Does Trader Joe's Sell Purple Carrots?

January 10, 2026 •

4 min read

Before the 17th century, most cultivated carrots were not orange but rather purple, white, or yellow. So, does Trader Joe's sell purple carrots, bringing this historical vegetable back to modern kitchens? Yes, the popular grocery chain frequently offers purple carrots, often as part of a mixed color bag.

Quick Summary

Trader Joe's carries purple carrots within its mixed-color carrot packs, such as 'Organic Carrots of Many Colors.' Availability is seasonal and varies by location, so checking the produce section or calling your local store is the best approach. These colorful carrots offer a different nutritional profile, including anthocyanins, and are a vibrant addition to many dishes. Their flavor is similar to standard carrots, though some find them slightly sweeter or earthier.

Key Points

Trader Joe's Availability: Purple carrots are typically found in mixed packs, such as 'Organic Carrots of Many Colors,' rather than sold individually.
Nutritional Value: The purple color comes from anthocyanin antioxidants, offering different health benefits than the beta-carotene in orange carrots.
Unique Flavor: Purple carrots have a distinct flavor profile, often described as earthier or slightly peppery, with some varieties being sweeter.
Culinary Use: The carrots can be roasted, braised, or used raw in salads to add vibrant color and flavor, though their pigment can bleed during cooking.
Availability Varies: The stock of these mixed-color carrots is often seasonal, and it's best to check with your local store for current availability.
Colorful History: Carrots were originally purple before the orange variety was bred by Dutch farmers in the 17th century.

Yes, Trader Joe's Carries Purple Carrots in Blends

If you're searching for vibrant, jewel-toned purple carrots, you can often find them at Trader Joe's. They are typically sold as part of a medley, such as the "Organic Carrots of Many Colors" or the pre-cut "Les Petites Carrots of Many Colors". These multi-colored packs are not only visually appealing but also a convenient way to enjoy the unique qualities of different carrot varieties. While you may not always find a standalone bag of only purple carrots, the mixed assortment ensures you get to try them alongside their orange, yellow, and white counterparts.

What to Expect from Trader Joe's Purple Carrots

The purple carrots found at Trader Joe's have a distinct, slightly peppery flavor that is sometimes described as earthier than the common orange carrot. The vivid color comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants also found in blueberries and red cabbage. This gives them a nutritional edge, providing anti-inflammatory benefits that differ from the beta-carotene found in orange carrots. Cooking with these carrots can also be a colorful experience; the purple pigment may bleed into other ingredients, adding an unexpected but beautiful hue to your dish.

Availability and Product Variations

The stock of Trader Joe's colorful carrots, including the purple variety, can vary. These items are often seasonal, and product availability is dependent on your specific store and region. In addition to the whole carrots sold by the bag, Trader Joe's has also offered pre-cut options like "Colorful Carrot Coins," which contain purple carrots. If you're planning a specific recipe that requires purple carrots, it's a good idea to check your local store's produce section or call ahead to confirm if the multi-colored bags are in stock.

Creative Ways to Use Trader Joe's Purple Carrots

Beyond basic roasting, there are many ways to incorporate purple carrots into your cooking. They hold their shape and color well, making them ideal for adding a pop of color to salads and side dishes. Their natural sweetness is enhanced by roasting, while a quick braise can create a tender, flavorful vegetable. Some customers have even used them in baked goods like purple carrot cake.

Here are some ideas for using Trader Joe's purple carrots:

Roasted Medley: Toss with olive oil, herbs like thyme, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender and caramelized.
Colorful Salads: Slice thinly and add raw to salads for a sweet crunch and visual appeal.
Braised Carrots: Cook gently in a pan with butter, a splash of orange juice, and basil for a rich, buttery side dish.
Pickled Carrots: Use sushi vinegar to create vibrant pickled purple carrots that are perfect for garnishes or sandwiches.
Soups and Stews: While the color might bleed, they add a beautiful, earthy sweetness to hearty soups.

How Trader Joe's Produce Compares

Trader Joe's is known for its curated selection of produce, often including unique or seasonal items not found at traditional supermarkets. Here's a comparison to help you understand their offerings relative to other retailers.


Feature	Trader Joe's Colorful Carrots	Conventional Supermarket Carrots	Specialty/Farmers Market Carrots
Availability	Often seasonal; sold in mixed bags.	Typically orange; available year-round.	Can include various colors, often very fresh and local.
Cost	Generally affordable, good value for specialty item.	Lowest cost per pound for standard varieties.	Often higher price point for heirloom or unique varieties.
Nutritional Benefits	Rich in anthocyanins (purple pigment), good source of vitamin A.	Rich in beta-carotene (orange pigment), good source of vitamin A.	Varies by color; can offer a wide spectrum of nutrients.
Taste Profile	Earthier, sometimes spicier or sweeter notes.	Mildly sweet, classic carrot flavor.	Varies greatly depending on the variety and freshness.
Convenience	Sold in pre-packaged bags, sometimes pre-cut.	Loose or bagged, require peeling/trimming.	Sold loose or by the bunch, might have tops on.

Conclusion

In short, the answer to "Does Trader Joe's sell purple carrots?" is yes, but with a nuance. They are most commonly available in a mixed bag of assorted colors rather than as a single-color pack. This is a deliberate choice that offers customers a visually striking and nutritionally diverse product. Next time you're browsing the produce aisle, keep an eye out for the 'Carrots of Many Colors' and add a vibrant, historically significant vegetable to your next meal. For more unique food finds, consider exploring the seasonal produce offerings at your local Trader Joe's.

One more thing...

For more information on the surprising history of this colorful root vegetable, visit The World Carrot Museum, which details how carrots were originally purple before Dutch farmers bred the orange variety we know today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, while all carrots are healthy, purple carrots contain anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants also found in blueberries, which provide different health benefits compared to the beta-carotene found in orange carrots.

It depends on the product. Trader Joe's offers both whole, organic 'Carrots of Many Colors' that need to be peeled, as well as 'Les Petites Carrots of Many Colors,' which are pre-peeled and trimmed.

No, Trader Joe's most commonly sells purple carrots as part of a mixed-color bag that also includes orange, yellow, and white varieties. Dedicated single-color bags are not standard.

Yes, the vibrant purple pigment can bleed into other ingredients during cooking, which may give your dish a purple tint. This is particularly noticeable in soups or when sautéing.

Trader Joe's offers an 'Organic Carrots of Many Colors' product, which includes organic purple carrots. Product availability and specific offerings may vary by location.

The flavor is similar to regular orange carrots but can have a slightly earthier, sometimes spicier, or sweeter note. The taste can vary depending on the specific growing conditions and variety.

The availability of the mixed-color carrot bags is often seasonal. While they appear frequently, it's not a guaranteed year-round product at all locations.