The Best Vegan Meal Delivery

Friday, October 4th

2024 Vegan Meal Delivery Reviews

Hungryroot

• Price per serving: Starts at $9.99
• Days of food: Depends on number of people on your plan
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner): All meals, plus groceries
• Calories per meal: 400-600
• Number of vegan meals: Over 2,000
• Prep time: 10 minutes

Founded in 2015, Hungryroot has carved out a unique niche in the world of online grocery and meal delivery services, especially for those following a vegan lifestyle. What sets Hungryroot apart is its dual focus: it's not just a meal kit company but also a full-fledged online grocer. This means that vegans, along with anyone looking to eat healthily, can find a range of groceries, from fresh produce to plant-based treats, all in one convenient place.

Credit-based pricing

Hungryroot's approach to meal planning and delivery services is a bit different, especially when it comes to their pricing and plan customization. Unlike traditional meal delivery services that charge per meal or item, Hungryroot operates on a credit system, giving you a different kind of control over your food choices. Customers receive a certain number of credits based on their chosen plan size. Each item, be it a recipe or an individual grocery, is assigned a specific credit value. This system allows you to mix and match recipes and groceries to fill your box up to the limit of your allotted credits. Say you've got 33 credits, and you've got your eye on a few 9-credit recipes. Grab those, and you've got enough left over for a handful of snacks. Prefer a more varied assortment of lower-credit items? That's possible too. It's a bit like shopping with a prepaid card; the value is in your hands, and you decide how to spend it.

Extensive quiz to match you with the best plan

When you land on the Hungryroot site, you'll be prompted to take a quiz. Don't just skip over this - it's how your plan will be tailored not just to your budget, but also to your family size, dietary preferences, and health goals. It's also your golden ticket to unlocking the 30% discount and mysterious free gift they offer. We can't say for sure (because they require billing info before revealing the results), but you should be presented with the pricing structure that best fits your needs at the end.

Hungryroot takes your flavor preferences into account

This quiz delves into the nitty-gritty of your eating habits, preferences, and even your kitchen appliances. Why? So that every bite you take feels like it was made with you in mind. You'll start with the basics: who's eating and what your food goals are. But then, Hungryroot takes it a step further. They're not just asking if you're a veggie-lover or a meat-eater; they want to know how spicy you like your food, how much time you want to spend in the kitchen, and even the specific flavors your palate prefers. You'll even be asked about which specific plant-based proteins you like, so you can avoid any you don't like (get back, seitan!) Hungryroot has considered everything to create a plan that feels personal, not just a one-size-fits-all menu.

Free shipping on plans over $65

Most Hungryroot's plans range from $60 to $100 per week. For plans under $70, there's a shipping fee of $6.99, which is pretty decent in the realm of vegan meal delivery services. However, for plans $70 and above, shipping is free - something you won't find with some of Hungryroot's competitors. This structure subtly encourages customers to opt for larger plans, which you can view as a clever business move or a gentle nudge towards making healthier, more diverse food choices.

Quick cook time

One of the most laudable features of Hungryroot is the speed at which meals come together. Many of their meals can be prepared in as little as 10 minutes, a boon for busy bees and culinary novices alike. Imagine coming home after a long day and having a wholesome meal ready in about the same time it takes to watch your favorite TV show's intro. This rapid turnaround is not just a promise but a reality, as echoed by customer reviews. One review highlights a common skepticism with meal kits - they often overpromise and underdeliver on preparation time. However, Hungryroot seems to break this mold, delivering on its promise of quick, hassle-free cooking. Additionally, the portion sizes are generous enough to cover next-day lunches.

Ingredients are not pre-proportioned

Diverging from the typical meal kit path, Hungryroot sends full-sized groceries instead of pre-portioned ingredients. That means you can prepare your recipes to your own tastes and nutritional needs, like giving yourself an extra serving of veggies.

Get all your groceries at Hungryroot

Hungryroot's website describes itself as a kind of hybrid service: it's not just a meal kit or a grocery delivery service, but a mix of both. This means you can get all your regular groceries along with meal plans. Whether you want snacks on hand like cherry tomatoes or extra mushrooms to add to a Hungryroot meal, it's all hassle-free. You may never need to go to the grocery store again.

Endless options

Hungryroot has a huge selection of over 2,000 recipes for all kinds of diets. When you look for vegan options, you'll find so many choices you might not reach the end of the list. The menu updates every week, too. You can pick what suits you best by filtering out certain allergens, choosing lower-calorie meals, deciding how long you want to cook, or picking your favorite spice level and proteins like tofu, tempeh, meat alternatives, or beans. There's something for every meal, whether it's a main dish, a grain bowl, pasta, tacos, quick stir-fries, and even 2-in-1 meals (like a chimichurri veggie pizza with a kid-friendly plain cheese version) that both adults and kids will love.

Snacks and desserts available

A typical day with Hungryroot might look like Seared Vegan Sausages and Roasted Harvest Veggies for breakfast (340 calories, 21g of protein). For lunch, you could try a light yet satisfying Kale + Quinoa Spinach Pita Sandwich (360 calories, 13g of protein), and for dinner, enjoy a Curry Lemongrass Tofu Jasmine Rice Bowl for dinner (650 calories, 25g of protein). And remember, vegan snacks and desserts are always to be found in the "Groceries” tab, ready to satisfy any cravings you might have.

Not totally organic

Hungryroot claims to carefully choose nutritious and easy-to-prepare ingredients that taste great. They say they avoid harmful substances like partially hydrogenated oils, high-fructose corn syrup, and artificial additives. However, not all their products are certified organic or non-GMO, although they try to find such items when they can. So, while Hungryroot is somewhat selective in their sourcing process, they aren't fully transparent about sourcing or certification like some competing meal delivery services, and they aren't as committed to being organic.

Hassle-free canceling

Have you ever felt the dread of a subscription box arriving when you're not ready for it? Hungryroot understands that feeling and offers a solution as flexible as your ever-changing schedule. With options to skip deliveries or pause for 4, 6, or 8 weeks, Hungryroot puts you in the driver's seat of your subscription. Canceling is a breeze too, with just a click and a reason; you're free from the usual hassle of emailing customer service that other services might require. It's like they've read your mind - and your calendar. Isn't that a refreshing change?

