Trader Joe's Recalls Soup Dumplings Over Permanent Marker Mishap

Since it first opened its doors in 1967, Trader Joe's has been the go-to store for exciting and delicious new products, as well as high-quality pantry staples. Over the years, the grocery store has gained a cult-like following, thanks (in no small part) to its exclusive product selection. With a few exceptions, practically everything for sale at Trader Joe's is under the Trader Joe's brand, and products go through an extensive review process to earn that label. Unfortunately, once a product has become part of the store's main inventory, it's possible for issues to start falling through the cracks. In this case, a major recall is in effect for Trader Joe's Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings.

The dumplings, which are actually considered to be one of the best Trader Joe's products of 2024, are being recalled due to the presence of hard plastic inside of them. This plastic seems to be from a permanent marker, and while there have been no reported cases of injury so far, the risk of choking that comes with ingesting a foreign object is high enough that any boxes of affected soup dumplings should be thrown out. If you do experience adverse effects after consuming the dumplings, talk to a medical professional as soon as possible.

Regardless of your location, it's possible that a box of the tainted dumplings may have found their way into your freezer. Per the USDA, you should discard any Trader Joe's Steamed Chicken Soup Dumplings with lot codes 03.07.25.C1-1 and 03.07.25.C1-2 printed on the side of the box. Given the dumplings' popularity, it's likely that the recall will result in many customers feeling disappointed over the loss of their favorite microwave dinner. If you're mourning the loss of your dumplings, consider treating yourself to a full dim sum experience for a more well-rounded meal.

This is far from the grocery chain's first major recall — in fact, Trader Joe's recalled multiple products for listeria risk, including the Southwest Salad, just last month. The company also issued a lot of recalls in 2023 after products were contaminated with a range of foreign objects, including rocks, bugs, and glass. 

There are a couple ways to interpret the grocer's high volume of recalls. It's reasonable to view them as a sign that the overall quality of Trader Joe's is declining as more and more problems are overlooked. But on the other hand, some may value the store's quick responses and transparency about these issues. Only time will tell if all these recalls will prove detrimental to Trader Joe's overall image. In the meantime, don't forget to purge your freezer of any soup dumplings with a bit too much plastic.