If you’ve ever perused the aisles of your local Trader Joe’s, then you know this popular store doesn’t just stock standard groceries that you’d find at your favorite grocery store. Instead, you’ll find out-of-the-box treats and goods like Everything Bagel Crackers or Kale Pesto Sauce. But this is what adds to its charm. You know you can walk in and discover something new that you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy.

It’s true that Trader Joe’s isn’t your everyday grocery store, but what’s behind the brand? In this article, we dive into 8 unusual facts about Trader Joe’s that you may have not even known — yes, even if you’re a super fan. For instance, what do all the different ringing bells mean, or how do they keep many of their items so inexpensive? Read on to find out more idiosyncrasies behind this famous brand.

Hidden Stuffed Animals

If you’ve ever seen a random stuffed animal in peculiar places around the store, you’re not alone. Not all, but many Trader Joe’s locations participate in a treasure hunt-like game for kids. If your little one locates one of these hidden toys, they get a prize.

Try Anything Policy

Unlike most stores, Trader Joe’s will let you try just about anything before you buy it, including salads, salami, cheese, and ready-to-eat items. Of course, this perk is within reason, so don’t expect a crew member to cook you up a pizza to try, but if you’ve been dying to taste those Truffle Chips, simply ask a crew member. Again, not all locations may participate in this, so it’s important to find out first.

Always Affordable Prices

You’ve probably noticed that Trader Joe’s steers away from offering coupons, discounts, or special promotions. That’s because the products are already quite affordable. But what’s the reason for this? It’s simple: they cut out the middleman and buy directly from suppliers to ensure their customers are getting a fair and reasonable price for their goods. So, don’t expect a sale anytime soon.

Ringing Bells

Picture this: You’re strolling through the aisles of your local TJ’s, and you hear a bell ring three times. You’ve heard it multiple times before, maybe with two rings or even one, but you never really knew what that meant. You can probably ask a crew member, but we’ll save you the time. The bell acts as a way to communicate with other crew members; a kind of morse code, if you will. One ring their crew knows when to open another register, two rings mean a question needs to be answered at the checkout, and three rings call over a manager. 

Discontinuing Products

Have you ever gone to Trader Joe’s to stock up on your favorite product, only to find out it’s been discontinued or not available for the foreseeable future? This is no coincidence. There are actually different factors that go into these decisions. For one, it may be a seasonal product (think Brussels Sprouts Stalks, Key Lime Tea Cookies, etc). Another reason is that the cost of producing the item may increase, which means the price can’t be justified for selling it in-store. And finally, because of the lack of space, if an item isn’t selling strongly enough, it may be discontinued to save room for more popular items.

Refund Policy

Trader Joe’s prides itself in having a very flexible return policy; meaning, you can ask for a refund for just about anything. Bought a bad piece of fruit? Return it. Didn’t like the taste of a new dip? Ask for a refund. Simply mention that you didn’t enjoy a certain product, and you’ll get a refund.

Giving Back to the Community

Many may not be aware of this, but Trader Joe’s is an extremely charitable company. This has been something that’s been incredibly important since the store’s inception. For example, the company participates in Feeding America and has donated millions of pounds of food to the organization. And that’s just scratching the surface.

Best Shopping Days

Crew members at Trader Joe’s typically restock perishables overnight and early morning each day. And if a product is running low, they will even restock during shopping hours. With that said, you can always expect to find fresh produce and other items on the shelf. But there are certain days better than others. Experienced shoppers and managers, recommend coming on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday if you don’t want to miss out on your favorite products, as weekends are typically busier and some items may be out of stock.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Cliff Hawkins for Getty/ via Getty Images.

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With every flip of the calendar month, Trader Joe’s fans look for the month’s newest arrivals. There’s a lot of seasonal splendor popping up on store shelves, and plenty of enticing new products to keep an eye out for. Here are 10 new items at Trader Joe’s this month that are absolutely flying off shelves!

Sliced Basil & Garlic Monterey Jack Cheese

If you’re a fan of a smooth Monterey Jack cheese but want it kicked up a notch with some seasonal flair, this is the cheese for you. Hints of basil and garlic infuse a decidedly Italian vibe into this cheese, though it’s incredibly versatile. Find it for $4.99 per 7.5oz package.