Insulated boxes keep your food fresh

Your Hungryroot delivery arrives between 8 am and 9 pm, but the exact time can vary due to factors like carrier routes and shipping volume. This means your delivery time might change from week to week. Unpack those insulated boxes quickly, though. They're designed to keep your food chilled for hours, but nothing beats a prompt tuck into the fridge.

Mostly recyclable packaging

Now, let's talk green - not just in your salads, but in your packaging too. Hungryroot's shipping materials are recyclable, so the box, food protector, and paper cooler can join your regular cardboard and paper recycling. The ice packs? Snip a corner, drain the non-toxic gel, and recycle the plastic. Got Enviro Ice? Congratulations, you've just become a plant's best friend - it doubles as plant food. However, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Some customers have raised concerns about the use of single-use plastics and the lack of recycling labels or numbers on certain containers.

Scores high on dependability

Hungryroot seems to have mastered the recipe for customer satisfaction with a robust 4.4 "excellent" rating on Trustpilot and an "A-” from the BBB, reflecting the experiences of a satisfied vegan clientele. It's not just about the food; it's the entire package, from customer service to the quality of ingredients, that's winning hearts.

Best variety for vegans

Customers rave about the variety and taste, especially praising how well Hungryroot caters to vegan diets with creative, protein-rich, and tasty meal options. The service isn't just feeding stomachs; it's feeding curiosity by introducing customers to new foods and recipes, making the culinary journey an exciting adventure. The full-size grocery items are a hit too, eliminating the all-too-common issue of weird portion sizes.

Customer service beats competitors

However, no service is without its hiccups. A mix-up with feta instead of vegan tzatziki and the occasional missing ingredient indicate there's still a smidge of room for improvement in the logistics department. But where Hungryroot truly shines is in its customer service. With rapid responses via email and text and a team ready to make things right, they show a commitment to customer care that's as fresh as their produce.

#1 recommendation for vegan meal delivery

In a market flooded with options, Hungryroot stands out as a particularly savory choice for vegans and anyone looking for quality, convenience, and a dash of culinary creativity. So, ready to spice up your meal routine? It seems Hungryroot might just be the secret ingredient you've been looking for. We give them our highest ranking of 5 stars.

Mosaic

• Price per serving: Starts at $5.99 for breakfast; $9.99 for dinners
• Days of food: Up to 18 meals per box
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Breakfasts, dinners
• Calories per meal: 460
• Number of vegan meals: 30+
• Prep time: A few minutes to an hour to heat

Ever found yourself in that all-too-common dilemma of wanting to eat healthily but just not having the time or energy? Well, Matt and Sam, the dynamic duo behind Mosaic, were right there with you. Back in 2019, these two food enthusiasts, one a flexitarian and the other an omnivore, embarked on a mission to create meals that are as nurturing to the planet as they are to our bodies. They recognized the gap in the market for meals that are both veggie-centric and convenient, without sacrificing the taste that would satisfy any omnivore's appetite. The result? Mosaic Foods, a Public Benefit Corporation that's not just selling meals but promoting a plant-centric lifestyle.

Meals by Food Network chefs

Mosaic distinguishes itself by spotlighting the talent behind their meals, particularly with Chef Christine. With a background that includes working on Food Network favorites like the Barefoot Contessa and The Pioneer Woman, Christine brings a dash of celebrity culinary expertise to your dinner table. Knowing that a chef with such esteemed credentials is behind each recipe makes every Mosaic dish more than just a meal - it's a culinary experience crafted by a proven expert. Now that's something to savor.

Transparent pricing

Mosaic's approach is a breath of fresh air in the meal delivery world. You can explore their offerings freely with just an email and zip code, no billing information required upfront. This transparency extends to their pricing too. They've managed to make a vegan diet, often seen as pricey, much more accessible. Breakfasts start at a modest $5.99, while lunches and dinners begin at $9.99. For those looking to stock up, orders over $100 ship free; otherwise, it's a $7.99 fee per delivery.

Oatmeal for breakfast

Choosing your meals is just as straightforward. After entering your details, you select from 6, 12, or 18 items per box, with greater savings for larger quantities. The real fun begins when you pick your meals. With categories like veggie bowls, family meals, pizzas, soups, and oat bowls, there's enough to pique interest, though the family meals section might feel a bit limited with its casserole-style offerings.

Not the most variety we've seen

While Mosaic offers a total of 36 vegan meals across all sections, some customers might find the variety lacking, particularly in the family meals section. The absence of more diverse and fun options like vegan taco night might leave some longing for more. One customer mentioned that they've been using Mosaic for a while, but the menu offerings haven't changed, and they're craving some new options. However, the portion sizes are generally satisfying. The single-serving veggie bowls are perfect for one, packed with protein and fiber to fuel your day. Family meals weigh in at 2.5 pounds, catering well to two adults and a child, or as a substantial entrée paired with a DIY side for larger families.

Family dinners require an hour in the oven

Mosaic understands that the modern pace of life doesn't always allow for hours spent in the kitchen, which is why they've made meal prep virtually effortless. Their dedicated chefs meticulously peel, chop, season, and roast all ingredients by hand, ensuring quality and taste without any work on your part. Imagine skipping the shopping, cooking, and cleaning, and instead, enjoying fully-prepared meals delivered in recyclable packaging. Most of their plant-based delights, including the veggie bowls and soups, are ready in 8 minutes or less in the microwave, with skillet options available for those without one. The family meals require a bit more time, cooking in about an hour in the oven, but the instructions are clear and straightforward. Even the oat bowls are ready in a snap, microwavable in under 3 minutes. With Mosaic, delicious, healthy eating isn't just possible; it's quick and utterly convenient.

No junk or gunk

At Mosaic, every meal is a testament to their commitment to health and satisfaction, regardless of whether it's vegetarian or wholly vegan. Understanding the concerns about "junk food veganism," Mosaic takes pride in its use of hearty, whole, and natural ingredients. Their meals shun synthetic additives, instead brimming with farm-fresh produce, real fruits and veggies, and hearty whole grains. A typical Mosaic meal is a balanced nutritional ensemble, typically containing around 460 calories, 16g of protein, 64g of carbohydrates, and 9g of fats. This careful calibration ensures you're fueling your body with what it needs, without the gunk. For those curious about the specifics, ingredient lists are readily available on the website and product packaging.

