Yes, Trader Joe’s produce is getting cheaper (and there’s a surprising reason why)

Attention, Trader Joe’s shoppers: Produce prices are about to get even lower.

On a recent episode of the store’s new podcast, Inside Trader Joe’s, Jack Salamon—the category manager for produce—revealed that TJs is dropping its prices for a good cause.

You see, Trader Joe’s is making an effort to reduce the amount of plastic packing materials, which—lucky for us—resulted in a price cut.

“The cost of putting those two little heads of garlic in a sleeve added a lot to our costs. But now, you can go to Trader Joe’s and get a big clove of garlic for 49 cents,” Salamon said.

65 PHOTOSEverything new to Trader Joe's in 2019See GalleryEverything new to Trader Joe's in 2019

Bloody Mary Salsa

Think of the brunch cocktail, but in dip form. According to Trader Joe’s,"this tomato base is buoyed by sour pickling brine and nose-tingling horseradish, along with red jalapeño peppers and green chile peppers for heat."

Launched in June 2019

Mini Meyer Lemon Flavored Biscotti

These mini biscotti are cooked twice so they’re extra crunchy and pack in the flavor of real Meyer Lemon. Get them for a limited time!

Launched in June 2019

Organic Cold Pressed Green Juice Beverage

If you’re not so great about fulfilling your serving of fruits and veggies each day, you should pick up one of these. Each bottle contains one cucumber, two stalks of celery, a quarter of a grapefruit, a quarter of a head of lettuce, one kale leaf, four spinach leaves, six sprigs of parsley, a teaspoon of mint tea, and a dash of lemon.

Launched in June 2019

Green Tea Mochi

Trader Joe’s is bringing back mochi under its private label, and the first flavor in its lineup is green tea. According to Trader Joe’s, it’s made with real green tea leaf powder and colored with turmeric extract and spirulina.

Launched in June 2019

Soft Baked Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies

Call it a miracle! These cookies have a soft and chewy texture that lasts for weeks, but are made without all those yucky preservatives. Plus, they’re super, duper peanut-y, made with peanut butter, peanut oil and dry roasted peanuts.

Launched in June 2019

Honey Pale Ale Mustard

Sold for a limited time while supplies last, the Honey Pale Ale Mustard starts with a base of honey mustard that’s combined with craft pale ale from an independent brewery in Northern California for a hoppy, earthy taste.

Launched in June 2019

Banana Date Nut Bread Crisps

It’s like your favorite bread, but made crispy and crunchy. Trader Joe’s makes these by baking bread, slicing it thinly and baking it again. Eat it like a cracker with cheese and fruit or chow down like it’s a crispy cookie. 

Launched in May 2019

Cold Brew Coconut Cream Lattes

These cold brew lattes—in original coffee and caramel spice flavors—will wake you up with a smile (especially our dairy-free and vegan friends!).

Launched in May 2019

Organic Crumbled Feta Cheese

It’s darn good feta cheese, but made organic with cow’s milk (instead of traditional sheep’s milk). 

Launched in May 2019

Ghost Chili BBQ Sauce

Ghost peppers are HOT! But combined with sweet BBQ sauce, it’s more than doable. 

Launched in May 2019

Dark Chocolate and Milk Chocolate Covered Mini Pretzels

While it’s true Trader Joe’s has had chocolate covered pretzels in the past, these are an upgrade from a new supplier with a new recipe. Think darker and better quality of chocolate.

Launched in May 2019

Benne Wafer Cookies

These cookies (pronounced like "benny") are made from a wheat flour cookie batter and benne (a variety of sesame seeds). They’re baked crispy and have a candy-like texture that’s nutty, maple-y and oh, so good. 

Launched in May 2019

Jalapeño Sauce

If you’ve ever been to Austin, Texas, you’ve tried their creamy jalapeño sauce that’s goes great on just about anything. Well, this is a lot like that—not too spicy and creamy (yet it’s vegan!).

Launched in May 2019

Sparkling Watermelon Juice

This juice has zero grams of added sugar, only the stuff derived from fresh watermelon juice. It’s sweet and bubbly and perfect on its own or poured into a cocktail. 

Launched in May 2019

Egg Frittata

New to the frozen section, these light and fluffy frittatas are made with eggs, Swiss cheese, fried onions and cauliflower. And, they pack 12 grams of protein per serving!

Launched in May 2019

Buttermilk Protein Pancake Mix

These protein-packed pancakes are made with whole wheat flour, whole grain oat flour, whey protein concentrate and buttermilk powder. You can also make this mix into waffles!

Launched in May 2019

Organic Coleslaw Kit

Serve it as a side for summer barbecues or add it as a sandwich filler—it’s the perfect complement to smoky, spicy meats.

Launched in May 2019

Villa Alena Rosé

There’s a new rosé on the shelves of TJ’s! This easy-drinking wine is imported from Piedmonte, Italy.

Launched in May 2019

Mochi Cake Mix

You might think of ice cream when you think of mochi, but the rice paste used to make the ice cream’s "wrapper" can be used in other desserts as well. 

