Trader Joe's? More Like Seed Oil Joe's.

Just kidding… but also not really. 

We’re (un)officially crowning Trader Joe’s as “Seed Oil Joe’s,” because a whopping 43% of their products contain seed oils - about 9% more than your average grocery store.  

With the national average hovering around 34% for US packaged foods, you’d think TJ’s — the cool, health-conscious, avocado-loving grocery store we all adore — would be leading the way toward better ingredients. But here we are. 

Why, Joe? Why?

Since about 80% of Trader Joe’s products are private label, they have complete control of what ingredients are in their products, which includes the inexpensive alternatives to healthier pressed oils or fats. 

Should you care?  

That's totally up to you.

But if you do, the WISEcode™ app makes it ridiculously easy to spot seed oils with a quick scan of your phone. Plus, recent studies suggest it's worth paying attention — overdoing it on seed oils might increase your risk for breast cancer, colon cancer, chronic inflammation, and even mess with your gut microbiome. (Yikes.) 

Joe, We Love You. But We See You.

Trader Joe’s website says their mission is to “offer the best quality products”. You built a fandom with your brand based on healthy, delicious, and affordable choices – and we’re still fans! But when the ingredients don't match the mission, someone’s gotta say something. 

Enter: WISEcode™. We’re here to have your back — and keep your favorite brands honest — so you can shop with your eyes wide open, not crossed with tiny print and tricky labels.

Give it a download, scan your favorite Trader Joe’s item, and see for yourself.