Great care taken to exclude trace animal products

Transparency is key at Mosaic. They meticulously label their meals, distinguishing between vegan and vegetarian options. Their vegan meals are rigorously vetted to exclude not just obvious animal products but also subtler ones like certain sugars or syrups processed with animal products. Even in a kitchen that prepares both vegan and non-vegan meals, strict protocols are in place to eliminate any risk of cross-contamination, ensuring that when you choose a vegan meal, it's genuinely 100% vegan. While not fully organic, Mosaic strives to incorporate organic and local ingredients wherever possible, furthering their commitment to quality and environmental sustainability. For any questions or deeper insights into their sourcing, they welcome direct inquiries via email.

Try a single box without committing to a subscription

You're free to skip a delivery or cancel your subscription anytime without penalties, which is a breath of fresh air in a world of rigid meal plans. While they're still working on a one-time order option via their website, they've opened a direct line through email for those interested in a no-strings-attached trial. The Customer Portal simplifies adjusting your meal frequency and plan size, making personalization hassle-free. However, a note of caution: while cancellation is penalty-free, it does require an email exchange, which is unnecessarily inconvenient where a simple click should suffice.

They may not deliver to your area

Mosaic currently caters to major metro areas on the East and West coasts, with ambitions to broaden their reach. You don't need to be home to receive your order; the meals are packed with dry ice, ensuring they stay frozen until you can transfer them to your freezer. Plus, orders over $100 ship for free, adding an extra incentive for bulk purchases.

Recyclable packaging

Mosaic Foods takes its commitment to sustainability seriously, not just in the food they offer but in how it's presented to the world. Their packaging is a testament to this, boasting 100% recyclability or construction from post-consumer recycled fiber. The company's detailed recycling instructions on their "Sustainability” page, accompanied by charming watercolor illustrations, guide you through the process, making you feel good about doing your part for the planet. The plastic liners in the boxes have drawn some customer concern, but they serve the practical purpose of containing dry ice leakage, offering a slightly more eco-friendly solution than individual plastic-wrapped gel-based ice packs.

Low-risk to try them out

When it comes to discounts, Mosaic Foods takes a more understated approach compared to its competitors. You won't find any flashy, large discounts plastered on their homepage. However, they do offer a sweet deal where you can earn $20 off when you refer a friend who uses your referral code. It's a nice little perk that rewards you for spreading the word. Moreover, their satisfaction guarantee and the option to purchase a one-off box without committing to a subscription make it a relatively low-risk choice financially. It's a subtle yet effective strategy that prioritizes customer confidence over flashy sales tactics.

Satisfaction guaranteed

In the realm of customer service, Mosaic Foods shines brightly. Their 100% satisfaction guarantee is a bold commitment to quality and customer happiness, a rare find in the vegan meal delivery service industry. This promise is supported by their high Trustpilot rating, with nearly 1,000 reviews averaging 4.8 stars. While some customers have noted occasional inconsistencies in taste and heating, these instances are outliers amidst widespread praise. Particularly noteworthy is the almost unanimous commendation of their responsive and extremely helpful customer service, setting them apart in a market where service can make or break the experience.

A thumbs up from us

Wrapping it all up, Mosaic Foods is doing a lot right, especially when it comes to taking care of their customers. If they deliver to your area, they're definitely worth a try. They might not have the widest range of dishes just yet, but what they do, they do with care and quality. With their customer-first approach and easygoing way to try their meals, they're a solid choice for anyone curious about tasty, plant-based eating with the bonus of top-notch support.

Green Chef

• Price per serving: Starts at $11.49
• Days of food: Up to 6, depending on family size
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner): Mainly dinner; add-ons for breakfast and lunch
• Calories per meal: 600-800
• Number of vegan meals: 4 recipes a week
• Prep time: 30 minutes

Green Chef, started in 2014 in Boulder, Colorado, is known for being the first meal kit company to be certified both organic and gluten-free. They offer different kinds of meal kits for various diets, including vegan, all using organic ingredients that support a healthy and eco-friendly lifestyle.

Some prep necessary

Green Chef's meal kits are designed to make cooking straightforward and enjoyable. The box arrives with many ingredients already prepped, saving you the time and hassle of wrestling with a whole pumpkin or figuring out how to zest a lemon. While some basic cooking skills like dicing, chopping, peeling, and grating are still needed, Green Chef makes these tasks more manageable with recipe cards. Detailed, with step-by-step instructions, they come with timing and visual cues to guide even the most culinary-challenged among us. Most Green Chef meals are ready in about 30 minutes.

Free consultation with nutritionist

For those who get a kick out of discussing quinoa's protein content, Green Chef's dietitians are just a phone call away. They offer free 20-minute nutrition coaching sessions, perfect for tailoring your meals to your dietary needs.

Customize your plan and set goals

Starting out at Green Chef begins with selecting the plant-based plan. (Their lineup also includes Mediterranean, Gut & Brain Health, Calorie Smart, Quick & Easy, Protein Packed, Plant Based, Keto, and Gluten Free plans.) Then you'll navigate through a series of choices, selecting your dietary needs like high protein or low added sugar. After that, you set your goals, like eating healthier, saving money, or adding some zest to your cooking repertoire.

Flexible serving amounts

Green Chef offers plans for 2, 4, or 6 servings, with varying meal frequencies: for a duo, you can opt for 3 or 4 meals per week. If you're feeding a family or group of four, choose from 2, 3, or 4 meals weekly. And for larger groups or families of six, there's the option of 3 or 4 meals per week. For solo diners, the Dinner for 2 Plan could be a nifty next-day lunch solution with the leftovers.

They won't tell you how much a meal costs

When it comes to understanding costs, Green Chef plays a bit hard to get. You'll need to enter your real email and billing information to see the meal prices and total cost in your cart. While they're coy about their official per-serving costs, third-party reviews suggest prices range from $11.49 to $13.49 per serving. This places Green Chef in the mid-to-high range compared to other vegan meal delivery services. We did spot a discount offer: get 60% off, your first box ships free, and enjoy 20% off for the first two months.

Premium meal option

Green Chef also offers a special premium meal each week, providing an upgrade with premium proteins and ingredients - although they don't make it easy to tell what this means for vegans. For an extra $6.99 to $9.99 per serving, you can treat yourself to this luxurious dining experience.

