I started working at Trader Joe’s in 2021. One of the biggest perks of being a crew member is that we get to sample almost everything. My coworkers and I love recommending our favorite items to customers in the store and on social media.
Since we’re all diehard fans, we enjoy most of the foods. But every once in a while, we get questions about what isn’t worth the hype.
Here are seven products I refuse to buy — and what to get instead:
1. Instant Cold Brew Coffee
What to buy instead: Organic Cold Brew Coffee, $5.49
Trader Joe’s Instant Cold Brew Coffee is a fine, dark powder made of 100% Arabica coffee beans. But no matter how much powder I use, the result always tastes watered down.
I prefer the Organic Cold Brew Coffee, which is seeped for 20 hours, mixed with espresso, and finished with a nitrogen fusion. It’s slightly more expensive, but comes ready-to-drink and has that smooth taste you typically find at a coffee shop.
2. Pesto alla Genovese
What to buy instead: Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto, $3.99
I have a few problems with the Pesto alla Genovese: It’s oily, salty and has a weak basil flavor.
But the Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto sauce is a customer favorite. It has more of a nutty, rich taste. And because it’s thicker, you can use it as a sandwich spread.
3. Chicken Tikka Masala (refrigerated)
What to buy instead: Frozen Chicken Tikka Masala, $4.49
The frozen Chicken Tikka Masala reigns over the version in the refrigerated aisle. It’s much more seasoned and tastes closer to the traditional sauce. I also love how flavorful and fragrant the rice is.
4. Shredded Hashbrowns
What to buy instead: Hashbrowns, $2.49
I prefer Trader Joe’s hashbrown patties over its shredded version, which tends to clump up in the bag and is more difficult to prepare.
The patties are perfectly portioned and easy to pan fry or cook in the air…
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