The Price of Peas

Last week, the price of fresh peas at Trader Joe's was $4.49 for 10 ounces. The price at Wegmans for fresh shelled 8 ounces was $2.79. It used to be much less expensive at Trader Joe’s.

Cherry picking at different grocery stores is the only way to get the best prices. It's always been a complicated landscape for food shoppers. “Trader Joe's is the cheapest.” and “Whole Foods is the most expensive.” doesn’t always hold true. Whole Foods has their store brand and their weekly sales. Stores have different specialties, different sources of distribution. Whole Foods is expensive around the country but one of the few games in town for New Yorkers without a car.

Being the home cook that I am in my heart, Wegmans is the king of the pre-chop.  Their chopped onions are finely minced, not just a coarse chop like Trader Joe’s. The management of their Astor Place store is so present, rare for New York City, it might be worth a price differential.

Green Juice Fresh Press 15.2 Fl. Oz is now $4.29 at Trader Joe’s, that may have nearly doubled in price recently. Much cheaper to make it yourself but not always an option.

Food people understand these nuances and the different realities of these food purveyors.