When you walk into a Trader Joe’s for the first time, you’re probably going to be overwhelmed by possibilities. But the old hands at the local grocery store may notice huge gaps in the shelves where their favorite items used to be as soon as they glance at the inventory.
Though Trader Joes occasionally eliminates (mostly) underperforming merchandise, even store favorites aren’t always safe from being eliminated. According to Real Simple, there are few reasons the retailer could discontinue your favorite products.
There are certain products that have a small but dedicated following. Thats not always enough for the company to keep them around. Items need to sell well across many locations in order to justify the dedicated shelf space.
“When a product doesn’t work… [Trader Joes business model] dictates that the team should develop something new that might sell better and make more customers happy,” marketing vice president Tara Miller said on the brand’s podcast. “.
The other factor is the recent supply chain challenges. If there is a problem with any of the product’s ingredients, Trader Joes may have to discontinue the item completely.
“[A product may be discontinued] if there are quality issues or if we determine that the value that we once had is no longer as strong—if we are facing different competitive pressures on a given product,” stated Matt Sloan, another vice president of marketing, in the podcast episode. “.
To that end, here are all the products that left Trader Joes this year. Were hoping this list will help you find some closure—and maybe even some alternatives.
When customers learned that this hot red sauce was being removed from the shelves in early January, it was a difficult way to start the year. Shoppers posted on Reddit about the disappointing loss. “This sauce is one of the best sauces you can get. I lived in Italy for a while and the TJs is still one of my faves. What a shame,” commented u/steeplechase_jr.
The reason, some were told by crew members, was that Trader Joes lost its supplier. “A store in Arizona said on the computer that they were looking for a new vendor, but they weren’t able to find one, and as of January 22, it appeared that they were discontinued,” u/yayitssunny said.
The good news is that Raos sells an authentic Italian jarred Arrabiata Sauce at certain grocers. Its pricier, but its also likely one of the best sauces out there.
Out of all Trader Joes frozen pizzas, this was the favorite of many. However, @traderjoestobediscontinued, an Instagram fan account that alerts customers to the newest product announcements, verified the discontinuation in January, ending months of rumors about inconsistent supply. “Booo! This was the best pizza they have ever sold. How disappointing. Bad choice on their part,” commented one disappointed customer.
As for why it was so popular, the quality was top notch. One commenter said, “The Trader Joes Arugula Pizza is my favorite Trader Joes pizza. Its an authentic pizza made in Italy with natural ingredients. No additives or artificial / heavily processed ingredients. “6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e.
While it might never taste the same, you could try topping a plain cheese pizza with fresh arugula and tomatoes as a substitute. Adding balsamic glaze, per one Redditors suggestion, could take it to the next level.
Summer has come and gone, and with it, a few of our favorite Trader Joe’s items have bid us adieu. While the grocery giant is constantly introducing new and exciting products to its shelves, it’s inevitable that some beloved items must make way for the new.
This summer, several fan-favorite products have been discontinued, leaving a void in our hearts and stomachs. Let’s take a moment to remember these departed delights and bid them a fond farewell
1. Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips: A Spicy Farewell
These rolled corn tortilla chips, inspired by the popular Takis snack, were a hit with many Trader Joe’s shoppers Their fiery chili and lime flavor offered a satisfyingly spicy kick, making them a perfect snack for those who crave a bit of heat.
Sadly, these chips have been discontinued, leaving a hole in the hearts of many fans. However, there’s a glimmer of hope: some Trader Joe’s crew members have reported that the chips may still be available at select stores, as discontinuation often varies by region. So, if you’re lucky enough to find them, grab a bag and savor the spicy goodness while you can.
2. Dark Russet Potato Chips: A Crunchy Departure
These kettle-cooked chips, made with dark russet potatoes, were another casualty of Trader Joe’s summer discontinuations. Their thick-cut texture and robust flavor made them a satisfying snack, perfect for dipping or simply enjoying on their own.
The news of their departure was met with disappointment from many shoppers, who took to social media to express their sadness. But fear not, fellow chip enthusiasts! Trader Joe’s still offers a wide variety of other delicious chip options, so you’re sure to find a new favorite to fill the void.
3. Vegan Beet Hummus Rainbow Wrap: A Farewell to Freshness
This vibrant wrap, filled with hummus, roasted vegetables, and a rainbow of colorful bell peppers, was a popular choice for vegans and vegetarians alike. Its fresh flavors and satisfying texture made it a perfect lunch or light meal option.
Unfortunately, the Vegan Beet Hummus Rainbow Wrap has been discontinued, leaving many shoppers searching for a new go-to lunch option. While the exact reason for its departure remains unclear, some speculate that it may have been due to low sales or product complications.
4. Organic Chia Bar: A Farewell to Energy
These energy bars, packed with chia seeds, almonds, cranberries, and pumpkin seeds, were a favorite among health-conscious shoppers. They provided a convenient and delicious way to fuel up on-the-go, making them a popular choice for busy mornings or afternoon pick-me-ups.
