Is HelloFresh and other meal delivery services worth the money?
Are meal delivery services like HelloFresh really worth the money?
People often feel too busy to cook. Meal delivery services promise a solution. They send pre-measured ingredients. They also include recipes to cook at home. But is it a good deal? Let's find out.
What do you get with HelloFresh?
HelloFresh sends you a box. Inside, you find all the ingredients you need. Each item is in the exact amount needed for a meal. The box also has recipe cards. Follow these cards to make the meal. It sounds simple. But here are some benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits:
- Saves Time: No need to plan meals or grocery shop.
- Reduces Waste: You get only what you need for each meal.
- Easy to Follow: Recipe cards are simple and clear.
- Variety: Try meals you might not think to cook.
Drawbacks:
- Cost: It can be more expensive than buying groceries.
- Packaging: There is a lot of waste from packaging materials.
- Commitment: May need to subscribe for weekly deliveries.
How do other meal delivery services compare?
Other services, like Blue Apron and Plated, offer similar options. They compete on variety, price, and quality.
Blue Apron:
- Focuses on high-quality ingredients.
- Offers wine pairings.
- Has fewer family-friendly meals.
Plated:
- Offers more flexible plans.
- Allows customization of recipes.
- Can be pricier than others.
Are they worth the cost?
The cost can be a deal-breaker. Meal kits cost more per meal than buying groceries. An average meal from HelloFresh can be $8-$10 per person. Grocery shopping can be cheaper. But, if you often eat out, meal kits are a cheaper alternative.
Consider what you value more:
- Time and Convenience: If you hate grocery shopping and meal planning, these services are great.
- Variety and Learning: If you like trying new foods and recipes, this is a fun way to do it.
- Cooking Skills: If you want to learn to cook, recipe cards make it easy.
HelloFresh and similar services have clear perks. They save time and reduce stress. They also introduce new meals into your diet. But, they come at a higher cost. If convenience is key for you, these are worth the money. If you are budget-focused, buying groceries might be better.
