What’s Going On With All The Trader Joe’s Recalls?

trader joe's unexpected broccoli cheddar soup is just one of five recalls in the past month

There’s been a (for lack of a better word) concerning uptick in food recalls from our favorite grocery store, Trader Joe’s. The retailer has taken action on *five* different products in the past month alone for potential contamination from metal, bugs, and *gasp* rocks! Like us, you’re likely wondering, how the hell do metals, bugs, and rocks work their way into the best TJ’s snacks? Here’s the tea on what’s happening – and make sure to note the active recalls below.

Why do food recalls happen?

Two main government agencies are responsible for overseeing food safety in the U.S. While the Food Safety and Inspection Service (or FSIS) monitors meat and egg products, the Food and Drug Administration (or FDA) has oversight on… basically everything else. But, as Keren Landman writes for Vox, due to infrequent inspections, the agencies aren’t as close to the production process as producers or consumers are. This means it’s more likely that the latter notice food safety issues slipping through the cracks before any officials do.

Why are there so many recalls at Trader Joe's?

Photo by Meredith Holser

Trader Joe’s sources their products from smaller, more boutique vendors across the globe – but this can come with tradeoffs in regards to food safety. The smaller vendors may not have heavily-detailed production guidelines like larger companies do, which can cause a blip in safe-to-eat foods. The FSIS or FDA likely don’t have a close eye on what exactly TJ’s producers are doing, either, furthering the disconnect with safe production processes. It could *also* be possible that TJ’s follows less-strict vendor certification processes for the sake of getting their unique snacks on shelves. Whatever the case, they sure do bring shoppers an experience like no other. But, like Landman writes, with more complexity comes more risk.

Do I have to worry about Trader Joe's recalls?

Trader Joe’s has made a point that all potentially affected products have been removed from sale and destroyed. But, if you purchased or received donations of the recalled products – obviously do not eat them. Simply throw them away or return them to TJ’s for a full refund. No rocks for me (or you), please!

What Trader Joe's food was recalled?

Images via Trader Joe's

  1. Multigrain Crackers with Sunflower and Flax Seeds: boxes with “Best If Used By” dates between 03/01/24 and 03/05/24 may contain metal.
  2. Almond Windmill Cookies: boxes with “Sell-By” dates between 10/19/23 and 10/21/23 may contain rocks.
  3. Dark Chocolate Chunk Almond Cookies: boxes with “Sell-By” dates between 10/17/23 and 10/21/23 may contain rocks.
  4. Unexpected Broccoli Cheddar Soup: soups with “Use By dates” between 07/18/23 and 09/15/23 may contain insects.
  5. Fully Cooked Falafel Heat & Eat: these frozen falafel balls sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, Nebraska, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Washington D.C. may contain rocks.

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Lead image via Trader Joe's.

Get excited, because Trader Joe’s just brought back a seasonal flavor of one of their most beloved frozen desserts. Mini-sized and perfect for mid-day – or, let’s be real – midnight snacking, the Hold The Cone ice cream has gracefully returnedwith the taste of none other than coffee! Yum. TJ’s fans are already running to their nearest stores to grab a box (or two!), so you're definitely going to want to grab this limited-time item before it runs out.

Scroll on to discover more about the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones from Trader Joe’s.

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones category includes classics like strawberry, chocolate, and chocolate chip, but a newcomer just joined the lineup: coffee bean! The cones are truly a cult-favorite item amongst shoppers, including myself!

Trader Joe's

According to Trader Joe’s, the Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones feature mini chocolate sugar cones lined with a “chocolatey” coating that are then packed with a rich and “strongly flavored” coffee bean ice cream.

Trader Joe's

Chocolate and coffee is a truly stunning food combo, so coffee and dessert lovers will adore this new iteration. Additionally, their small size makes them absolutely irresistible for snacking sessions – I could honestly eat the whole box in one sitting.

@traderjoesobsessed

TJ’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the returning find with their Instagram followers, and it was an instant hit among those who know and love ‘em, and people who have never tried the cones before.

“Yassss my favorite flavor!!!” one person commented.

“I will be buying two boxes tomorrow,” another declared.

“I don’t understand why this is a seasonal flavor!” someone else pointed out.

Reddit

One box of the Trader Joe’s Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones is just $4, and that guarantees you 8 mini-sized ice cream cones to share – or keep all to yourself.

You can find this new drop in between TJ’s freezer aisles next to so many more sweet finds like the Blood Orange Mochi and the Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream. I’m craving ice cream already!

