Huffington Magazine Issue 39 | Page 83

HUFFINGTON 03.10.13 TASTE TEST Exit $2.79 $2.49 $6.49 $4.69 HONEY NUT O’S CEREAL TRADER JOE’S VS. CHEERIOS TASTING NOTES: This is the exact same case as the traditional Joe’s O’s vs. Cheerios. Trader Joe’s product is paler and milder in flavor, whereas Cheerios are darker and wheatier. There’s not much of a discernible difference in fundamental flavors. THE VERDICT: These appear to be slightly different, but it’s possible that Joe’s O’s are the undercooked Cheerio rejects. (And wow, look at the difference in price.) ALMOND THINS TRADER JOE’S VS. JULES DESTROOPER TASTING NOTES: These look different, but taste exactly the same. Not only is the color slightly off, but the shape is different enough that it makes us wonder whether they can possibly be related. THE VERDICT: These are probably not the same product, but the flavor is so similar that no one would notice the difference if you swapped them. $3.99 $2.75 $0.44/ounce $1.99 $0.52/ounce $3.99 GINGER THINS TRADER JOE’S VS. ANNA’S TASTING NOTES: From looking at these products, they’re clearly not the same. Visually, the scalloped edges are different sizes, and the Trader Joe’s packaging includes twice as many cookies as Anna’s. In terms of flavor, our judges preferred Trader Joe’s — it exhibited more of a spicy flavor and a stronger ginger kick. THE VERDICT: These are not the same. (And Trader Joe’s is the preferred product.) PITA CHIPS TRADER JOE’S VS. STACY’S TASTING NOTES: There is absolutely no question here. We’re not even going to waste your time … THE VERDICT: These are the same product.