Trader Joe's Prices Are Up, but These 10 Products Are Still the Best Buys
These great Trader Joe’s products are my go-to’s for saving on my grocery bill.
Reviewed by Dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD
Trader Joe's prices may not be what they were back in the '80s when my father dragged me through the aisles of the eccentric supermarket chain. But even amid rising food prices, Trader Joe's continues to offer its customers some of the lowest prices on quality products.
Sure, you could score big deals at warehouse stores—if you enjoy membership fees and the anxiety of shopping alongside hundreds of people or buying a lifetime supply of tinned tuna fish. As for me—someone with a relatively humble food budget—I prefer the smaller footprint of Trader Joe's stores and the unique selection of curated products. More importantly, I've come to rely on the retailer for the best deals on my staples, as well as a few treats.
So even though Trader Joe's prices are up (like everywhere else), there are plenty of great buys still to be had. Here are 10 of my favorites you might want to pick up the next time you're there. And for any big-box store fans, you might just be pleasantly surprised at the savings.
1. Eggs
It used to be that eggs were a cheap, reliable source of protein. Without getting into all the not-so-appetizing reasons, the fact is that egg prices increased some 70% this year alone. While there are tons of egg varieties to choose from, good ol' Grade A large white eggs are nothing to turn your nose up at—especially when Trader Joe's offers a cage-free dozen for only $2.99.
2. Fish
Canned tuna isn't exactly known for breaking the bank but, alas, inflation has left nothing untouched. And as for salmon, a good fillet of fish has always cost a bit more than its canned counterparts. But at Trader Joe's, you can pick up a 5-ounce can of albacore tuna for $1.99 and score Norwegian salmon fillets for only $9.99 a pound.
3. Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil is an item that I almost never buy at conventional supermarket chains. The markup is extreme, and it's not unusual to see a 1-liter bottle going for $20 or more. Save yourself some money and go directly for Trader Giotto's 100% Italian Extra Virgin Oil. It's a real savings at $9.99 a liter.
4. Spices & Seasonings
It's surprising how much a tiny jar of seasoning can set you back. But as far as I can tell, Trader Joe's hasn't touched the prices of its spices and seasonings in the past several years. In fact, staples including onion powder, cumin, dried thyme, crushed red pepper and salt grinders are still only $1.99. For another dollar—give or take—you can have some real seasoning fun. I recommend trying the Cuban Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend and the Ranch Seasoning Blend for whipping up delicious dips and dressings.
5. Cheese
Trader Joe's dairy section is a cheese lover's dream. They stock elevated finds like creamy French Brie, briny feta imported straight from Greece, and their fan-favorite Unexpected Cheddar. And the prices are exceptional. But even if you're just looking for the basics, you're sure to save. Think 12 mozzarella sticks for $2.99 and a brick of cream cheese for only $1.99.
6. Nuts
Nut prices are, well, nuts. And because I don't eat them in large enough quantities that it makes sense to buy in bulk, I get mine at Trader Joe's. I always grab the raw almonds (16 ounces for $4.99) and a whole pound of dry-roasted and salted pistachios for $6.99. If those aren't calling your name, there's an entire aisle of nuts (and dried fruits) to choose from.
7. Canned Fruits & Vegetables
I'm going to be really honest here: I'm not a huge fan of the fresh produce at Trader Joe's. There are only a few picks that make their way into my cart, like the bagged lettuces. But my must-have when it comes to fruits and vegetables can't be found in the produce section. That's because it's canned, and it's the best price I've seen anywhere for Italian San Marzano tomatoes ($3.99 for the big 28-ounce can). And I can't go without mentioning the super-sweet jarred peaches.
8. Bread
White bread, gluten-free bread, brioche bread—you get the point: Trader Joe's knows bread. While some of the varieties may not be of artisanal quality, I still think they offer a pretty decent French baguette (it's organic and only $1.99). And the seasonal baked goods (did someone say pumpkin bread?) are simply too tempting to pass up.
9. Coffee & Chocolate
I'm grouping these together since they're both sources of caffeine … and joy. Trader Joe's imports an impressive lineup of coffees (and teas), including the best-selling Colombo Supremo Coffee that comes in giant 28-ounce cans for $14.99. Speaking of giant things, the "Pound Plus" chocolate bars (17.6 ounces to be exact) are great for baking or eating plain, and they come in a ton of varieties.
10. Wine
For many, wine is an essential (raises hand), but because food prices are so high, it's usually the first thing to get crossed off the shopping list. So whether you're looking to treat yourself or your guests, you can count on Trader Joe's for its excellent selection of wines. I may not be a sommelier, but I've been pleasantly surprised with wines that cost me well under 10 bucks—like the full-bodied Spanish 2019 El Castilla Syrah ($6.99).
Read the original article on Eating Well.