See what's on offer this week

Curious about what's cooking at Green Chef? You can sneak a peek at their weekly menu online. However, this preview is limited to the current week's offerings.

Hard to find the vegan recipes (without signing up)

Green Chef claims over 80 weekly menu items on one page, but on the actual menu page, you find only 47 recipes, and there's no easy way to filter for vegan dishes. You end up clicking through pictures to spot the "Vegan" label, which can be frustrating. It's a bit like trying to find a four-leaf clover in a field of standard greens. Another page on their site says the actual number of unique vegan recipes available per week is only four.

Delicious dishes

Despite the navigation challenge, the vegan options are hidden gems. Take the Green Goddess Sandwiches - a hefty 910 calories with 18 grams of protein. It's a reminder that vegan doesn't automatically mean low-cal, but boy, does it sound scrumptious. Then there's the Braised Chickpeas with Tomatoes & Kale (690 calories, 21g protein) and Maple Cauliflower Power Bowls (740 calories, 16g protein).

Adjectives so good you can taste them

One thing's for sure, Green Chef knows how to dress up a description. Take those veggie-packed ciabattas from earlier - they're not just sandwiches, they're "architectural” marvels of squash and bell pepper, smothered in an herb miso-tahini sauce that's an apparent cheeky wink at the classic green goddess dressing. And those fries? "Elevated” with a sprinkle of applewood-smoked sea salt for an extra dash of fancy.

USDA-certified organic

If you like to know exactly where your food comes from, Green Chef might not be the ultimate gossip in the organic produce world, but they're not secretive either. While Green Chef doesn't name-drop their farms like some of their competitors, they do assure us that their sources are sustainable. They're a USDA certified organic company, so you can trust that their ingredients aren't just tasty, but they're also on good terms with Mother Nature.

Recyclable materials

Your box will arrive between 8 am and 8 pm on your chosen delivery day, from Monday to Saturday. If you're a 9-to-5er, they'll try to get your box to a commercial address before the 5 o'clock whistle. No need for a signature - your box will be chillin' at your doorstep, waiting for you to come home. Every bit of packaging is made from recyclable materials like corrugated cardboard, plant-based insulators, and various types of plastics - even the ice packs can be drained and recycled.

Shipping costs $9.99 per box

Green Chef has a straightforward approach to shipping costs: they charge a flat fee of $9.99 per box for all shipping and handling. It's important to note that this fee is per box, not per delivery. So, if you're someone who orders in bulk or likes to stock up with multiple boxes in a week, keep in mind that each box will carry its own shipping charge. This is different from some other services that might charge per delivery regardless of the number of boxes. If you're a heavy user of their service, just be sure to factor this into your budgeting - nobody likes a surprise when it comes to bills.

Cancel from your account

Green Chef's subscription boasts flexibility, but user experiences indicate the cancellation process might be less straightforward than advertised. Where it should be as simple as clicking a button in your account settings and stating your reason (”it's not you, it's me”) to be single and ready to mingle with other meal services, some customers have complained about navigating through "10 menus and then chatting with someone”. If you're just looking for a short break, you can skip up to four weeks by hitting the "Skip Week” button under "My Menu,” but make sure you do it 5 days before your delivery at the latest, or you'll be dining on an unexpected meal kit.

Sustainability is a priority

Green Chef stands out in the meal delivery service industry with its strong commitment to sustainability. They power their operations entirely with renewable electricity and impressively offset 100% of their carbon emissions, covering everything from shipment to doorstep delivery. By opting for Green Chef, you're not just getting a meal kit; you're contributing to a greener planet. They claim that choosing their service can reduce your food waste by at least 23% compared to traditional grocery shopping. They boldly label themselves as "the most sustainable meal kit," highlighting their dedication to eco-conscious practices in an industry where packaging and waste are significant concerns.

Acquired by HelloFresh

Green Chef, a subsidiary of HelloFresh since its 2018 acquisition, maintains a commendable "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, the parent company, HelloFresh, has had its share of issues, and that casts a shadow of uncertainty over Green Chef's operations. Will the organic apple fall far from the tree? That remains to be seen. Green Chef's performance in the public eye, however, is a mixed bag. The U.S. version of Green Chef boasts a decent 3.8 rating on Trustpilot, based on nearly 3000 reviews. Across the pond, the UK version lags slightly with a 3.4 rating.

Complaints about lack of variety for vegan and gluten-free diets

Customer reviews offer a real taste of what Green Chef serves up. One vegan and gluten-free customer appreciates the convenience but laments the limited selection fitting their dietary needs. "Variety is the spice of life," they might say, "so where's the spice?" Another reviewer applauds the healthy options and the impeccable freshness of ingredients - no rubber-like carrots here, folks. However, they point out a significant downside for single diners or those with differing diets: the two-meal minimum per selected meal could turn dinner time into a negotiation table.

Mixed experiences with ingredient freshness

HelloFresh loyalists trying out Green Chef have mixed feelings. One customer, transitioning to veganism, found the produce sometimes lacking in freshness, a stark contrast to their HelloFresh experience. Refunds will be provided, but if the issue persists, the customer will be left hanging between hope and disappointment. On the other hand, a long-time subscriber praised Green Chef's reliable delivery and fresh produce but notes a lack of variety in meal options. For them, familiarity breeds contempt, at least when it comes to weekly recipes.

Some think it's too expensive

Lastly, a critique on value for money raises a red flag. One customer felt that Green Chef's offerings are overpriced, especially considering the effort still required in meal preparation. We wish we could weigh in more on value for money, but Green Chef isn't forthcoming with their entire vegan menu, so we can't say much about the variety or sources of protein in their meals. Are they relying on budget-friendly proteins like beans, or are they opting for pricier vegan options like seitan? This information could significantly influence the perceived value, especially for those closely monitoring their protein intake or seeking more gourmet vegan ingredients.

Decent overall

On the positive side, it's great that Green Chef focuses on being eco-friendly, with organic ingredients and packaging that's good for the planet. They also make cooking easier with pre-prepped ingredients and clear recipe cards, plus they offer free advice from nutritionists. But, there are some downsides. Their vegan dishes are limited to four each week, and it's not always clear how much you'll be paying until you're pretty far into the signup process. While the premium meals and variety of plans sound good, the hassle of canceling your subscription and the extra shipping costs might be a turn-off for some. All in all, Green Chef offers tasty, eco-friendly meals, but whether it's worth it depends on your budget and how much you value convenience and sustainability.