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Summer rom-coms are so back! A24 confirmed on March 4 that Celine Song's Materialists, starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, is coming to theaters this June and I cannot contain my excitement. The new movie follows a matchmaker (Dakota) who finds herself torn between two romantic prospects. If that's too dramatic for you, girl, I'd be happy to take your place.

Here's the latest update on Materialists starring Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal.

Watch the 'Materialists' trailer now.

I watched the Materialists trailer four times before writing this because I just couldn't stop soaking it in — and I didn't want to miss a single detail. Of course, we get the story of Lucy (Dakota Johnson) a matchmaker, who finds herself torn between the perfect man (Pedro Pascal) and her ex (Chris Evans), who's still dreaming of "wrinkles and children that look like you," a line that will be playing in my head on REPEAT because OH MY GOSH.

But just like director Celine Song's acclaimed Past Lives, every single detail of the movie translates the emotion in the story. Dakota Johnson has an effervescent grace and masters the screen every time we see her, while Pedro and Chris don't even have to open their mouths to break my heart; their eyes say it all. The color grade and film quality are soft and romantic, which totally matches the delicate situation this trio finds themselves in; both men fall for Lucy and it looks like our matchmaker has to figure out how to avoid breaking anyone's heart — including her own. "Delicate" by Taylor Swift, anyone?

But overall, the movie teases that sometimes, there are no bad decisions, just really hard ones. And if I got all that from the Materialists trailer, I can't wait to see the full movie...even if it's going to be totally devastating. And I have a feeling I'm going to be seeing it more than once.

Is Materialists out yet?

Materialists will premiere in theaters June 13, 2025. After Past Lives became THE summer movie in 2023 (and absolutely wrecked my roommates), I know Materialists is going to be the perfect June watch.

What is the plot of Materialists?

The movie follows Dakota Johnson's character, a matchmaker in New York City who falls for the perfect man, but can't seem to let go of her ex. Given the fact the first poster for the movie includes "save the date" and looks like a wedding cake, I'm wondering if we'll see all three characters cross paths at a wedding...

What has the cast said about the movie?

When I asked Dakota Johnson about working with Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans, she teased how much she enjoyed working with them. "They're both big idiots and I love them," she told Brit + Co exclusively at her Daddio premiere.

Where was Materialists filmed?

Materialists was filmed around New York City, which means the movie's going to have so much life and energy in every single shot. Plus Dakota's sundresses are totally giving Brooklyn gal — and I'm dreaming of prancing around the city in a dress as soon as the weather warms up!

Are you as excited for Materialists as I am? Let us know your favorite rom-coms in the comments and check out the latest news on Madelyn Cline's new romance movie for more!

Trader Joe’s carries much more than groceries – from skincare goodies to alcohol, you can find some pretty neat stuff between their aisles. You’re going to want to make a beeline to their home goods section ASAP though, because TJ’s just dropped a delightful $4 tomato-scented candle that’s being compared to bougie brands like Loewe and Maison Margiela!

Scroll on to discover more about Trader Joe’s new Tomato Leaf candle.

@traderjoesobsessed

On shelves now, Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle smells like – you guessed it – fragrant tomato leaves. Some shoppers have said it comes across as “verdant and fresh” while others say it’s “slightly sweeter.” So far, the aroma has been divisive among TJ’s fans, but smelling it myself, I think it smells exactly like tomato leaves with a hint of refreshing sweetness – making it a perfect scent to ease you into springtime!

Julia Nagy / PEXELS

This iteration of the Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is technically a remake of the same scent they released several years ago, but stopped stocking because the glass jars it was cased in posed a safety hazard (ahem, exploding). But fret not – this new container is made of metal, so you shouldn’t expect any glass malfunctions. Plus, it boasts the same precise scent – nothing’s changed in that department!

Reddit

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the new find with their Instagram followers, and plenty of customers sounded off with excitement.

“Omg yes this is the best one!!!!” one person said.

“This is their greatest candle to date imo,” another person wrote.

“I was actually talking about this a couple days ago with my boyfriend and then magically it appeared!!” someone else commented. “Glad it’s in a tin option even though the glass was beautiful!”

Agence Mald / PEXELS

The Trader Joe’s Reddit page also had some thoughts about the new scent:

“I love this friggin candle,” one person said. “It really took me by surprise.”

“I’m so excited!!” another rejoiced. “This is my all time favorite candle scent of any line ever!”

While some Trader Joe’s shoppers praised it, others had some strong opinions.

“Soapy with a hint of tomato,” someone else noted. “I personally really like it, but I like green, fresher-smelling candles. I hate bakery or sweet candle scents.”