This cake is inspired by Hawaii’s butter mochi that has a bouncy texture and sweet flavor. 

Launched in April 2019

Organic Chocolate Chip Cookies

They’re chocolate chip cookies, but made organically. Eat them on their own, in your favorite dessert, or go crazy and dip them in this Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Dip.

Launched in April 2019

Tortilla Chips Seasoned With Brussels Sprouts

These tortilla chips are seasoned with powdered, freeze-dried Brussels sprouts, baked and seasoned again with garlic, onion and parsley for a nutty, rich flavor.

Launched in April 2019

Organic Vanilla Wafer Cookies

These are classic vanilla wafers, but made organic! Eat them on their own or as part of your favorite dessert.

Launched in April 2019

Jerk-Style Plantain Chips

These chips draw inspiration from classic Jamaican cooking and coat plantain chips in jerk seasoning, which is a mix of allspice, garlic powder, cinnamon, coriander, nutmeg and ginger extract. One chip is not necessarily spicy on its own, but with each bite the spice builds.

Launched in April 2019

Milk & Dark Chocolate Butterscotch Bits Bar

This candy bar, which combines both milk and dark chocolate, and is accented with crunchy Butterscotch bits, is practically made for sharing. 

Launched in April 2019

Organic Spicy Avocado Hummus

This is one delicious mashup! It’s made with organic garbanzo beans, Mexican avocados, lime juice, Tahini, a little EVOO and jalapeños. Spread it on a sandwich or dip all your favorite chips in it.

Launched in April 2019

Fudgy Chocolate Quinoa Loaf & Cake Mix

Don’t worry—this cake is made with quinoa flour, so you won’t be getting any crunchy quinoa bits when you take a bite. And that first bite will be memorable, especially with the extra packet of chocolate fudge sauce that’s included. 

Launched in April 2019

Dark Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Like Trader Joe’s iconic dark chocolate peanut butter cups, these are for those almond butter lovers.

Launched in April 2019

Shakshuka Starter

To put it simply, Shakshuka is eggs cooked in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. With this starter kit, all you need is eggs and a microwave to make it. 

Launched in April 2019

Milk Chocolate Caramel Crunch Medallions

These medallions are basically wafers stuffed with gooey caramel, then coated in Belgian milk chocolate and topped with sugared hazelnut bits.

Launched in April 2019

Broccoli & Kale Pizza Crust

This pizza crust is gluten-free and vegan — unlike other vegetable-based crusts on the market, it doesn’t use cheese or eggs to bind the ingredients together. Trader Joe’s recommends adding classic tomato and mozzarella as a topping, or playing on broccoli cheddar soup flavors by topping the crust with TJ’s Mushroom Alfredo Sauce, cheddar cheese and chopped broccoli florets. 

Launched in March 2019

Creamy Chicken and Poblano Ravioli

This meals turns traditional ravioli on its head! The pasta is filled with white meat chicken, poblanos, and four kids of cheese — ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan and Romano — heavy cream and breadcrumbs.

Launched in March 2019

Gochujang Chop Salad Kit

This triple-washed ready-to-go salad kit combines napa cabbage, lettuce, carrots, celery and Korean-style mix-ins like black sesame seeds, puffed brown rice and a sweet and spicy gochujang vinaigrette.

Launched in March 2019

Candy Coated Chocolate Peanuts

Think Peanut M&M’s, but without the unnatural dyes and chemicals. 

Launched in March 2019

Organic Buffalo Style Hummus

This is a dairy-free alternative to buffalo chicken dip that’s smooth and creamy, and perfect for dipping veggies into on game day. 

Launched in March 2019

Organic Bolivia Yanaloma Small Lot Coffee

This coffee boasts a mild acidity with notes of apple, pear and apricot. Like all of TJ’s small lot coffees, it’s also a limited-edition. So, if you see it, grab it!

Launched in March 2019

Outside-In Stuffed Gnocchi

Traditional gnocchi is served with tomato sauce and cheese, but this version packs it all into one flavorful Italian dumpling. 

Launched in March 2019

Vegetable and Soba Noodle Stir Fry Kit

This plant-based stir fry is ready in 10 minutes and makes crunchy veggies and soft and chewy noodles doused in a soy ginger sauce. 

Launched in March 2019

Avocado Tzatziki Dip

This dip combines traditional Greek tzatziki with avocado and a dash of jalapeños. 

Launched in March 2019

Freeze Dried Red Seedless Grapes

Create the flavors of a classic PB&J by pairing them with Trader Joe’s Bamba Peanut Snacks. 

Launched in March 2019

Gluten Free Cocoa Crunch Cereal

This cocoa cereal will turn your milk into chocolate milk, and what’s better than that?

Launched in February 2019

Organic Thick and Chunky Salsa

Dip your chips into this salsa or use it as a topping for fish, chicken, salad and more. 

Launched in February 2019

Amba Mango Sauce

This sauce is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern and Indian dishes. 