Sprinly

• Price per serving: Starts at $18
• Days of food: between 6 and 19 meals a week
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals (breakfast/lunch/dinner): Dinners
• Calories per meal: 300-650
• Number of vegan meals: 6 new per week
• Prep time: 3 minutes in microwave

Sprinly's story begins with founders Mary and Ray, who, inspired by their global backpacking adventures and a passion for healthy living, left their corporate jobs to launch a fully vegan meal delivery service in 2016. With the mission to provide convenient, nutritious meals, Sprinly seems to embody a dedication to health and happiness, sending out handwritten notes with initial deliveries as a personal touch.

No paywall

We appreciate that you can view the menu for the current week and upcoming weeks without creating an account here. Many meal delivery services use predatory tactics like hiding their menus behind a screen requiring your billing info so they can charge you later without your knowledge, but it doesn't seem like Sprinly does.

Steep pricing

First, select your plan: 6 ($109), 12 ($199), or 18 ($289) meals a week. If you did the math, you'll know that the 6-meal plan breaks down to a whopping $18 per meal - and yes, it only contains one serving in each one. Unfortunately, we didn't find any discounts on the website to soften the blow, but it might be a small consolation that shipping charges are seemingly included in your subscription cost. Your next step will be providing your email and selecting your meals.

Some think the menu is repetitive

Sprinly's weekly menu rotation seems to dance on the fine line between variety and repetition. While they tout a selection of six new meals each week, some customers have noted quick repeats in Sprinly's offerings. We're not all that impressed by just six options ourselves - there are services in our review with thousands of vegan recipes at your fingertips each week.

The flavors might take some getting used to

The culinary experience at Sprinly appears to be a blend of hits and misses. The carrot "bacon” has emerged as a star, winning over taste buds. However, not all dishes receive unanimous applause. Some feedback points to meals being bland or overpowered by strong, pungent flavors from condiments and dressings, masking the natural taste of the food.

Complaints about carb and fiber contents are probably unjustified

For those new to a vegan diet, Sprinly might be an adjustment. A common critique we found on their Trustpilot page involves the high fiber and carb content of meals, which, while healthful, has caused digestive discomfort for some (to put it delicately). This shows how important it is to make gradual changes to your diet, especially if you're switching from a diet that includes meat and dairy.

Just dinners

For those wondering what a day with Sprinly might look like, the service focuses primarily on lunch and dinner options. Typical offerings range from Bean-Packed Marinara with Cashew Parmesan (464 cal) to a tasty Mac and "Cheese" with Plant-Based "Bacon" Bits (502 cal), and a refreshing Citrus Detox Salad with oranges, beets, vegetables, and pumpkin seeds (384 cal). The absence of breakfast and snack items could be a downside for some looking for a comprehensive vegan meal delivery solution, though.

Heat and enjoy

For those of us with more on our plates than time to cook, Sprinly offers a godsend: fully prepared meals. Just heat for 3 minutes and eat. This no-prep approach promises to give back hours in your day, potentially making the high cost more palatable for busy individuals.

Sprinly is mindful of sodium

Sprinly emphasizes nutrient-dense whole foods in their meal offerings, ranging from 300-650 calories per dish. They prioritize nutritious ingredients over strict calorie counting so that the calories you consume come from healthy sources like vegetables, nuts, and legumes. With a keen eye on sodium content, Sprinly aims to keep it within a healthy range of 200-500 mg per serving.

Certified organic, uncertified gluten-free

Quality is not just a buzzword for Sprinly; it's their top priority. They consistently source USDA-certified organic ingredients, making exceptions only in rare cases like adverse weather affecting crops. However, they're a bit hush-hush about their exact sources. For gluten-free vegans, there's good news: Sprinly's kitchen is a gluten-free zone, although not yet certified. This means you can enjoy your meals without the worry of accidental gluten sneak-ins.

Pick your meals by Tuesday night

No one enjoys the panic of missing a deadline. That's where Sprinly's thoughtful approach really shines. If you forget to pick your dishes by Tuesday at 11:59PM EST, they won't leave you hanging. Instead, they'll send a mix of meals from that week's menu to keep your fridge happily stocked.

You can cancel or skip anytime

We like that you don't have to contact Sprinly's support in the event you decide to cancel your plan. That's another predatory tactic some companies use that Sprinly does not. You can easily skip a week or pause your plan directly from your account; no need to jump through hoops or deal with customer service. With the ability to toggle off deliveries up to four weeks in advance and no hidden fees or penalties for making changes, Sprinly offers a hassle-free, commitment-free experience that fits neatly into your busy lifestyle. It's a straightforward, user-friendly system that puts you in control, making it simpler than ever to enjoy healthy, plant-based meals on your own terms.

Packaging sometimes spills or shatters

Some customer reviews mention the need for tighter packaging. On one occasion, this oversight tragically led to spilled tomatillo salsa that a customer was disappointed they didn't get to try. In more than one case, the plastic containers actually broke, and customers accidentally consumed plastic shards.

No artificial preservatives

Sprinly avoids artificial preservatives, so they recommend enjoying the meals within 5-6 days of delivery, with some dishes marked to be eaten earlier for optimal freshness. While you can freeze meals like soups or curries if you can't eat them in time, it's not recommended as it can affect the quality. Some customers have expressed feeling pressured to consume meals quickly due to the "eat me first" labels, so if you don't like being told what to do and preservatives are no big deal, you might prefer a different vegan meal delivery service.

Reuse your ice packs

Sprinly takes a proactive stance on sustainability and social responsibility, intertwining environmental consciousness with its health-centric mission. They encourage customers to participate in eco-friendly practices by providing packaging that's largely recyclable or compostable, from 100% recycled cardboard boxes to biodegradable plastic bags and recyclable ice packs.

Sprinly supports a variety of nonprofits

Beyond packaging, Sprinly's commitment extends to broader societal impacts. Aside from the obvious environmental stewardship demonstrated by offering plant-based meals, which inherently have a lower carbon footprint, they've taken the initiative to employ refugees and people with disabilities. They've also made substantial donations of organic produce and PPE during crises like COVID-19. Additionally, Sprinly supports various nonprofits dedicated to a range of causes from nutrition insecurity and ocean conservation to civil rights and plastic waste reduction. We can really appreciate this comprehensive approach to making a positive impact beyond just meal delivery.

