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Friday, June 20th
Territory, a meal delivery service, presents itself as a convenient solution for those seeking flavorful and nutritious Mediterranean meals. Established in 2011 by a group of friends in Washington D.C., the company has expanded to serve customers across 27 states. However, a closer examination reveals some concerning aspects that warrant a deeper look.
Hardly anyone is talking about them
Interestingly, despite their long-standing history since 2011, Territory's online footprint raises some eyebrows. They lack a Better Business Bureau listing and have a scant six reviews on Trustpilot. Their "About" page tells a familiar story of friends solving a common problem, yet it's notably vague and lacks specific details about the company's evolution. This lack of detailed history and minimal online reviews do spark questions about their transparency and business operations.
At least the chefs seem like real people
The "Meet Our Chefs” page on Territory's website offers a glimpse of authenticity. The company is run by a diverse group of chefs from various backgrounds, including Ethiopia, Turkey, Kathmandu, and Austin, Texas. Some of these chefs are recognized with TV shows and cookbooks, while others are noted for their local culinary contributions. They collaborate with Territory's dietitians to create meals that emphasize quality, nutrient density, and flavor. This chef-centric approach seems to be a unique and engaging aspect of Territory.
No discounts that we could find
In terms of discounts, it seems like Territory doesn't currently have any noticeable special deals or promotions. This might be a disadvantage for budget-conscious customers who want both good quality and convenience along with good value.
Location-based menus
Territory uses your zip code to show menus available in your area, a twist from other meal services. They're in several cities and also deliver to many states. But, if you're not in their zone, you're out of luck until they expand.
Mediterranean-specific plan seems to have been phased out
The Mediterranean-specific meal plan seems like a cool concept, offering 4 weeks of healthy meals with a bonus: you pay for 9 meals but get 10 every week. They also promise tips on healthy eating and access to dietitians. Sounds great, right? But the reality is a bit sad - the sign-up link leads nowhere, which is not only a letdown, but also a head-scratcher. Where did the plan go? Is the website being maintained? We don't know.
No info about saving by ordering in bulk
To find Mediterranean meals on Territory another way, you can go to the main menu page and filter by "Mediterranean”. You'll find 21 menu items where prices range from $13.99 to $17.99 per meal, which is on the higher end for meal delivery services. It's not made clear if you're saving money or not with bulk orders.
"Mediterranean?" Maybe not
Even though they call it Mediterranean, many dishes don't seem to fit the bill. You'll see dishes like Caribbean chicken - not exactly what you'd find in Greece or Italy. They do have some slightly more fitting dishes like Ethiopian Lentils and Moroccan Meatballs, but nothing too exciting.
Quick and easy
Territory scores well here. Some meals are ready to eat as-is, others just need a quick zap in the microwave. The containers are microwave-friendly, but remember to take off the lids. Easy peasy for those busy days.
Claims to be ethical and mostly organic
Territory claims to prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients obtained from trusted farmers and producers. They say they avoid unhealthy additives like inflammatory oils, refined sugar, and artificial preservatives. They care about animal welfare and choose antibiotic-free meat, following the standards of the Global Animal Partnership. They also follow the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guidelines for sustainable seafood. While not all ingredients are organic, Territory works with local chefs and restaurants who often prioritize organic options. They are Real Food Certified, which means they focus on top-quality and ethically sourced ingredients, although not everything is necessarily organic.
Bi-weekly fresh delivery
Territory delivers meals twice a week to keep you eating fresh. You can order up to 12 meals each delivery day, with a minimum requirement of either 4 or 6 meals. For those who need more, they suggest a bit of a workaround - placing an additional order through their website.
Meal freshness and consumption guide
Territory includes helpful suggestions on meal labels, guiding you on which meals to eat first based on ingredient freshness. This tip, especially about leafy greens, is a nice touch for ensuring you're eating your meals at their best. For those receiving shipments via UPS, Territory uses a Fresh Tag card to indicate if meals have remained at a safe temperature. The color-changing sticker is a smart, albeit rare, feature in meal delivery services, adding an extra layer of assurance about meal safety.