The discontinuation of the Organic Chia Bar has left many shoppers disappointed, as they were a reliable source of energy and nutrients. However, Trader Joe’s still offers a variety of other energy bar options, so you can still find a tasty and convenient way to power through your day.
5. Popcorn in a Pickle: A Farewell to Dill-iciousness
This unique and quirky snack, featuring popcorn seasoned with dill pickle flavor, was a hit with adventurous eaters. Its tangy and savory flavor offered a surprising twist on traditional popcorn, making it a fun and unexpected treat.
However, the Popcorn in a Pickle has been discontinued, leaving pickle-flavored popcorn enthusiasts searching for a new fix. Thankfully, Trader Joe’s has introduced a new pickle seasoning, which can be sprinkled on fresh popcorn to recreate the dill-icious flavor.
6. “Just Sauce” Turkey Bolognese: A Farewell to Ragù
This tomato-based ragù sauce, made with ground turkey, was a versatile and flavorful addition to pasta dishes and sandwiches. Its rich flavor and hearty texture made it a satisfying and easy meal option.
Sadly, the “Just Sauce” Turkey Bolognese has been discontinued, leaving many shoppers searching for a new go-to sauce. While the exact reason for its departure remains unclear, some speculate that it may have been due to low sales or product complications.
A Fond Farewell
While it’s always sad to see our favorite items disappear from Trader Joe’s shelves, it’s important to remember that new and exciting products are always on the horizon. So, let’s raise a glass (or a fork) to the departed delights and look forward to the delicious discoveries that await us in the future.
Thai Iced Tea Mochi
One reason this neighborhood grocery store is so beloved? Giving you access to a catalog of international treats. Trader Joes has dabbled in the mochi game before, bringing ube, green tea, and strawberry ice cream-filled rice cakes to your freezer. But in March, the retailer said goodbye to the popular Thai Iced Tea flavor, along with the mango.
“Im gonna cryyyyy. it was the only one at TJs that was vegan! all the rest they changed the ingredients to have milk and eggs,” commented u/hobobonobo88. Others in the thread crossed their fingers for another dairy-free mochi option, but only time will tell what desserts take its place.
Jalapeño Pepper Hot Sauce
When you need to kick up the flavor a few notches, a fiery hot sauce can be handy to have in your fridge. The Jalapeño Pepper Hot Sauce was a go-to for TJs customers, so its unclear why it was dropped this past February.
“This is the best hot sauce ever. Cant believe they discontinued it,” said u/realitybeats. “I used to work at TJs and asked an employee. The habanero is coming back but not the jalapeño.”
People were quick to chime in and offer Arizona Gunslinger Red Jalapeño Pepper Sauce as a formidable alternative, if not a better option altogether. “Arizona Gunslinger Jalapeño Pepper Sauce is very close to this to the point that I was disappointed when I tried this Trader Joes sauce, since I was hoping for something different,” added u/NinjaRaver208.
Trader Joes used to carry wet food for both your feline and canine companions. However, a Reddit post states that the grocery store had to reduce these in April due to a disruption in the production of aluminum.
People were sad to see them go, especially because they found TJs prices more affordable than other pet food sources. “So sad! My dogs love the grain free canned dog food, and its like half the price from TJs compared [to] similar options,” commented u/wvegmadebones.
You can still shop for a limited selection of dog food and treats during your normal grocery run, but pet owners are definitely going to miss the variety that Trader Joes used to have for their furry friends.
Trader Joe’s Turkey Bolognese Product Review
Does Trader Joe’s have Turkey Bolognese?
Then, one day while roaming the frozen food aisle at Trader Joe’s, something miraculous happened: I spotted a box which read “Just the Sauce: Turkey Bolognese.” I was understandably skeptical. After all, how could a frozen pasta sauce possibly compare to the real thing?
What happened to Turkey Bolognese?
“Just Sauce” Turkey Bolognese This tomato-based ragù sauce made with ground turkey is great on pasta or on bread (to make a Sloppy Joe). But sadly, it has also been discontinued and will no longer be available for purchase. “My store in Reno, NV hasn’t had it in a very long time,” wrote one user on Instagram.
What’s gone from Trader Joe’s?
These crunchy, kettle-cooked chips are another fan-favorite item that has been removed from store shelves. The announcement was made by Trader Joe’s to be discontinued, an Instagram blogger who routinely highlights discontinued TJ’s items. “Why?! I am crushed that @traderjoes would discontinue something that was so right!”
Does Trader Joe’s have discontinued food products?
There’s a constantly rotating list of discontinued food products at Trader Joe’s that people are sorely disappointed to see go by the wayside. Some items quietly come and go, while others garner a huge outcry online. If you love something from Trader Joe’s, it would behoove you to stock up just in case.