Sourdough Rye Chips

If you like pre-packaged bags of party mix, but always find yourself favoring the rye crisps over the pretzels and mini-breadsticks, this is the snack for you. Fried in sunflower oil for the perfect crunch, these chips are great for dips or as a vehicle to get some tasty toppers into your mouth. Find them for $3.29 per 4.6oz bag.

Oven Dried Red & Yellow Bell Pepper Crisps

When you’re craving a savory snack but trying to watch the calories that chips can bring, this new item at Trader Joe’s may be just the snack you’re seeking. Made with only three ingredients (red peppers, yellow peppers and sea salt), these crisps are oven-dried and provide the perfect salty treat on their own or dipped in a TJs dip. Find them for $1.99 per bag.

Surf’s Pup Dog Treats

For a wholesome snack for your puppers, this new item delivers. The Surf’s Pup Dog Treats feature four fun shapes in keeping with the TJ’s surf theme. Choose from the Hawaiian shirt, flip-flop, hibiscus blossom and shortboard. Made from pork, sweet potato and ground coconut, these treats will become your pet’s new favorite. Find them for $3.49 per box.

Organic Tart Cherry Fruit Spread

Whether you’re looking for a tart toast topper or something sweet to pair with some peanut butter on your sandwich, this fruit spread is the perfect addition. Made with Turkish sour cherries, the spread is also incredibly versatile. Find it for $4.29 per jar.

Passionfruit Granola

For a sweet start to your day, grab a bag of this granola. The sweetness of passionfruit with dried raspberries makes this an amazing cereal on its own or the perfect way to take plain yogurt to the next level. Find it for $3.99 per 12oz bag.

Strawberry Yogurt-Coated Almonds

If you’re looking for the perfect mid-day pick-me-up, these crunchy almonds drenched in a strawberry yogurt coating are ideal for snacking. Finished with a delicate dusting of strawberry powder, they’re not too sweet. Enjoy them on their own or as part of a trail mix or parfait. Find them for $3.99.

Sparkling Guava Juice

If flavored sparkling water tastes a little flat, grab a four-pack of this Sparkling Guava Juice from TJ’s. This bubbly beverage boasts just the right amount of sweetness and can stand on its own or act as the perfect mixer for your summer adult beverage. Find it for $3.99.

Coconut Chickpea Curry

Trader Joe’s is known for having a vast array of international food options, and now there’s one more than there used to be. Wait for a quick one-minute nuke in the microwave, and you can enjoy a creamy, hearty coconut curry. Pour it over a bed of basmati rice for a more robust meal. Find it for $2.49.

Chickpea Fusilli

When it comes to pasta, there’s always room for healthy improvement, and this Chickpea Fusilli pasta provides just that. Packed with protein and fiber, this pasta is constructed with chickpeas and tapioca flour, making it completely gluten-free. Boil it up for a hot pasta dish or a cold pasta salad perfect for summer. Find it for $2.99.

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MomsWhoThink / Ashley Haugen.

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Any dedicated Trader Joe’s shopper knows that when you find a product you love, you stick with it. You also share it with friends and get them hooked as well. And while everyone has Everything But the Bagel seasoning on their repeat purchase list, there are some items you may have never tried simply because you like what you like and now you’re in a rut.

We decided to go to the pros who know Joe’s better than anyone else: store employees. We asked them to give us their favorite items in the store — both seasonal and long-term selections. Some we’d heard of and tried, others had never caught our eye. So here you go — 10 items Trader Joe’s employees recommend above all others. We bet you haven’t tried a few…

Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream

This tasty treat is quite discreet, tucked neatly in the freezer with its non-descript packaging. However, the TJs employee who shared this item swears it’s perfect day or night, whether celebrating or sympathizing. Featuring the Speculoos Belgian cookie, this ice cream has a cult following. Who knew? Grab a quart for $4.99.

Cuban-Style Citrusy Garlic Seasoning Blend

Gary, a TJs manager, divulged that the Citrusy Garlic Seasoning is a sleeper hit he swears is amazing on everything from meats and veggies to French fries. He convinced us, so we bought a bottle and used it on some shrimp and WOW! Tangy, savory and now OUR new go-to seasoning, too! Grab a 2.25-oz bottle for $2.29.