“I love this candle and everyone I know hates it and I’m not allowed to light it when I have my friends over 😆😆,” another said. “It’s SO divisive!!”

Maison Margiela

Across both Instagram and Reddit, several shoppers compared the new Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle to brands that are so bougie. Some comparisons that were made include the Loewe Tomato Leaves candle, Maison Margiela's From The Garden perfume, and the Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle from Flamingo Estate. The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle costs just $4 for 5.3 ounces worth of candle, so you could absolutely get a similar luxe effect for way less.

Flamingo Estate

The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is crafted from a blend of soy wax, coconut oil, and beeswax. It also comes complete with a lead-free cotton wick to ensure a clean burn. Totally fresh and definitely unique, I’d say it’s worth the money – especially for a fresh feel during spring!

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Alright, let's get grounded, loves! ✨ This week's tarot reading kicks off by tuning us back into Mother Earth, especially with those seasonal vibes in full swing. Think of it: as the world around us shifts, so are we, darlings! It's all about recognizing that deep-rooted connection – we're part of this planet, after all, and underestimating that link is a no-go. The big takeaway? Change is coming, whether you're waving hello or hiding under the covers. But trust us, leaning into it is where the magic happens and things flow so much easier. We're talking subtle "micro tweaks" in your everyday, prompting a little soul-searching about what this new season means for you. What are you ready to switch up? What's staying? Just remember, it's a gradual glow-up, not an overnight makeover. Tapping into that holistic connection with the Earth? That's your secret sauce for ease, purpose, and all-around good vibes. It's all about feeling connected, finding your purpose, soaking up the joy, and bringing it all together. You've got this — so let's get into your tarot reading!

Scroll to see your weekly tarot reading for March 17-23!

Page of Cups:

Okay, first up in our cosmic download is the dreamy Page of Cups! This card is all about tapping into your inner confidence and those sweet, sweet feelings. Think of it as your permission slip to chase what your heart desires – as long as you're not stepping on anyone's toes (including your own!), and honestly, who cares what anyone else thinks? The adorable fish in the cup? That's the universe dropping unexpected opportunities right in your lap when you're just being your authentic self and following your joy. Yes, effort and intention are still part of the equation, but aligning with what lights you up can seriously unlock some magical joy, abundance, freedom, and peace vibes. This week, let's make it a mission to pump up that passion and confidence within ourselves so we're living a life that truly feels like us.

The Moon:

The next card is the mystical Moon! This one's all about those shifting phases, telling us that the change we've been craving? It's practically here this week! But heads up, babes, it's gonna require a healthy dose of self-trust and building up that inner confidence to actually create and welcome it. The Moon also shines a light on that little flutter of fear that can pop up with the unknown – totally normal! But the cosmos is reminding us that change is already happening all around, just like the moon's cycles and the Earth's seasons. To really ride this wave, we gotta get cozy with being uncomfortable. Remember that power mantra: "nothing changes if nothing changes"? It's your reminder that you've got the power to shape your own path, and that means embracing the new. The reading also nudges us to get super clear on who we are and what we truly want, because floating around without direction? Not the vibe. Implementing changes, whether they're big leaps or tiny tweaks, that align with our most confident and brave selves – guided by those amazing feelings, that spark of excitement, pure joy, and that inner soul voice? That's the secret sauce for unlocking some serious ease.

The Hanged Man:

Okay, last but definitely not least in our reading is the intriguing Hanged Man! Now, this card is all about that "in-between" space – you know, that transitional period where you might feel a little paused or even stuck, even though things are moving behind the scenes. But don't fret, darling! This card is actually encouraging you to embrace that pause, like a cosmic red light giving you a chance to check your internal GPS before hitting the gas again. Think of it as a moment for contentment, practicing patience, and even a chance to tweak your direction if needed. The Hanged Man is your gentle reminder that big changes take time, so don't stress if you're not seeing instant results. This phase is all about trusting the universe's timing and understanding that you're in a transition, moving from point A to point B. So, even if it feels a little slow, know that momentum is building! Use this time to your advantage – optimize, check in with your soul self, and follow those little breadcrumbs of joy, excitement, and curiosity. You're exactly where you need to be right now!

Watch Your Full Weekly Tarot Reading Here!

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Come back next week for another reading! Until next time! ✨

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The best romance books know how to transport us to worlds where unexpected love and second chances exist. They also find a way to make "cheesy" meet-cutes and dialogue feel like the adult version of our favorite Disney stories. Think Cinderella meets Bridget Jones' Diary.

