Dollar Tree employees share hidden gems you’re missing

Dollar Tree Employees Share Their Favorite Overlooked Food Finds

Grocery prices have been on the rise for years, and many shoppers are feeling the pinch. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, food prices increased by about 25% between 2020 and 2024, making budget-friendly options more important than ever. Dollar Tree, with over 9,000 stores across the U.S. and Canada, has long provided a cost-effective alternative for everyday essentials. While most items still fall within the $1.25 to $1.50 range, the store has expanded to include some products priced up to $7.

Beyond party supplies and cleaning products, Dollar Tree’s food aisle offers a rotating selection of name-brand snacks, pantry staples, and frozen goods that can change weekly. We asked employees to share the products they believe shoppers often overlook. Here are five picks worth considering adding to your cart.

1. Boom Chicka Pop Popcorn

At $1.25 per bag, Boom Chicka Pop is a name-brand popcorn option available at Dollar Tree in several flavors. Popcorn is a great snack because it’s a 100% whole-grain food, and one serving provides about a third of the daily whole-grain intake most adults need. Simon, a San Diego Dollar Tree employee, says “it’s a good snack and a good deal,” and notes that the flavor selection may vary by visit since the bags move quickly.

2. Lil’ Dutch Maid Cookies

Lil’ Dutch Maid cookies come in several varieties at Dollar Tree, including almond windmill cookies, lemon creme cookies, or coconut bar cookies, all for $1.25. Matthew, a San Diego Dollar Tree employee, says “they’re more underrated than most shoppers realize.” These cookies work just as well crumbled over vanilla ice cream or yogurt as they do straight out of the bag. The selection does change by location and season, so it’s worth checking what your store has in stock.

3. Hillshire Snacking Italian Dry Salami Plate

At $3, the Hillshire Snacking plate includes Italian dry salami, natural Gouda cheese, and toasted rounds, making it a ready-to-eat option that works for a solo lunch or a last-minute appetizer. Alex, a San Diego Dollar Tree employee, says customers are always happy when they find it. “It’s a great little snack plate for the price,” he adds. Think of it as a scaled-down charcuterie board at a fraction of the cost you’d find at a grocery store or specialty retailer. It’s high in protein and doesn’t require any prep, making it an easy grab when you need something filling on the go.

4. Bumble Bee Light Tuna in Water Packet

At $1.50 per pouch, the Bumble Bee light tuna in water packet is one of the more nutritionally solid finds in the store. Alex recommends grabbing a few at a time. “It’s a good snack and it’s easy to use,” he says. Tuna is particularly valued for its protein content and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to heart health. Each packet requires no can opener and is easy to toss into a salad, mix with crackers, or use as the base of a quick pasta dish.

5. Frozen Blueberries

A 20-ounce bag of frozen blueberries for $3 is one of the stronger values in the store’s freezer section. “The frozen fruit is something people really don’t expect to find here,” says Simon. Frozen blueberries are nutritionally comparable to fresh and contain antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Blend them into smoothies, stir them into oatmeal, or bake them into muffins. Keeping a bag in the freezer means you always have a versatile, nutrient-dense ingredient on hand.

Expert Take

Dollar Tree’s food aisle has more to offer than most shoppers realize, and the people stocking the shelves are the first to know what’s worth grabbing. From the protein-packed Bumble Bee tuna packets and Hillshire Snacking plates to the antioxidant-rich frozen blueberries, there are genuinely nutritious options hiding in plain sight alongside the more indulgent treats.

The key, according to the employees we spoke with, is simply paying attention. Because Dollar Tree’s inventory rotates frequently, items like Boom Chicka Pop and the Lil’ Dutch Maid cookies may not be there every visit. That’s all the more reason to know what you’re looking for so you can grab it when you see it.