The Campaign Against Israeli Products
An organized movement is actively pressuring Trader Joe’s to remove Israeli products from its shelves. Spearheaded by CODEPINK, a far-left activist group, this initiative has been ongoing for over a year and a half. Recently, they renewed their efforts, and it’s essential for the kosher community to be aware and take action.
The positive update is that Trader Joe’s has not yielded to this pressure. The retailer continues to stock Israeli products across its nationwide locations. Even better, there are ways we can help ensure this remains the case.
What CODEPINK Is Doing
CODEPINK’s campaign demands Trader Joe’s cease all sales of Israeli products. Their tactics have included petitions, in-store demonstrations, sing-alongs, and inundating the corporate office with letters. In a documented instance, activists entered a Trader Joe’s and publicly removed Israeli items from the shelves.
The specific products under scrutiny are well-known among kosher shoppers. These include Bamba puffed peanut and corn snacks (both original and hazelnut flavors), Dorot Gardens crushed garlic and ginger cubes, and Israeli sheep’s milk feta cheese. These items are widely available in Trader Joe’s stores across the country and often carry reliable kosher certification.
What You Can Do Right Now
The response to this boycott is referred to as a “buycott.” Rather than abstaining from purchasing, consumers are encouraged to support Trader Joe’s by intentionally buying Israeli products. Organizations such as StandWithUs, EndJewHatred, and the Zionist Organization of America have urged their supporters to partake. Notably, former New York Assemblyman Dov Hikind took immediate action by visiting his local Trader Joe’s after hearing about the boycott.
Below is a comprehensive list of Israeli products available at stores (compiled by @koshertraderjoes):
Snacks & Dairy
- Trader Joe’s Bamba Puffed Peanut & Corn Snacks (Original)
- Trader Joe’s Bamba with Hazelnut Crème Filling
- Trader Joe’s Israeli Feta Cheese (sheep’s milk, cholov yisroel, in brine)
Pantry
- Dorot Gardens Crushed Garlic Cubes
- Dorot Gardens Crushed Ginger Cubes
- Aviv Passover Matzos (baked and packed in Bnei Brak, Israel)
Wine (available in select regions)
- Yarden Mount Hermon Cabernet
- Yarden Mount Hermon White
- Givon Chardonnay
- Givon Cabernet
- Tishbi Cabernet Syrah
Purchasing even a single item from this list sends a powerful message. While at the store, consider thanking the manager for continuing to stock Israeli products. Trader Joe’s values customer feedback, and positive remarks from loyal shoppers are impactful.
Additionally, you can reach out to Trader Joe’s customer relations by calling 1-626-599-3817 or using the contact form on traderjoes.com to express your appreciation for their commitment to carrying Israeli items.
A Note on the Kosher Products
Many shoppers may not realize the extensive range of Israeli products available at Trader Joe’s. The Israeli feta cheese is cholov yisroel, certified by B.D.Z. Mehadrin. The Dorot garlic and ginger cubes are convenient pantry staples that remove the hassle of fresh herb preparation. Aviv Passover Matzos are produced and packaged in Bnei Brak. Moreover, their wine selection features reputable Israeli brands like Yarden, Givon, and Tishbi, all boasting kosher certification in select regions.
These products merit purchase on their own, and right now, buying them carries additional significance.
For detailed kosher certification insight on Trader Joe’s Israeli offerings, refer to our previous coverage, which provides a thorough overview of certification details and the responsible agencies.
Why This Matters
Trader Joe’s has previously stood firm against similar pressures. During boycott attempts in 2005 and 2006, the company maintained its Israeli product lines, demonstrating a commitment that continues today. This historical adherence to principle can be attributed in part to an organized Jewish and pro-Israel response, which has reassured the company of its decision to stand firm.
The economic rationale behind a buycott is clear. Just as CODEPINK can mobilize efforts that threaten Trader Joe’s financial stability, the Jewish community and its allies can do the same in support. Each Israeli product purchased reinforces the notion that these items maintain a strong customer base ready to support them.
In summary, supporting Trader Joe’s continues to be crucial in rebuffing calls to remove Israeli products. Together, we can ensure a diverse selection of kosher items remains available to shoppers across the country.