We already know it's a given that BookTok creators are always looking for their next fix in this genre, so we've got 15 new reads they'll be ready to devour. The plus side of this is that you get first dibs on the picks you think your bookshelf's eager to make space for!

Scroll for the best new romance books that are poised to become instant favorites!

Amazon

Wild and Wrangled by Lyla Sage (April 15, 2025)

Camille Ashwood's a planner who thought getting married would solve the problems she's faced in Meadowlark, Wyoming. But she faces heartbreak on the day of her wedding and it leaves her stranded. Desperate to find somewhere to stay, the only prospect she finds is an idyllic home that comes with the last person she wants to see.
The neighbor she'll be living next to is none other than Dusty Tucker, a former flame she's rather not cross paths with. All she can think about is how he broke her heart, but Dusty's determined to prove he's changed.
Somewhere along the lines, familiar feelings begin to show which leaves these two lovebirds with two choices: confront their pasts or walk away from each other for good.

Amazon

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)

The only thing Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson have in common are being handpicked by the elusive Margaret Ives for a special project. The ultimate prize is securing the right to pen a biography that's sure to be on everyone's lips. Alice can't ignore how unsteady Hayden's gaze makes her, but she's convinced she has more to lose than he does. Also, Margaret isn't telling her story in order so it leaves both writers confused about how to best proceed with their work.
By the end of it, someone will have possible fallen in love or lost out on an opportunity of a lifetime.

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Despite Ofosua Addo and Cole Drake's spicy meet-cute, they're romance is all but forbidden for two reasons. One, Ofosua's an heiress whose burdened by tradition and she's supposed to be getting married to someone else. But all of this changes when the lavish wedding meant for her becomes an absolute nightmare.
Between her broken heart and soul-searching, Ofosua and Cole collide once again. Only this time, things are different which may or may not come with a lack of support that could threaten to destroy everything they feel.

Amazon

The Last Sunrise by Anna Todd (May 6, 2025)

Oria Pera's world is shaken in the best way when she and her mom have to temporarily relocate to Majorca for the summer. For her, it's the start of something promising even as she dealings with the health that's kept her under her mother's watchful eyes.

Against her mother's wishes, she ventures to the beach and becomes acquainted with one of the sexiest men she's ever met. Julián has a way of reminding Ry of everything she doesn't know, but that doesn't stop her for falling for him.

Somewhere along the lines, Ry will discover what it means to truly live for the first time in life.

Amazon

Can't Get Enough by Kennedy Ryan (May 13, 2025)

Hendrix Barry is the "rich auntie" Gen Z talks about online. She's a successful entrepreneur who has the love of her friends and family. Plus, she's enjoying a kid-free existence. But she still has problems that involve being a caretaker for one of her parents. This leaves no room for frivolous love as far as she's concerned.

But tech mogul Maverick Bell's making her second-guess her rules because he's sexy and has "do not pass go" written all over him. He's precisely the man that makes Hendrix swoon and it's every reason she feels she should stay away from him...except he doesn't want to leave her alone.

Amazon

What Will People Think by Sara Hamdan (May 20, 2025)

Mia Almas splits her time between working in the media and telling jokes at clubs in NYC. She's afraid to live life on her terms, but she knows how she feels when she's on stage. When she and her boss' love affair heats up, so does Mia's jokes that shine a glaring spotlight on what she's been doing.
Afraid of what her Palestinian-American family will think, Mia works overtime to "fix" things. However, this opens the door to a hidden truth her family's been trying to keep buried.

Amazon

It's a Love Story by Annabel Monaghan (May 27, 2025)

Jane Jackson's gone from the awkward teen on everyone's most-watched TV series to setting her sights on becoming one of Hollywood's well-respected executives. With her faux bravado intact, her potential idea catches the attention of the right people. But the catch is she'll have to talk to Jack Quinlan after making a huge promise about securing him for her movie. Never mind the fact she's lost contact with him.

Between cinematograper Dan Finnegan's taunting and the impending doom she's feeling about reaching out to Jack, Jane may find love for someone unexpected is housed under her nerves.

Amazon

Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady (June 3, 2025)

Josie Klein and Ryan Lawson both manage bookstores, but they've never had a reason to have a conversation. This suddenly changes when a new owner acquires both locations and decides on a merger deal that brings their opposing book worlds together. The catch is that only one of them will be allowed to stay based on their performance.
Josie and Ryan immediately clash on everything except the burning passion simmering between them. Turning to a chat room, they find comfort in anonymous people and it's hilarious they're unaware they're confiding in each other.
In the midst of a clear divide offline, Josie and Ryan will find love "in a hopeless place."