Great rating from Trustpilot and the BBB

Sprinly seems to stand out in the crowd with a solid 4-star rating from around 500 reviews. Sure, this might not seem like a lot when compared to competitors racking up thousands, but a consistently good rating is nothing to scoff at. Their "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau further solidifies their reputation as a trustworthy service. They've introduced a happiness guarantee policy; however, it's worth noting the specifics - they like to make things right, but the wording implies they won't do anything if your issue is a meal going bad outside the 5- or 6-day freshness window. So, if you're the type who might forget about a meal in the fridge, this is something to keep in mind.

Not perfect, but we'd keep them in mind

We're not thrilled about the plastic packaging ending up in people's food, and when it comes to cost, Sprinly doesn't shy away from a heftier price tag, standing at about $8-$9 more per meal than many of their competitors. They might include the cost of shipping, but that barely makes a dent. However, they position themselves as a fully vegan company, which is a significant commitment in the world of meal delivery services, and we can see that as a reason you may opt to pay a little more than for services that have plans that include animal products. Sprinly's website is easy to browse, the menu isn't hidden behind billing info barriers, and you can cancel whenever, so they don't seem to be as predatory or haphazard as other companies, which earns them points. In conclusion, if your priority is to support a fully vegan operation and you're willing to pay a premium for ethical eating, Sprinly offers a compelling, though not flawless, option.

Bistro MD

• Price per serving: Starts at $13.56
• Days of food: 5 or 7
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Lunch/dinner
• Calories per meal: 220-330 on average
• Number of vegan meals: 25

Ever heard of BistroMD? Established in 2005, this meal delivery service carved a niche in weight loss by serving up dietitian-designed dishes straight to customer doorsteps. Recently, they rolled out a plan for vegans, too. Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle is no small feat. It's not just about avoiding animal products; it's about embracing a whole new way of eating that's both nutritious and delicious. However, at BistroMD, their team of chefs and registered dietitians has taken the burden off your shoulders with a vegan meal program that emphasizes whole foods, relies on plant protein, and is crafted using high-quality ingredients.

Filling meals that can help you lose weight

BistroMD offers several customizable weight loss plans, including options for healthy eating, diabetes-friendly, gluten-free, menopause-friendly, and, of course, vegan diets. Their vegan option provides a healthy balance of macronutrients and aims to provide filling meals with good protein and carb counts. While weight loss is not the main focus of the vegan program, it may still contribute to weight loss when combined with a healthy lifestyle and exercise. BistroMD meals are baked, steamed, and roasted rather than fried.

Not a budget-friendly option

The vegan program offered by BistroMD includes a plan for lunch and dinner, available for either 5 or 7 days a week. Unlike their other programs, breakfast is not included. For a week of lunches and dinners (14 meals), the cost is $189.95, which averages to about $13.56 per meal. While this is pricier than many meal kits that require prep, it's roughly the same as some pre-prepped meals from competitors.

Only 25 recipes

To check the available meals, go to the "Our Menu" page and select the "Vegan Program" from the dropdown. By clicking on the individual dishes, you can access ingredient and nutrition information. However, they offer only 25 options, which pales in comparison to one of our competitors who provides over 2,000 recipes. Nevertheless, if you're one of those people who intentionally enjoys eating the same thing every day, this won't be a dealbreaker for you. Some examples of what's for dinner: Vegan Bolognese Pasta with Tofu Ricotta (290 cal), African Peanut Stew (330 cal), and the Harissa Chickpea Power Bowl (460 cal). This last one has an impressive 20 grams of protein, so you'll stay full for longer. Nice!

Claims to have higher protein contents than competitors

According to BistroMD, other vegan meal delivery services may not provide enough protein, lack carb-conscious options, and may not effectively satisfy hunger. The average BistroMD meal contains 285 calories, with 28g of net carbs. It also provides an average of 13g of plant protein per meal, ranging from 6g to 20g. Additionally, each meal contains an average of 8g of fiber, 10g of healthy fats, and is sodium-controlled with less than 450 mg of sodium. Despite their claims about other services having less protein, though, we reviewed at least one service with higher protein contents.

Not totally transparent about ingredients to non-members

While you can find the basic macro breakdowns, BistroMD only provides full ingredient and nutrition information to its members. However, non-members can contact customer service for specific questions. Registered dietitians are also available to customers to assist with dietary needs, but we think this is probably more useful to those on weight loss plans.

Remove allergens from meal options

At BistroMD, you can customize your menu by excluding certain ingredients. To do this, go to "Manage Plan" in the main menu, then select "Meal Preferences". You can also email CustomerService@BistroMD.com to request the removal of specific ingredients or food allergens from your options.

Mostly organic, but not certified

BistroMD prides itself on using wholesome ingredients similar to what you might find in your own pantry. While they don't boast an all-organic lineup, they assert that their ingredients are sourced from responsible, local, family-owned farms. However, for those who prioritize certified organic ingredients, it's worth noting that there are other vegan meal delivery services with such credentials.

Ready to eat in under 5 minutes

BistroMD understands that convenience is key, especially for those with busy lifestyles. Their meals are designed to be ready in 5 minutes or less, so you can enjoy a warm, satisfying vegan meal with minimal preparation time. To heat BistroMD entrées, you can either microwave them following the instructions on the outer sleeve or use an oven by preheating it to 325°F and placing the contents in an oven-safe dish. The internal temperature should reach 165°F or higher before serving.

Easy to cancel or postpone

If you need to skip a week in your BistroMD subscription, simply go to the "Delivery Schedule" section in the top navigation and click the "Skip" button for the desired week. To cancel your subscription, log into your myBistroMD account, go to "Manage Plan," and click on "Update Plan." Scroll down until you find the cancel subscription link, and before clicking "Cancel Program," you can provide feedback if you'd like. If you need any assistance, feel free to contact customer support. Reactivating your account is also quick and easy at any time. BistroMD makes it hassle-free to manage your subscription without any unnecessary hoops to jump through.

