Trader Joe’s Hit With Another Recall As New Contamination Fears Emerge

Generally known for its quality and affordable prices, Trader Joe’s may be starting to build a reputation for something else: recalls.

On Tuesday, Trader Joe’s pizza products came under scrutiny after reports of possible metal contamination. The FDA issued a Class II recall — which indicates a low risk of serious health consequences — for products like prepared pizza kits and packaged focaccia bread.

On March 3, Trader Joe’s recalled more than 10 million pounds of fried rice products due to concerns over possible glass contamination. Trader Joe’s has recall notices at every register in its stores to help spread the information to customers. 

“We value information and clear communication. Should a recall become necessary, we waste no time in providing our customers detail,” says the retailer. “Our recall-related communications go well beyond regulatory requirements: we share news through in-store signs, on our website, and through email alerts.”

If you purchased any of the following items, check the “Best By” dates:

• Chicken Fried Rice — 03/04/2026 through 02/10/2027
• Vegetable Fried Rice — 02/28/2026 through 11/19/2026
• Japanese Style Fried Rice — 02/28/2026 through 11/14/2026
• Chicken Shu Mai — 03/13/2026 through 10/23/2026

This is not an isolated issue. In 2025, the retailer also recalled products including Moonlight Fresh Yellow Peaches (possible listeria contamination), Cajun-Style Fettuccine Alfredo, the Turkey Gobbler Wrap, Pepperoni Pizza, Sesame Miso Salad, and more. All of the store’s previous recalls are archived on the Trader Joe’s website. 

While some recalls were issued out of an “abundance of caution,” others involved more serious risks — including potential exposure to listeria and botulism. In one of the most severe cases, six deaths and 25 hospitalizations were linked to contaminated Cajun chicken products.

According to Mashed, some FDA workers have even nicknamed the chain “Recall Joe’s.” Part of that reputation comes from the company’s tendency to pull products quickly—even when not strictly required by regulators.

For example, the Sesame Miso Salad recall was triggered after about 500 units were mistakenly packaged with parmesan cheese instead of crispy onions — an error that could pose a risk to people with dairy allergies. At the same time, many of Trader Joe’s recalls stem from its heavy reliance on third-party manufacturers, which increases the chances of supply chain issues affecting its shelves.

The store issues a full refund for any recalled products brought back into the store.