10 Worst Foods at Trader Joe’s That Dietitians Warn Against

Trader Joe’s is known for offering a wide range of unique and delicious products, but not all of them are the healthiest options. Some of their most popular items can be high in sugar, unhealthy fats, and sodium, making them less ideal for anyone trying to maintain a balanced diet. While these treats and snacks may be tempting, they can quickly derail your health goals if consumed regularly. Dietitians often caution against many of these foods, especially for those managing blood sugar, weight, or heart health. Here are some of the worst foods at Trader Joe’s that dietitians warn against.

Mandarin Orange Chicken

Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken is a popular choice, but dietitians often warn against it due to its high calorie and sodium content. The dish is heavily breaded, which adds extra fat and calories. Additionally, the sauce is packed with sugar, making it far from a healthy option for those looking to maintain balanced blood sugar levels. While it is convenient, it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those watching their weight or heart health. The chicken is deep-fried, adding unhealthy fats to the mix. The serving size is also generous, which can easily lead to overeating. If you are looking for a healthier alternative, consider grilled chicken with a lighter homemade sauce.

Cheese Pastry Rolls

Cheese Pastry Rolls are a tempting treat, but they are high in saturated fat and refined carbohydrates. These pastries are loaded with butter and cheese, making them a rich snack that can quickly add up in terms of unhealthy fats. While they may be delicious, they provide little nutritional value beyond empty calories. The sugar content in these rolls also contributes to potential blood sugar spikes. If you are trying to avoid processed foods or manage cholesterol, this snack may not be the best choice. While indulgent, it is important to be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overconsumption. Opting for a whole-grain pastry or a lighter cheese option could offer a healthier alternative.

Gluten-Free Strawberry Muffins

Trader Joe’s Gluten-free Strawberry Muffins may seem like a healthier option for those avoiding gluten, but they are still high in sugar and refined flour. Despite being gluten-free, these muffins contain additives to improve texture and flavor, which can contribute to an increase in calories and sugar intake. Dietitians often warn against foods marketed as “gluten-free” if they are heavily processed and full of sweeteners. The muffins lack essential nutrients like fiber and protein, making them a poor choice for a balanced snack or breakfast. Although gluten-free options are necessary for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, they should not be consumed as a free pass for overeating. These muffins are best enjoyed occasionally, not as an everyday snack. It is always a good idea to pair them with protein-rich foods to make a more balanced meal.

Honey Walnut Shrimp

Trader Joe’s Honey Walnut Shrimp is another item that can be tasty but problematic for those trying to maintain a healthy diet. The shrimp is battered and fried, contributing to its high fat content. The honey glaze adds a lot of sugar, which can make this dish overly sweet and calorically dense. Dietitians warn that the combination of fried food and sugary sauce can lead to spikes in blood sugar and increased cholesterol levels. While shrimp itself is a good source of protein, the preparation method diminishes its health benefits. This dish can also be high in sodium, which is something to be cautious about, especially for individuals with high blood pressure. Opting for grilled shrimp with a homemade sauce could be a much healthier alternative.

Everything But The Bagel Potato Chips

Everything But The Bagel Potato Chips may be a fan favorite, but they are far from a healthy snack. While the seasoning is flavorful, these chips are highly processed and contain unhealthy oils. The amount of sodium in just a small serving can quickly add up, which is concerning for those trying to manage their salt intake. Additionally, the chips lack fiber, which means they will not help keep you full for long. The refined carbohydrates from the potato chips can lead to blood sugar imbalances, making them a poor choice for those with diabetes or anyone trying to avoid sugar crashes. For a more nutritious snack, consider choosing baked chips or fresh vegetables with a light seasoning. These chips are best consumed in moderation to avoid unnecessary calorie and sodium intake.

Mac and Cheese Bites

Trader Joe’s Mac and Cheese Bites are a tempting comfort food but come with their own health concerns. They are breaded and deep-fried, making them high in unhealthy fats. Each bite is also loaded with sodium, which can contribute to hypertension if consumed in excess. While they may be satisfying in the short term, these bites provide little nutritional value beyond empty calories. The high fat and calorie content can quickly derail any health goals, especially for those watching their weight. Instead of these fried snacks, a lighter mac and cheese made with whole grain pasta and reduced-fat cheese would be a much better option. As with many other indulgent snacks, moderation is key to enjoying them without negative health effects.

Tteok Bok Ki

Tteok Bok Ki is a traditional Korean dish made with rice cakes and a spicy-sweet sauce. While delicious, the dish at Trader Joe’s can be high in sugar and sodium, making it a less-than-ideal choice for health-conscious individuals. The rice cakes themselves can be high in refined carbohydrates, which offer little nutritional value. The sauce is often packed with sugar, and the dish may also contain MSG, which can cause issues for people sensitive to additives. This dish should be eaten sparingly, especially if you are monitoring your sodium or sugar intake. For a healthier option, try making Tteok Bok Ki at home using less sugar and homemade sauces. Overall, it is a tasty dish but not the best option for frequent consumption.

Wicked Good Mini Chocolate Bars

While Trader Joe’s Wicked Good Mini Chocolate Bars may satisfy your sweet tooth, they are high in sugar and fat. These chocolate bars are small but pack a punch when it comes to calories, and it is easy to eat more than one serving at a time. They are made with milk chocolate, which is full of added sugar and provides little nutritional value. Although they are convenient for a quick snack, they can cause sugar spikes and crashes, leaving you feeling sluggish later on. Dietitians often warn against sugary treats like these, especially if consumed in excess. For a more nutritious option, try dark chocolate with a higher cocoa content, which offers antioxidants and fewer sugars. Moderation is key when indulging in these sweet treats.

Breaded Cheddar Cheese Curds

Trader Joe’s Breaded Cheddar Cheese Curds may sound like a fun snack, but they are high in fat and sodium. The breading adds a significant amount of refined carbohydrates, while the cheese provides saturated fat. This combination can lead to increased cholesterol levels if eaten regularly. Additionally, the curds are deep-fried, which further adds to their unhealthy fat content. While they can be delicious when enjoyed occasionally, they should not be part of a regular diet, especially for those trying to manage heart health or weight. Opting for a small amount of cheese with whole-grain crackers could provide a healthier alternative. Eating these curds in moderation is important to avoid overindulgence in unhealthy fats.

Speculoos Cookie Butter

Speculoos Cookie Butter is a favorite for many, but it is loaded with sugar, refined oils, and calories. This spread is often used as a quick snack or topping, but it offers very little in terms of nutrition. The high sugar content makes it a poor option for anyone looking to manage their blood sugar or avoid insulin spikes. While it is a delicious treat, it is easy to overeat, leading to an excess of empty calories. For a healthier alternative, consider swapping it for almond butter or a homemade spread with fewer added sugars. It can be tempting to enjoy in larger quantities, but moderation is key to keeping it from negatively affecting your health. Enjoy it occasionally, but not as a regular part of your diet.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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