Spring Gummies

The Trader Joe’s employee who selected this treat started by saying, “Gummies. ANY of our gummies are the best.” So whether you’re a dedicated Scandinavian Swimmers fan or you’re looking for a new gummy to add to your palate’s portfolio, the Spring Gummies worthy of a try. They’re soft, chewy and won’t get stuck in your teeth. Plus, they come in a variety of spring-y flavors and shapes. Grab a 14-oz bag for $3.49.

Turkey Club Wrap

To quote the employee who divulged her favorite selection, “The Turkey Club Sandwich is … chef’s kiss!” Located in the grab-and-go section, this convenient wrap features turkey breast, bacon, lettuce and sundried tomatoes. Can’t go wrong there. Grab it for $5.49, and lunch is covered.

Ghost Pepper Potato Chips

If you like your salty snacks with a side of heat, this selection is the way to go. These kettle chips feature a sturdy lattice cut, perfect for scooping up a whopping serving of creamy dip … perfect to tone down the heat. Grab a 7-oz bag for $3.49.

Chili Onion Crunch

In keeping with the heat theme, this 6-oz jar carries a serious punch. Dried garlic and peppers are soaked in olive oil and provide the perfect accessory for any dish that needs a little oomph. Find it for $4.49 a jar.

Elote Corn Chip Dippers

Back in the chip aisle, true Trader Joe’s fans know how addictive the Corn Chip Dippers are. Well, make room on your pantry shelves for the companion snack: the Elote Corn Chip Dippers. Reminiscent of traditional street corn flavoring, these chips are incredibly delicious on their own but even better when dunked in a big bowl of dip. Grab a bag for $2.69.

Buffalo-Style Chicken Dip

The TJs mate who shared this selection says he could enjoy this while watching TV, but it’s also a no-fail for any party he’s attending to which he needs to bring an appetizer. Grab some fresh veggies or a bag of Corn Chip Dippers to go with it. Find a 12-oz tub for $4.99.

Agua de Kefir

Lest we leave out something to quench your thirst, this item was recommended by more than one employee we spoke with. The Agua de Kefir is an incredibly refreshing and light beverage that’s as tasty as it is good for you. Packed with probiotics and electrolytes but low on sugar, this beverage is pricy but worth every dime. Get a 16-oz bottle for $3.99. And don’t forget to recycle it!

The image featured at the top of this post is ©Ashley Haugen .

The post Trader Joe’s Employees Share Their Favorite Store Items (Some May Surprise You!) appeared first on Moms Who Think.

We've all seen the memes … the moment the calendar flips from September to October, the world is overcome with pumpkin spice fever. Indeed, pumpkin is the official flavor of fall … or so it seems. If you're looking for a flavorful way to get your pumpkin on, then we recommend picking up a box of Trader Joe's pumpkin bread mix. Requiring just four ingredients, it's a total winner in our book so much so that we keep several boxes on hand throughout the year when we just need a quick pumpkin fix!

Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread Ingredients

When it comes to whipping up a batch of this bread (or muffins if you prefer), all you need is the mix (obviously), two eggs, a half-cup of vegetable oil and a cup of water. We're willing to bet you have all of that on-hand — or at least everything but the mix at this point.

Speaking of the mix, the ingredients in the mix itself include just a handful of ingredients. It is worth noting, though, that those with gluten, soy, or dairy intolerances or allergies should likely opt out as the warning on the box indicates there may be even trace amounts.

How to Make It

This mix gets a 10/10 on a scale of 1 to easy. You literally mix up all four ingredients, folding the dry mix into the wet, and then pour it into your bread pan. Pop it in the oven for 55-60 minutes at 350 degrees F, and soon you'll be smelling the heavenly pumpkin wafts throughout your home.

Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread Nutritional Info

One box of Trader Joe's pumpkin bread mix contains 16 servings, and a serving is one 1/2-inch slice. Once serving size yields 190 calories and 26g of carbohydrates. While there is little in the way of nutritional value other than the scant 6 percent of your daily iron needs, the emotional boost you'll get from this tasty treat helps offset what is lacking in vitamins.

Potential Modifications

If you like to think outside the ingredient box, here are some potential add-ins and modifications for Trader Joe's pumpkin bread.

• Chocolate chips
• Dried cranberries
• Pecan bits
• Shredded coconut
• Peanut butter chips

The image featured at the top of this post is ©MomsWhoThink / Ashley Haugen.

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