felt they didn’t live up to the flavorful experience of an Everything Bagel. While there are mixed reactions among reviewers, it seems that these chips may not be for everyone.
2. Cheesy seasoning mix
Trader Joe’s offers a variety of seasonings, including a cheesy seasoning blend. The idea of adding cheese flavor to any dish sounds appealing, but this particular blend seems to have missed the mark. Some customers noted that the Cheesy Seasoning didn’t actually taste like cheese. Instead, the primary flavors were garlic, onion, and rosemary. If you’re expecting a cheesy explosion of flavor, you may be disappointed with this seasoning blend.
3. Joe Joe’s Cookies
If you’re a fan of the classic Oreo cookie, you may have high hopes for Trader Joe’s Joe Joe’s Chocolate and Vanilla Cream Cookies. While some customers prefer Joe Joe’s to Oreos, many have found the flavor of the Trader Joe’s version to be lacking. In a Reddit thread, customers expressed their disappointment with the taste and even returned their boxes to the store. Trader Joe’s also offers seasonal variations of the Joe Joe’s cookies, but not all have received positive reviews.
4. Overnight Oats
Trader Joe’s sells its own version of vanilla overnight oats, which are convenient for a quick and easy breakfast. However, some customers have been less than thrilled with the taste and found the price to be disappointing. While the meal is budget-friendly, costing $1.99 for a small cup, it only contains 5.5 ounces. If you’re looking for a more satisfying and inexpensive option, making your own overnight oats might be the way to go.
5. Beef Pho Soup
Trader Joe’s frozen beef pho soup seems to be universally disliked by repeat customers. Despite attempts to improve the dish by adding spices and seasonings, many customers found the frozen pho to be “beyond redemption” and bland. Reviews mention that it doesn’t live up to the flavorful experience of good pho. While customers crave a quick and easy frozen pho meal, Trader Joe’s may not be meeting their expectations.
6. Cauliflower Pizza Crust
Cauliflower pizza crusts have gained popularity among those seeking gluten-free or healthier alternatives to traditional pizza crusts. Trader Joe’s offers its own version of cauliflower pizza crust, but it may not be as nutritious as some customers had hoped. While it’s gluten-free, one-sixth of the crust contains 17 grams of carbohydrates, thanks to ingredients like corn flour, cornstarch, and potato starch. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, explore other alternatives or try making your own cauliflower crust.
7. Vodka Sauce
Vodka sauce can add a unique flavor to pasta dishes, and many shoppers are tempted to try Trader Joe’s pre-made vodka sauce. However, reviews are mixed. While some enjoy the flavor, others find it more reminiscent of a basic marinara sauce than a true vodka sauce. The lack of a distinct vodka flavor has been a disappointment for some customers. If you’re craving authentic vodka sauce, you may be better off making it from scratch with a simple Penne alla Vodka recipe.
8. Watermelon Jerky
Dried fruit has become a popular snack option, and Trader Joe’s offers a variety of dried fruit products, including watermelon jerky. However, this particular product has received mixed reviews. Some customers described it as “an abomination of anything called jerky” and were put off by the presence of crunchy black seeds. The taste was compared to “solidified garbage juice” by one Redditor. If you’re looking for a satisfying dried fruit snack, you may want to explore other options.
While Trader Joe’s has many hits, it’s important to remember that not every product is a winner. These 14 items have disappointed some customers, whether it’s taste, consistency, or price. However, it’s worth noting that taste is subjective, and what some people don’t like may be enjoyed by others. It’s always a good idea to read reviews, try samples if available, and trust your own palate when exploring new products at Trader Joe’s or any other grocery store. Remember, finding your favorites is part of the adventure of shopping at Trader Joe’s, and there are many gems waiting to be discovered.
FAQS
Answer: Some Trader Joe’s items that have disappointed customers include Everything but the Bagel Chips, Cheesy Seasoning Blend, Joe Joe’s Cookies, Overnight Oats, Beef Pho Soup and Cauliflower Pizza Crust.
Why is Everything But The Bagel Chips disappointing?
Answer: While the Everything But the Bagel seasoning blend is popular, the chips coated with the seasoning have received mixed reviews. Some customers have found them to be too sweet or lacking the flavor experience of an Everything But the Bagel.
What is wrong with Trader Joe’s Cheesy Seasoning Blend?
Answer: Despite its promising name, Trader Joe’s Cheesy Seasoning Blend has disappointed many customers. It doesn’t taste like cheese, but instead tastes like garlic, onion, and rosemary.
How do Joe Joe’s cookies compare to Oreos?
Answer: While some customers prefer Joe Joe’s Cookies to Oreos, many have found the Trader Joe’s version to be lacking in flavor. For some, the taste of Joe Joe’s Cookies just doesn’t measure up to the classic Oreo experience.
Why are customers disappointed in Trader Joe’s Beef Pho Soup?
Answer: Trader Joe’s frozen beef pho soup has received negative feedback from customers. Many find it bland and unsatisfying, lacking the authentic and flavorful experience of a good pho.
What is the problem with Trader Joe’s cauliflower pizza crust?
Answer: Trader Joe’s Cauliflower Pizza Crust, while marketed as a gluten-free and healthier alternative, may not be as nutritious as some customers had hoped. It contains a relatively high amount of carbohydrates, which may be disappointing for those looking for a low-carb option.