Trader Joe’s has built its reputation on offering trendy, exclusive items that range from mini pastel tote bags to the ever-popular everything bagel seasoning blend.
Recently, one of their popular items, the ‘Uncured Ham & Swiss Pockets’—delicious croissant pastries filled with uncured ham and cheese—earned praise for their flaky texture and convenient on-the-go packaging.
However, this product hasn’t won over all of its consumers.
In a recent discussion on Reddit, a shopper expressed disappointment, questioning if they received a particularly skimpy version of the pastry.
“Did anyone else notice the ham is just one slice with a tiny bit of cheese?” the customer asked. “The croissant was tasty, but with so little ham, it’s hard to justify.”
The disappointed customer joked that Trader Joe’s should have called it a ‘Croissant, Cheese and Ham Pocket’ instead because of the disappointing pastry-to-filling ratio.
Trader Joe’s description of their ‘handy pockets’ claims the frozen item makes ‘a wonderfully hearty breakfast, at home or on the go, and they also work quite well as a brunch option, alongside a spread of your favorite eggs and fruit.’
Each box comes with two individually wrapped pockets for $4.99 and must be kept in the freezer.
There are more than 600 Trader Joe’s locations across 43 states, making it one of the largest chain grocery stores
Trader Joe’s Uncured Ham and Swiss Cheese Pockets cost $4.99 at the grocery store
More social media users chimed in, dubbing the new breakfast option at Trader Joe’s ‘underwhelming,’ especially compared to other options.
‘I love ham and cheese and was so underwhelmed,’ one Reddit user confirmed. ‘It’s just so bland somehow.’
‘I think this has been my biggest letdown item so far this year,’ another agreed. ‘It could have changed people’s lives.’
Others said their biggest complaint wasn’t the amount of filling at all, but getting the cooking instructions just right.
‘I find that when I air fry them if do it long enough for the ham and cheese to be warm, the croissant is so overcooked and dry,’ another Reddit user added. ‘But when the outside is perfect the inside is cold. I can’t find a good balance.’
Some were quick to defend the Trader Joe’s item, with one sharing that it’s a ‘pretty standard amount’ of meat and cheese in each pastry.
‘I wanted to get more for my money so I tried the ones at Costco – now that’s a let down,’ one Reddit user added. ‘Literally had to throw them away. Once you get cooking the Trader Joe’s ones the right away they are amazing.’
It’s unclear how long the ham and cheese pockets will stick around the grocery store, as the grocery chain is known for switching out products based on the season.
Trader Joe’s customers shared their love for products like chicken tikka masala and chicken soup dumplings
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Trader Joe’s, known for its quirky branding and private-label grocery items, first opened in Pasadena, California, in 1967.
In recent years, the brand developed a cult following, with some social media users claiming it’s their go-to spot for snacks, ready-made frozen meals – and branded mini tote bags.
According to the company, it plans to continue opening new stores across the United States as demand continues to grow.
Trader Joe’s added 34 locations in 2024 and a further 43 in 2025, taking its nationwide footprint to more than 600 stores across 43 states.