Amazon

Writing Mr. Rightby Alina Khawaja (June 10, 2025)

Ziya Khan knows she doesn't want to be a secretary for the rest of her life, so she burns the midnight oil to create the universes she dreams about. Unfortunately, one too many passive-aggressive letters passing on her writing causes her to give up.

The result of this is a sexy man named Aashiq who seeks to help her take control of her life and pick up her pen again. It's all fun and games until Ziya starts falling in love while realizing Aashiq's fading into obscurity the more things start going her way.

Can she somehow keep both her creative streak and the man who's seemingly materialized out of thin air?

Amazon

Love, Coffee & Revolution by Stefanie Leder (June 10, 2025)

Dee Blum's a senior in college, but she doesn't feel enthusiastic about her future. All she wants to do is leave her current path behind and is surprised when she secures a role putting together eco-tours in Costa Rica. Promptly abandoning her studies, she eagerly starts her activist journey.
But she begins to experience fear when she realizes she's never experienced life like this or held the attention of two sexy men. Adrián provides a dash of adventure, but doesn't align with her politically. On the other hand, Matías has travelled the world and is able to hold her interests in more ways than one.
Then there's the work Dee is doing. In a heartbreaking reveal, she learns exploitation is taking place and puts her life on the line to uncover how far-reaching it is. Between this and romance, she's being pulled in different directions that will have lasting effects no matter what happens.

Amazon

Work Nights by Erica Peplin (June 17, 2025)

Jane Grabowski works a typical 9-5 that leaves her feeling uninspired. She may live in the city "where dreams are made of," but she feels like another drone save for the sexy intern that makes her days brighter. There's one issue: Madeline's apprehensive about getting close to Jane.
With a little but of perseverance, Jane finds ways to help Madeline let down her guard. However, Jane's roommate is sure there's someone better for her which is how Jane meets the ready and willing Addy.
Though she knows being involved with Addy won't involve a game of chase, Jane's still drawn to Madeline and begins making decisions that will end with someone's heart being broken.

Amazon

Total Dreamboat by Katelyn Doyle (June 24, 2025)

Hope Lanover's life has turned into a hot mess, but that's nothing a trip planned by her best friend can't solve. Too bad Hope could care less for the cruise they're going on. Ironically, chef Felix Segrave is also thrown for a loop when his parents believe he and his sister deserve a vacation too.
Initially feeling tortured, Hope and Felix are smitten as soon as they spot each other. They know there's chemistry between them, but old hangups explode in their face and leave them left with no choice but to form an alliance that'll save them.
Who knows, they may even fall in love.

Amazon

How Freaking Romantic by Emily Harding (July 1, 2025)

Beatrice Nilsson's reasons to be eternally pissed off have piled up, but she finds ways to channel her frustrations. Everyone in her life can count of her to be a great source of support, but it's obvious she doesn't shower herself with the same attention. Nevertheless, going to task as her best friend experiences a terrible divorce pushes that thought aside.
This is precisely how she finds herself in Nathan Asher's office. Though he's clearly the enemy by being the lawyer of her bestie's ex-husband, Beatrice can't find the willpower to dislike him forever. Every time she tries, she finds herself daydreaming about what falling in love would feel like. But that's also the problem. Is she going to put herself first this time or remain the side character while everyone else gets the life they want?

Amazon

How to Sell a Romanceby Alexa Martin (July 15, 2025)

Kindergarten teacher Emerson Pierce is so desparate for a boost of income that she turns to selling beauty via Petunia Lemon. It sounds like a pyramid scheme disaster waiting to happen, but she'll do anything to survive. Sadly for her, investigative reporter Lucas Miller is on a mission to bring the company down. His mission's personal because it led to his abrupt divorce, but a chance meeting with Emerson clouds his judgement.
In a strange twist, the two discover Lucas' daughter is one of Emerson's students which brings any passion they felt to a halt. But Petunia Lemon's sneaky and it's up to them to uncover its harmful practices...if they can stay focused and out of love.

Amazon

Moderation by Elaine Castillo (August 5, 2025)

Girlie Delmundo moderates content for a living and her precision's helped land her a promotion. Next up is the world of virtual reality where she has the potential to drive forward a new way people communicate. She may alone more often than not, but she's finally experiencing financial stability.

The only thing she doesn't have control over is William Cheung's past and the way her heart beats for him. He may be a Chief Produce Officer, but she's about to find out how one's title doesn't indicate where their future will take them.

While you wait for your pre-order books to arrive, revisit the dark romance novels we can't stop reading!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.