According to a Trader Joe’s announcement, "Ripe mangoes and green mangoes are fermented then simmered with garlic, salt, turmeric, paprika, and a host of Indian spices. The finished product has a deep-yellow color with a thick, very smooth texture; the flavor is savory and complex, with some considerable heat."

Try it on kebabs or over vegetables. 

Launched in February 2019

Crunchy Red Drago Fruit Chips 

Enjoy these fruit chips as a healthy snack on their own or throw them over Greek yogurt, an açai bowl or even ice cream. 

Launched in February 2019

Onion + Chive Cream Cheese Spread

Spread this flavorful cream cheese on your favorite bagel or use it as a base for a delicious sandwich. 

Launched in February 2019

French Fromage Slices

This cheese is super creamy and mild (similar to French Brie) and is great on sandwiches, baked into bread (as shown) or used as a burger topping. 

Launched in February 2019

Organic Green Vegetable Foursome

Find this vegetable medley in the frozen aisle! It comes with broccoli florets, shelled peas, trimmed French green beans and zucchini quarters.

Launched in February 2019

Sprouted Wheat Sourdough Bread

A slice of this hearty bread boasts 7 grams of protein and only 90 calories.

Launched in February 2019

Organic Toasted Sesame Dressing

This dressing is slightly-sweet and thick, making it the perfect pairing for not only salads but sandwiches, wraps, slaws, pasta salads and more. 

Launched in February 2019

Ruby Cacao Wafers

Pink chocolate is indeed not just dyed that way — it’s a new type of chocolate entirely! It’s made from the ruby cocoa beans, which give it its natural color and a subtle tangy flavor. 

Launched in February 2019

Mushroom & Company Multipurpose Umami Seasoning Blend

This Japanese-inspired seasoning blend mimics the fifth taste (in addition to salty, sweet, sour and bitter) and is Whole 30 and Paleo diet compliant.

Launched in February 2019

Chili & Lime Flavored Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips

These chips are similar to Takis and come with a little eat, but they aren’t so hot that you’ll need to put the bag down. 

Launched in February 2019

Joe-Joe’s Slims

They’re like regular Joe-Joe’s, but with a thinner cookie and less cream. They’re, well, slim!

Launched in January 2019

Chocolate Chip Pain Au Lait

These brioche-like French rolls are sprinkled with dark chocolate chips and make for a great breakfast, snack or dessert. 

Launched in January 2019

Organic Balsamic and Fig Dressing

This new salad dressing is like your regular balsamic dressing, except Trader Joe’s mixed in real, organic fig paste for a subtle sweet taste.

Launched in January 2019

Cinnamon Croissant Loaf

This is what you’d get if you mixed a croissant with Trader Joe’s Cinnamon Swirl Bread. It’s light, airy and a new breakfast staple. 

Launched in January 2019

Chocolate Covered Wafer Cookie

Inspired by Polish mazurka wafers, this cookie is light, airy and covered in chocolate.

Launched in January 2019

Dark Chocolate Sunflower Seed Butter Cups

Those allergic to peanuts, rejoice! Trader Joe’s new alternative to peanut butter cups is all the salty and sweet you’ve been craving. 

Launched in January 2019

Corn, Pea, Bean & Quinoa Crisps

These are like tortilla chips, sprinkled with pink sea salt and black pepper. 

Launched in January 2019

Organic French Rolls

Pair these light and airy rolls with soup or a hearty stew.

Launched in January 2019

Beer Bread Mix

All you need is beer, butter and this mix to make a hearty loaf of bread. You can top it with cheese and jalapeños or give it your own unique twist! This is a limited-edition, seasonal product so if you see it, get it ASAP.

Launched in January 2019

Organic Earl Grey Tea

This bold black tea is combined with oil from Italian Bergamot oranges to give it a slightly sweeter, spicy taste. 

Launched in January 2019

Organic Rosé Vinaigrette

This new dressing is tangy, light and slightly floral. It’s made with rosé wine vinegar.

Launched in January 2019

Malabari Paratha

This Indian bread is similar to naan, but is made with cow’s and buffalo’s milk instead of yogurt and yeast. It’s dough is rolled into long ropes that are then rolled into spirals (like a cinnamon bun!) and pressed flat. 

Launched in January 2019

Organic Spinach and Riced Cauliflower Salad

This salad kit comes with spinach, riced cauliflower, roasted golden beets, almonds and balsamic vinaigrette dressing. 

Launched in January 2019

Jackfruit Cakes

Jackfruit has a tender, meaty texture, but you can serve these like crab cakes with eggs, salad or just a little bit of lemon and remoulade. 

Launched in January 2019

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The change came after the grocery store received criticism for individually packaging particular produce items—like garlic, onions, potatoes and cucumbers. So, Trader Joe’s launched an initiative to eliminate 1 million pounds of plastic throughout its stores.

While there are certain things—like blueberries and watermelon—that can’t be stored in alternative containers, the company is testing new eco-friendly ways to package these products, including “thinner plastic.”

You won’t see us complaining.

RELATED: Trader Joe’s Has Ruby Chocolate, but Only for a Limited Time

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