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.

When it comes to ingredient transparency and the health quality of Trader Joe's products, it's important to carefully read labels to spot potentially unhealthy ingredients, as not all private label items are as clean as they seem.

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. For example, many Trader Joe's private label offerings feature wheat-based products or use organic wheat flour as a key ingredient in their formulations.

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. The app also helps you navigate ingredient lists at Trader Joe's, making it easier to choose healthier options. 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.)

Understanding Seed Oil Content

When you’re navigating the aisles at Trader Joe’s, it can feel like a treasure hunt with so many delicious snacks, organic treats, and new products to add to your list. But if you’re aiming to go seed oil free, it pays to read those ingredient labels closely. Seed oils like sesame, coconut, and vegetable oil pop up in a lot of Trader Joe’s products, from crunchy snacks to that whole bag of chips you might be tempted to enjoy in one sitting.

The good news? Trader Joe’s has plenty of options for those looking to avoid seed oils. Look for products featuring wholesome ingredients like avocado oil, chia seeds, and organic produce. For example, their chia pudding and egg bites are a great way to start your day without the extra oils. If you’re after a healthy, seed oil-free breakfast, the Grainless granola, packed with chia and coconut, makes a good option that’s both filling and fiber-rich.

Of course, not every product needs to be seed oil free, and that’s okay. Some Trader Joe’s favorites, like their organic corn chips, do contain corn and sugar, but can still be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The key is to know the ingredients, add a variety of products to your cart, and enjoy the process of discovering what works best for you.

Whether you’re after snacks with simple, natural ingredients or looking to avoid certain oils, using an accurate food scanner can make it easy to find something for everyone, at any store. With a little planning and a keen eye on the ingredient list, you can enjoy a lot of great, healthy products, and maybe even find a new favorite along the way. That’s the best way to shop: informed, excited, and ready to enjoy every bite.

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.