Does Trader Joe's sell bottom quality goods?

Question

I know they always claim to stock top quality grocety items and try to appeal to the health conscious. They claim their direct link with their producers enable them to sell items for such low prices, while they package items in their TJ wrapping. I'm wondering if their low prices are a result of obtaining low quality goods. I often see recall notices at the checkout counter that warn about a product containing a foodborne illness or some other potential threat. I never see that stuff at conventional markets or health food stores. Has anyone else noticed this, or is informed on why this is?

Answer 1

i've never found anything i didn't like @ Trader Joe's & don't know of any products i've used as being recalled, but i agree with Bryan

Answer 2

You see the signs because TJ's, unlike most American chains, will always publicize government warnings or recalls prominantly in their stores. It's part of thier "we are more responsible" marketing.

As for their being top quality for the price usually they are (TJ's was tied with Wegman's as the best American grocery chainstore by "Consumer Reports."). But there are areas in which I have noticed TJ's is beginning to falter. During this past winter for example it sold in its Northeastern stores standard B.C. hothouse tomatoes instead of the usually much superior Mirabel Quebec tomatoes even though TJ's was selling the Mirabel hydroponic lettuce. And TJ's butter is some but not notably better than other stores' private label butter. Although it rated TJ's no. 1, "Consumer Reports" not always rates individual TJ's products best of their type.

Answer 3

I don't think they were carrying any more products with food-borne illnesses than any other grocery store.

I've never had a complaint about their quality of goods. In fact they have better hummus and guacamole than anything I found in a regular store! And lamb... I won't buy lamb or pork loin anywhere else, it's perfect. Their organic milk is not ultra-pasturized so it has sooner expiration dates, but I can usually use it up so that's not a problem. Love their cheeses, pizzas, salads, and dolmas. Also I can always count on them to have quinoa and yummy dark chocolate candies. And you can't buy fresh basil anywhere cheaper.

I do wish their selection of ice creams & sorbets was a tad more consistent, but that's usually not what I go there for. They have the best prices on organic dairy, and it's excellent.

Answer 4

Never noticed the signs at TJ's but I will be watching for them now. I tend to agree if there are more recalls/issues it would probally be due to the organic/healthier choices. I have seen the notices in the local grocery store on occasion though.

Answer 5

They have alot of organic goods and food without preservatives. So it is much easier for foodborne illness to get into the food. Thats why there is alot of recalls on certain items.

Answer 6

Now that you say it, I have noticed that too! Strange...

Sorry I do not have an answer for you, but I am curious to see what others say.