Image Credit: Diana Liang
by KELLI FOSTER
Image Credit: Lauren Masur
I’ve never been shy about professing my love for all the wonderful things Trader Joe’s has to offer, but there are some things I just can’t bring myself to buy at this beloved store (for a multitude of reasons).
Image Credit: Joe Lingeman
Perhaps I just haven’t tried the right blend, but Trader Joe’s coffee just doesn’t do it for me. I have sampled a number of their beans, but the flavor always tastes muted and flat.
Image Credit: Michaela Cisney
The selection is robust and the prices are almost always better than my traditional grocery store, but the TJ’s stuff often spoils so quickly.
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There are certain times I’m willing to pay a premium for better quality, and fresh seafood is one example. I’d rather make a trip to my local fish monger (or even to Whole Foods), even though I know I could get something for less money at Trader Joe’s.
Image Credit: Courtesy of Melanie
Trader Joe’s has an especially wide variety of marinated meat, but they don’t make their way into my cart, because they are way too salty for my taste. And I’m a salt-lover, so that’s saying a lot!)
Image Credit: Lauren Masur
I’ve tried the TJ’s mix several times, most recently during a family trip, and it didn’t deliver as well as other name-brand box mixes.