Trader Joe’s is a favorite grocery store for its rotating product roster, including a number of sustainable staples. But which Trader Joe’s products are best for the planet?
Trader Joe’s is a popular grocery store chain that has gained a reputation for offering affordable and unique food products. For shoppers concerned about sustainability, finding products that meet eco criteria can be a challenge. However, there are a number of sustainable and vegan food products available at Trader Joe’s that are both delicious and environmentally friendly.
The cult of Trader Joe’s
According to a recent survey by Consumer Reports, Trader Joe’s was ranked as the top supermarket chain in the United States for the fifth consecutive year.
One of the main reasons people love Trader Joe’s is its unique product offerings. The store is known for its private-label products, which are often sourced from small, independent suppliers. These products are often unique and offer a wide variety of options for customers looking to try something new. As Lindsay Davis, former food industry analyst at CB Insights, explained to CNBC in 2021. “Trader Joe’s has done an excellent job of creating a ‘treasure hunt’ shopping experience with its ever-changing assortment of products, and consumers love it.”
In addition to its product offerings, people love Trader Joe’s for its customer service. The store is known for its friendly and helpful staff, who are often willing to go above and beyond to assist customers. “They have a well-trained staff that’s very friendly and knowledgeable, and that makes for a great shopping experience,” David J. Livingston, a supermarket industry analyst, told USA Today.
But perhaps the most significant reason people love the chain is its affordability. While some specialty food stores can be expensive, Trader Joe’s offers a wide range of products at extremely competitive prices. As a result, many customers are able to try new foods and experiment with new recipes without breaking the bank.
“Trader Joe’s has done an excellent job of creating a unique shopping experience that keeps customers coming back for more,” Livingston said.
So, how many Trader Joe’s stores are there? As of 2021, there are over 500 Trader Joe’s stores located in 42 states across the U.S. The company has plans to continue expanding its reach, with several new stores set to open in the coming years.
Sustainable Trader Joe’s products
Shopping at Trader Joe’s is nothing short of fun, but is it sustainable? That all depends on what you buy. By choosing organic and sustainably produced foods, we can support sustainable farming practices and reduce the environmental impact of food production.
Additionally, opting for vegan alternatives to meat, dairy, and eggs can help reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture and support sustainable food production. Trader Joe’s offers a number of sustainable and vegan food products to add to your cart.
1. Organic tofu
Tofu is a versatile and popular ingredient, and Trader Joe’s offers a wide range of tofu products. Its organic tofu is made from non-GMO soybeans and is certified organic, meaning it is produced without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or genetically modified organisms. Buying organic tofu helps support sustainable farming practices and reduces the environmental impact of food production.
2. Organic brown rice
Brown rice is a staple in many diets, and buying organic brown rice at Trader Joe’s can be a sustainable choice. Organic farming methods avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can harm the environment and contribute to climate change.
3. Vegan chocolate
For those with a sweet tooth, Trader Joe’s offers vegan chocolate bars and chips that are both delicious and sustainably produced. These chocolate products are made from Rainforest Alliance-certified cocoa, which means they are sourced from farms that meet rigorous environmental and social standards. The Rainforest Alliance works to protect forests, conserve biodiversity, and promote sustainable livelihoods for farmers and communities.
4. Organic lentils
Lentils are a cheap, versatile, and sustainable source of protein and fiber. Because lentils cook so quickly, you can buy them in bulk bags, rather than by the can or carton. Like other organic products, organic lentils are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, which reduces the environmental impact of agriculture.
5. Chickenless crispy tenders
For those who crave the taste and texture of chicken, Trader Joe’s offers vegan chickenless crispy tenders that are made from soy protein. While processed foods are not always the most sustainable choice, opting for a vegan alternative to meat can help reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture. According to the Worldwatch Institute, animal agriculture is responsible for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to deforestation, water pollution, and other environmental problems.
5. Vegan caesar dressing
Salad dressings can be a hidden source of unsustainable animal products, but Trader Joe’s offers a vegan Caesar dressing that is both delicious and sustainable. This dressing is made with soy milk and vegan Worcestershire sauce and is free from dairy and eggs. Opting for a vegan dressing can reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture and support sustainable food production.
6. Organic avocado
Avocado has become a popular ingredient in a range of meals, and buying organic avocado at Trader Joe’s can be a healthy choice. But avocados can have a high environmental footprint because of its water use, growing process, and shipping footprint. But avocados have a far lower environmental impact than animal products — and you can sub them for eggs and dairy in a number of recipes.
7. Meatless meatballs
Trader Joe’s offers a vegan alternative to meatballs that are made from soy protein and are a great addition to pasta dishes or as a sandwich filling. Opting for a vegan alternative to meat can help reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture and support sustainable food production.
8. Organic riced cauliflower
Riced cauliflower has become a popular alternative to rice and pasta in many vegan dishes, and buying organic riced cauliflower at Trader Joe’s can support sustainable farming practices. Using up “ugly” vegetables for dishes like cauliflower rice can also reduce food waste and help increase profits for farmers.
9. Vegan cashew fiesta dip
Dips are a great addition to any party or gathering, and Trader Joe’s offers a vegan cashew fiesta dip that is sustainably delicious. This dip is made with cashews instead of dairy, and is entirely free from animal products, making it an excellent vegan choice as well as a sustainable one.
10. Organic baby spinach
Rich in iron and other nutrients, spinach is a healthy staple. Supporting organic farming is supporting sustainable farming, too. Organic spinach is an essential Trader Joe’s product for every cart.
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