This Surprisingly 'Delightful' Trader Joe's Snack Has a Major Downside

A New Favorite Snack from Trader Joe’s

After coming across Trader Joe’s Watermelon Freeze-Dried Candies earlier this month, I was immediately drawn in by their vibrant colors and the promise of a sweet-and-sour flavor experience with every bite. With freeze-dried treats making a big splash this year, it felt like the perfect time to try them out for myself.

When I arrived at my local store, I was happy to find them still on the shelves—right in the front, hanging from a pillar as soon as I walked in. Marketed by Trader Joe’s as a candy “whose character matches the fun it promotes,” these colorful treats definitely live up to that description.

A Unique Flavor Experience

From the very first bite, I knew I had discovered something special. It reminded me of the textures and flavors I hadn’t experienced since the last time I put Pop Rocks in my mouth, devoured a whole stick of cotton candy, or downed a fistful of Skittles. These candies felt both new and unique, yet familiar and comforting at the same time. Their shape resembled cheese balls—light and airy—but they dissolved in my mouth like cotton candy, all while delivering a sharp, sour kick that made my face twist in delight.

The Price Point Dilemma

However, there is one major drawback: the price. These bite-sized puffs may catch your eye with their bright, beautiful pastel tones and a list of natural ingredients—including spirulina, paprika, vegetable juice, turmeric, and fruit juice—but a 1.5-ounce bag comes with a $3.99 price tag. This could be enough to turn off some potential customers who are on the fence. While the bright colors, strong tropical flavors, and a hint of sourness are always a hit, the cost remains a significant factor.

On Reddit, one fan shared, “These are a little pricey but so good. Especially the sour aftertaste—yum! I wish they had more flavors, though.” Another user echoed the sentiment about the price, adding, “It’s the perfect sour candy for me.”

Personal Take on the Snack

I strongly identified with that sentiment while enjoying my first handful. At first, I didn’t mind the price, but the truth is, what you get in each bag isn’t quite worth what you pay. Unless the price is reduced or a larger 3-ounce bag becomes available, I’m not sure this snack will take off the way it has the potential to.

Who Will Love These Candies?

If you enjoy candies that make your face pucker, textures that dissolve in your mouth, and colors that make you question whether you’ve taken something unusual, then these candies are definitely for you. Even though fans aren’t thrilled with the price tag, that doesn’t change the fact that the overwhelming majority—myself included—thoroughly enjoyed this sweet-and-sour treat.

Next time you visit Trader Joe’s, grab a bag and see for yourself why freeze-dried candies are getting so much attention. Just be warned—the flavor in every bite is intense, so proceed with caution.