Higher than average delivery charges
Shipping isn't cheap. You'll pay $9.99 per delivery in most areas, but in places like New York and San Francisco, it's $10.99. If you're getting deliveries twice a week, these costs add up. For longer distances, they use UPS, and the fees range from $11.99 to $17.99 per week, based on two-day shipping rates.
Potential for unwanted meals
To cancel, you need to log in, go to your Dashboard, select "Manage Subscription” and then find the option to cancel. The exact steps aren't clear, and it seems like there might be a few hoops to jump through. This lack of clarity about the cancellation process is something that gives us pause. On top of that, some customers have complained about being automatically opted into meals they didn't choose, labeling Territory as a scam.
Limited online presence is a red flag
We'll say it again - we find it concerning that Territory isn't rated by the Better Business Bureau, especially since they've been operating since 2011. Their presence on Trustpilot is equally puzzling, with only six reviews to their name. This scant feedback, featuring a single claim of being a "scam" and five other reviews whose authenticity we find questionable, results in a lukewarm overall score of 3.2.
Attention to detail is lacking
We've also noticed a few typos on Territory's platform - small details, yes, but they make us question the company's overall meticulousness. Their limited online footprint over the years makes us wonder about their business sustainability. The lack of abundant customer feedback, combined with inconsistencies in their menu offerings (like the Mediterranean menu not really aligning with traditional Mediterranean cuisine) and missing web pages, raises red flags for us.
Look elsewhere
We would not advise you to try Territory. While we always look for the positives, the uncertainties surrounding their service quality and customer experience are too important to ignore. For those seeking a reliable meal delivery service, we recommend exploring our top-rated alternatives. These services, priced lower than Territory, tend to offer more transparency and reliability, which we believe is really important for a satisfactory customer experience.
In a world where the Mediterranean diet has been lauded for its heart-healthy benefits and flavorful palette, Mediterranean meal delivery services are carving out a significant niche in the food delivery industry. And it's no wonder - there are a lot of reasons why mediterranean meal delivery has become so popular.
First, many people find it challenging to prepare homemade meals every day. Mediterranean meal delivery services offer a much more convenient solution by providing ready-to-eat, nutritious options. It's like having a personal chef curate a menu inspired by the coastal cuisines of the Mediterranean, saving you time and effort without compromising on flavor.
Of course, people are drawn to the mediterranean diet for its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients. The Mediterranean region is blessed with an abundance of fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and herbs that create a symphony of tastes. With a focus on lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables, these dishes are not just delicious but also good for your well-being. People appreciate the variety and the burst of natural goodness that comes with each bite. It's like a mini-vacation for your taste buds.
Imagine the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean, the aroma of fresh herbs, and the rich flavors of olive oil and seafood. That's the essence of a Mediterranean diet, and it's not just about tantalizing your taste buds. This diet has been celebrated for its potential in promoting heart health, aiding in weight management, and even contributing to a longer life. Now, picture the luxury of having these wholesome, delectable meals delivered right to your doorstep. No need to pore over recipes or hunt for exotic ingredients: Mediterranean meal delivery services offer a seamless way to enjoy these benefits without the hassle of meal planning and preparation.
The variety and customization offered by these services are noteworthy. Whether you're a fan of Greek, Italian, Spanish, or any other Mediterranean cuisine, there's a range of options to satisfy your cravings. These services cater to various dietary preferences, offering vegetarian, vegan, and seafood-based dishes, all infused with the rich flavors and health benefits characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
Yet, with the increasing number of options in this sector, the challenge lies in choosing the right service. With so many competing for your attention, finding one that aligns with your taste preferences, dietary needs, and budget can be overwhelming.
Here are some key points to consider when selecting a Mediterranean meal delivery service:
At Top Consumer Reviews, we have meticulously examined and rated the top Mediterranean meal delivery services available. Our goal is to help you find a service that not only delights your palate but also enriches your lifestyle with the healthful, vibrant essence of Mediterranean cuisine.
Select any 2 Mediterranean Meal Delivery to compare them head to head