Trader Joe's New Gummy Worms Spark Mass Bathroom Troubles

Trader Joe's shoppers are reportedly facing an unexpected and rather intense side effect from the grocery chain's new Sweet and Sour Gummy Worms. What was marketed as a zero-sugar treat has quickly become infamous for triggering widespread gastrointestinal distress, prompting a wave of online accounts detailing what many are calling "extended bathroom emergencies."

The new gummies, which began appearing on shelves in early May 2026, around specific dates like May 5, May 7, May 11, and May 12, promised a guilt-free indulgence. They achieve their sweetness through a blend of allulose, organic erythritol, and monk fruit extract, with natural fruit juices providing color and flavor. However, the formulation also packs a significant punch of fiber, primarily from resistant tapioca dextrin and resistant corn maltodextrin. Each eight-piece serving contains a remarkable 14 grams of dietary fiber—roughly half of an average adult's recommended daily intake.

To put that into perspective, a full bag of these gummy worms delivers about 70 grams of fiber. Many common fiber supplements, such as Metamucil, typically offer around 5 grams per serving, meaning a small handful of these candies can provide nearly triple that amount. This potent combination has led to unsuspecting consumers experiencing symptoms ranging from gassiness and bloating to severe diarrhea and what one user graphically termed "colonic despair."

Social media platforms, including Threads, Reddit, and TikTok, quickly became a forum for frustrated—and sometimes amused—consumers to share their experiences. One Threads user pointed out, “The new sour gummy worms at Trader Joe's have 14g of fiber in every 8 pieces. That's an unholy amount of fiber in CANDY.” Another comment warned, “Between the dextrin and the erythritol, these will clean you out better than a colonoscopy prep.” On Reddit, a user sagely advised, “This combo (sour + zero sugar + fiber) WILL have you on your toilet if you go too ham. PACE YOURSELF.” Some individuals reported enduring digestive consequences for several days, especially after consuming an entire bag without realizing the extreme fiber load.