Despite receiving awards for product innovation, Trader Joe’s has an unenviable record for both labor relations and recalls.  Year to date, the Company has taken action on six products including cookies, falafel and tamales.

 It is significant that all six recalls involved either undeclared allergens or foreign material.  These defects should be under the control of suppliers.  Trader Joe’s obviously must establish tighter control over quality imposed by manufacturers.  Perhaps it is because the company favors small producers with unique products from whom it can obtain favorable terms, that it has created an inherent vulnerability. Establishing production standards that are audited requires attention before negative publicity impacts consumer loyalty.