Aldi is known for offering great value on many products, but not everything on the shelves lives up to the hype. And who better to share what’s worth it and what’s better off left on the shelf? The very people that stock those shelves. Keep reading to find out which items at Aldi are overrated, according to current and former employees.
1. Chocolate
Aldi’s chocolate often gets rave reviews from customers, but employees aren’t always convinced. "The quality is decent, but it’s not as exceptional as some people think," wrote one former store associate in a Reddit thread. "You can find better chocolate at other stores for a similar price." While the European chocolates might seem like a steal, the taste doesn't always match the expectation, and you're better off trying some specialty chocolate elsewhere.
2. Wine
Aldi’s wine selection is popular for its affordability, but not all bottles are worth the buzz. "A lot of people come in expecting these $5 wines to taste like a $20 bottle, and that’s just not realistic," says an Aldi worker. "Some are good, but others are just okay. You really have to know what you’re buying." The inconsistency in quality makes it a gamble for those looking for a reliable drink. Pop by your local liquor store and ask a store associate for their advice instead, you're sure to find the perfect wine that suits both your taste and price preferences.
3. Canned Soup
Aldi’s canned soups are another item that gets a lot of attention, but employees say the quality can be hit or miss. "The soups are pretty bland and often overly salty," notes one employee. "There are better options out there if you’re willing to spend a little more." Despite their low price, these soups may leave you reaching for extra seasoning. "Honestly, it's not difficult or expensive to make soup at home," the employee continued. "My advice? Pick up some carrots, onion, celery, a rotisserie chicken, some pasta and vegetable broth and make your own soup at home.
4. Coffee
While Aldi’s coffee is often praised for being budget-friendly, some employees feel it doesn’t quite deliver on flavor. "The coffee is just okay—nothing special," said another Redditor. "It’s fine if you’re on a budget, but if you’re a coffee lover, you might want to look elsewhere." For those who prioritize taste, spending a bit more might be worth it. But if you just need that warm pick-me-up in the morning, the more budget-friendly Aldo version might be all you need.
5. Frozen Pizza
Frozen pizza is a staple for many Aldi shoppers, but employees caution that not all varieties are created equal. "Some of the frozen pizzas are just too doughy and don’t have enough toppings," explains an employee. "You’re better off making your own or trying a different brand." Despite the low cost, the lack of balance in flavor and texture leaves some disappointed. If making your own still sounds like too much work, try just adding a few of your own toppings to the frozen one for a tiny upgrade.
6. Bagged Salad
Aldi’s bagged salads are convenient, but they don’t always meet expectations. "The salads can be hit or miss," says one employee. "Sometimes the greens aren’t as fresh as they should be, and you have to eat them right away." The short shelf life and occasional lack of freshness can make these salads less appealing, making these bagged salads less than helpful for meal prepping and/or an on-the-go meal for when things are busy, because they might not be fresh even just a few days after purchase.
7. Cheese
Cheese is another item that can be overrated at Aldi, according to some employees. "The cheese selection looks impressive, but not all of it is great quality," says a former employee. "Some of the cheeses are just bland and don’t have much flavor." While the variety is there, the taste can sometimes be underwhelming. If you're a cheese connoisseur, you might actually be offended by some of the cheese available for purchase at Aldi.
8. Produce
Aldi’s produce section is often praised for its affordability, but employees note that it doesn’t always deliver on freshness, similar to the bagged salads. "You have to be careful with the produce—it can go bad quickly," warns one worker. "Sometimes it looks good in the store, but it doesn’t last long once you get it home." The lower price point can be a trade-off for longevity. If you're planning meals for the week, you might find yourself running back to the store sooner than expected.
9. Bread
Finally, bread is another item that some employees feel is overrated at Aldi. "The bread can be pretty dry and doesn’t always have the best flavor," shares an employee. "It’s cheap, but you’re not getting the same quality as you would from a bakery or a higher-end grocery store." The texture and taste might leave you unsatisfied, especially if you're used to artisanal or freshly baked bread. If you’re particular about your bread, it might be worth exploring other options for better quality.
