September 5, 2022

Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn Review

We are generally fans of Trader Joe's flavored popcorn. Both the Key Lime and the Maple & Sea Salt varieties have garnered 5 stars from us. 

(Let us not speak of the Synergistically Seasoned Popcorn, though.)


Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn Review

Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn is sold in a 5.5-ounce bag and will cost you around $2.49. I've seen this displayed on an end cap, but today it was with the other chips and popcorn. 


Described on the bag as having a "...bright and sweet pineapple flavor, a bit of tartness, and ends with a building heat." 


Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn ingredients and nutrition

The tart flavors come from pineapple powder, lime oil, and citric acid. The heat comes from capsicum oleoresin...an organic resin derived from chile peppers. It's also used in pepper spray! In other words, do not touch your eyes while snacking on this popcorn. 


Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn Review

Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn Review

He (Mark) says: These popcorn kernels were so light and fluffy! The pineapple flavor was subtle, but then the chili kicked in. If you like medium hot to hot spiced foods and chili powder/flavor, you will love this even if you don't like pineapple. Sadly, it was too hot for this Texan. I had to quit and run for some buttered bread to put out the fire (we had no ice cream, so this is an awesome backup). If I could have handled the spice level, I would have devoured the bowl Mrs. Bake at 350 gave me. Also, this snack may not be a safe spice level for the kiddos. 

Overall rating: 4 of 5 stars


She (Bridget) says: Let me get technical first. I think this should be called CHILE Pineapple Popcorn, not CHILI. I don't think we're looking for the flavor of beef chili here. (OK, I feel better.) When you open the bag, you'll be hit with a strong pineapple scent, but the taste isn't as robust. It's there, but the heat is the star here. The sweet + heat combo is very satisfying - at first. The heat builds as you go, so be prepared. I know beer doesn't put out heat, but I think this would be excellent paired with a wheat beer. While I loved this, the spice was a tad too much, even for this lover of spicy food. 

Overall rating: 4 of 5 stars


Would we buy this again? I think we'll just stock up on the Key Lime or Maple Sea Salt variety. 


Trader Joe's Chili Pineapple Kettle Popcorn: Love the heat? This might be for you! 

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