Recyclable plastic trays

Like most vegan meal delivery services, BistroMD packages your meals in environmentally-friendly insulation and uses dry ice for cold shipping so your meals stay frozen for hours after delivery. BistroMD takes care to serve their individual meals in CPET plastic trays that are not only safe for microwave and oven use but also do not release BPA when heated. These trays, along with the plastic cover and cardboard sleeve, are all recyclable so you can enjoy your meals conveniently and also feel good about minimizing waste.

Shipping is $10 more than competitors

Each BistroMD delivery is subject to a shipping rate of $19.95, which is about $10 more than competing services. This is discouraging, considering their meal prices are already steeper than average. As far as discounts go, BistroMD offers a deal for 40% off and free shipping for your first box.

Good rating on Trustpilot, but an "F” from the BBB

BistroMD presents a mixed bag when it comes to customer service and overall reputation. Have you ever felt just... okay about a service? That's the vibe here. They've managed to secure a respectable 4.0 rating average from Trustpilot, based on around 600 reviews, which is not too shabby. But here's the kicker: their standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is an "F”. What's going on there, BistroMD?

A bit "meh”

Customers have reported a range of experiences, most finding themselves in a Goldilocks scenario where everything is just "okay.” Delivery is usually within a reasonable timeframe. The selection is modest, akin to what you might find elsewhere, but with a price tag that's a tad higher. The quality of the food seems to tip the scales back in favor, though. Staff interactions? Unremarkable. It's neither a red carpet experience nor a walk through the mud.

No snacks for the vegan (again)

Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the vegan plan. Because it was rolled out recently, we had a hard time finding many reviews for it. BistroMD's vegan offerings seem to have sprouted from customer demand, particularly from those enjoying their high-protein weight loss plans. But here's the catch: no breakfast options and a lack of vegan-friendly EATS (Essential and Tasty Snacks). It's like going to a party and finding out there are no snacks for you - something vegans are probably used to, but more disappointing coming from a specifically vegan meal delivery plan.

Nothing major wrong with it, but not a top choice

From all of the above, we get the impression that the vegan plan here might be more of an afterthought than a full-fledged member of the BistroMD family. It's there, it exists, but it doesn't quite sparkle with the same attention to detail as its siblings. So, if you're a plant-based eater looking for a meal delivery service, you might find the offerings here a bit underwhelming. Is BistroMD's attempt at vegan options a step in the right direction, or does it leave you craving more? The jury's still out on that one.

Fresh N Lean

• Price per serving: Starts at $11.16
• Days of food: 5 or 7
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
• Calories per meal: About 430
• Number of vegan meals: Over 100 a week

Founded in 2010, Fresh N Lean began when its brother-sister CEO duo began making nutritious dinners for their dad, and later, their whole neighborhood. It is now a meal delivery service that's all about making healthy eating easy for everyone. They're focused on providing fresh, organic, microwavable whole-food meals that are packed with energy and nourishment. While they are not a vegan company, they do have a vegan plan.

Homemade goodness delivered directly to you

Fresh N Lean prides itself on crafting your meals in Moosic, PA, with a personal touch and keen attention to detail. Once your delivery arrives, remember to store the meal packs in your refrigerator promptly. They'll maintain their freshness in the delivery box for 6-8 hours, or 1-3 hours during particularly warm days. For optimal taste, enjoy your meals straight from the refrigerator, where they can remain for 7-10 days post-delivery. Not ready to indulge just yet? Feel free to freeze them for later enjoyment, keeping them good for 6-8 weeks. Just allow 36-48 hours for thawing in your fridge to ensure the flavors are at their best.

Pure, natural, and wholesome

Fresh N Lean firmly rejects the use of excessively processed elements. They commit to non-GMO, FDA-compliant ingredients, boasting a vegan meal plan that's 99% organic. Every dish is crafted from the ground up, mimicking home cooking but on a larger scale. Frying is off the table; instead, their culinary masters specialize in baking, roasting, and steaming to ensure your meals are not only scrumptious but also brimming with nutritional value.

From 5 to 21 meals weekly

Fresh N Lean stands out by offering up to three meals daily, unlike many services that limit you to just dinner. The more meals you choose, the more you save per meal. To put things into perspective, let's look at the cost for 5 dinners per week: you're looking at $79.95, which breaks down to $15.99 for each meal. Ouch! But, when you jump to three meals a day, the price per meal falls to $11.16. That's more in line with competitors, though the total comes to $167.35 a week. Don't forget, Fresh N Lean is all about flexibility; you can pause deliveries for up to two weeks through your dashboard, perfect for those unexpected trips.

Get 30% off

We did spy a promotion of 30% off and free shipping, with a money-back guarantee. You can get 30% off your first week on any meal plan of healthy ready-to-eat meals.

Avoid allergens and disliked foods

Are you particular about your food choices? Fresh N Lean encourages you to try new flavors but allows for up to three exclusions in your meal plan to suit your tastes. If you have allergies, you're in luck; you can exclude as many allergens as you need, including Egg, Sesame, Dairy, Shellfish, Tree Nut, Soy, and Wheat. And for those on the vegan plan, you can rest easy knowing that at least three of these allergens will naturally be absent from your dishes.

Snacks cost extra

Further along in your selection process, you have the option to add more to your plan, including extra meals and snacks. Under the "Breakfast/Snacks" section, you'll find choices like Hearty Granola, Breakfast Muffins, Coconut Almond Buttercups, and a variety of flavored almonds, all priced between $2.99 and $4.99. If you're looking at the "Entree" and "Bulk And Sides" sections, you'll discover two rotating seafood meals and 16 ounces of seasoned salmon. Obviously, though, if you're a vegan, these seafood options won't fit your diet. That's a bit of a bummer, isn't it?

Set your menu every Tuesday

During the Review step, you'll spot the "Guaranteed To Deliver By" date for your initial delivery, which in our experience was set for about 11 days later. This date may vary once you input your shipping details. Fresh N Lean makes it a routine to reach out every Tuesday, prompting you to choose your meals for the upcoming week.

Detailed nutritional breakdowns with each meal

To preview your upcoming meals, head over to the "Weekly Menu" tab. Here, you'll want to select the "Standard Vegan" icon to filter for meals that fit your dietary preferences. For example, a day's menu could feature Mango Chia Pudding for breakfast (270 cal), a Lentil Power Bowl with Herb Roasted Potatoes for lunch (420 cal), and a Teriyaki Plant-Based Meatball Quinoa Bowl for dinner (480 cal). Fresh N Lean stands out by providing a quick overview of the protein and carbs in each dish, which is especially helpful for active vegans or weightlifters focused on meeting their nutritional goals. On average, a vegan meal from Fresh N Lean includes 19 grams of protein, 49 grams of carbs, 14 grams of fat, and 430 calories.

