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I Work at Trader Joe's. Here Are 7 Things I Never Buy There—and What to Get Instead

·2 mins

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I started working at a popular grocery store in 2021 where one of the benefits is that employees get to sample most of the products. My coworkers and I enjoy recommending our favorite items to customers in the store and through social media. However, there are a few products that I personally do not think live up to the hype. Here are seven products that I choose not to purchase and some alternative options:

  1. Instant Cold Brew Coffee
  • Instead, I recommend trying the Organic Cold Brew Coffee which is ready-to-drink and has a smooth taste.
  1. Pesto alla Genovese
  • Instead of the Pesto alla Genovese, I suggest trying the Vegan Kale, Cashew & Basil Pesto which has a nuttier and richer taste and can also be used as a sandwich spread.
  1. Chicken Tikka Masala (refrigerated)
  • I find that the frozen Chicken Tikka Masala has better seasoning and tastes closer to the traditional sauce. The rice is also more flavorful and fragrant.
  1. Shredded Hashbrowns
  • I prefer the Hashbrown patties over the shredded version as they are easier to prepare and can be used in various dishes like breakfast sandwiches or burritos.
  1. Southwest Salad
  • I recommend getting the Southwestern Chopped Salad Kit instead of the ready-to-eat Southwest Salad. The kit offers a larger portion size and fresher flavor.
  1. Korean Short Ribs
  • Instead of the Korean short ribs, I suggest trying the “Bool Kogi” Korean-Inspired Sesame Marinated Boneless Beef Ribs which are easier to eat and grill.
  1. Poppy Pinot Noir
  • The Loudenotte Cuvée Réservée Pinot Noir is a more affordable and complex alternative to the Poppy Pinot Noir.

Although these are my personal opinions, they are not necessarily reflective of my employer or CNBC Make It.

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