Inconsistencies in serving sizes

While Fresh N Lean generally offers a convenient meal service, some users, particularly those who are serious about bodybuilding, have noted inconsistencies in portion sizes. For instance, a customer on a non-vegan plan reported a significant 210-gram difference between two servings of the same Vodka Sauce Chicken Pasta. If you're meticulous about your protein intake, you might find yourself needing to double-check serving sizes with your own kitchen scale.

Effortless meal prep

With a simple click on any Fresh N Lean meal, you'll access a wealth of details including Nutrition Facts, ingredients, and how to prepare it. Embracing their goal to "take the hassle out of healthy eating," they make sure every meal is nearly ready to eat. Just make a few punctures in the plastic film atop the recyclable tray and microwave it for a couple of minutes. There's no need to stock up on extra ingredients or go through complicated steps, addressing a common complaint among customers of other meal services and streamlining your dining experience.

Complimentary shipping on larger orders.

When you spend more than $100, Fresh N Lean will ship your order for free. This offer softens the initial sticker shock of their prices, which are on the higher end compared to rivals. They also tempt new customers with a $20 discount on the first week's meals for those who opt into their marketing communications. While this deal is okay, remember, some competitors send you your first box for free plus additional discounts on subsequent orders.

Guaranteed satisfaction for 10 days

Not many meal delivery services offer a satisfaction guarantee, but Fresh N Lean does. What's the deal? Simply put, if you're not completely satisfied with your first purchase, they'll reimburse you up to $150 or the equivalent of 14 meals. However, you've got a 10-day window to make this decision. This guarantee provides a nice safety net, especially if you're trying out their service for the first time.

Customer received real meat instead of plant-based alternative

One customer's experience with cross contamination at Fresh N Lean paints a concerning picture. They ordered from the vegan plan, expecting plant-based meals, but received a meal with real chicken instead of a vegan substitute. The realization came after a few bites, leading to a dive into the trash for the packaging to confirm the mix-up. Fresh N Lean's response? A refund for the two mishandled meals and an explanation of "human error." This incident raises questions about the company's commitment to avoiding cross-contamination and is particularly perplexing given the company's claim of strict separation in their production facility to make sure that vegan meals are entirely free of animal products.

Not a gourmet meal

Some customers have complaints about the taste and texture of Fresh N Lean meals, finding it hard to enjoy what they've spent so much money on. While an advantage of a service like Fresh N Lean is how quickly your food is ready, microwaving everything in the same tray does mean you won't have as much distinction between textures as you would if you were slicing, dicing, and sautéing individual ingredients.

Fake meat might appear too often

Vegan customers sometimes complain about Fresh N Lean's over-reliance on fake meat products from brands like Impossible and Beyond, which is understandable especially when you consider this service's name implies the food you're eating will be, well, fresh. These fake meats might also be an issue for vegans watching their sodium intake.

Responsive customer support at Fresh N Lean

Fresh N Lean shines particularly in its customer service department. Many customers have highlighted their positive interactions, especially noting the swift and helpful live chat support, which is a welcome deviation from the typical chatbot frustrations. The company's quick reaction to delivery mishaps, offering prompt resolutions, further underlines their commitment to efficient service. At the time of this review, Fresh N Lean boasted a commendable 4.0 rating average on Trustpilot and an "A+” from the Better Business Bureau. That said, it's not all praise; while some customers report things like significant weight loss and enjoying the meals, others share less favorable experiences, mentioning meals close to expiration and unpalatable options that ended up in the trash.

Not the best for picky eaters

Determining the ideal Fresh N Lean patron is a bit of a puzzle. It's not the top pick for serious weightlifters due to inconsistent macro information, nor does it seem suited for the finicky eater, given some of the texture and flavor feedback. Perhaps it's best suited for those accustomed to microwave meals who are looking to make a healthier shift, assuming there's a spare $160 in their weekly budget. While Fresh N Lean doesn't trigger any major red flags for us, we suggest exploring some of our higher-rated meal services before settling down with this option.

Factor

• Price per serving: Starts at $10.99
• Days of food: 6-18 meals a week
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Dinner and add-ons
• Calories per meal: 400-600
• Number of vegan meals: Factor says 35+; customers report 3-4 a week

Commonly known as Factor, Factor75 is a meal delivery service offering ready-to-eat, nutritious meals crafted by professional chefs. The origin of their name lies in the philosophy that 75% of your physical appearance and well-being is determined by your diet. Established in 2013, they've quickly become prominent in the realm of health-focused cuisine. This rise to fame didn't go unnoticed, capturing the attention of HelloFresh, a leading name in the meal-kit industry, which acquired Factor in 2020.

Complimentary wellness boosts for newcomers

Factor greets newcomers warmly, offering generous discounts. Upon visiting their website, we were presented with a tempting deal: 50% off the first month and an additional 20% off the following month for subscribing to text updates. They also promised complimentary wellness shots for the duration of our subscription.

Servings start at $10.99

Venture over to the "Our Plans" section and click on "Vegan & Veggie" to kick things off. Here, you'll find options ranging from 6 to 18 meals per week. Unlike other services that ask about the number of diners, this method sidesteps any potential for number-crunching headaches. Opting for 8 meals totals $103.92, breaking down to $12.99 per serving. Scaling up to 18 meals nudges the price per serving down to $10.99. It's worth noting, though, this rate is slightly steeper compared to some rivals, with the most affordable competitor on our list dishing out meals at just $4 each. After picking your plan, you'll enter your email and payment details, and then comes the meal selection. Here's the catch: there isn't a dedicated "vegan" plan, so you'll need to comb through the weekly offerings to spot your vegan-friendly choices. It's a bit of a letdown, isn't it? It might make vegans feel a bit like an afterthought rather than a priority.

Supposedly fresh, not frozen

Factor's offerings, put together by expert chefs, are ready-to-eat with zero preparation required from you. Factor claims that their meals are always fresh and never frozen and only need to be quickly heated in the microwave before enjoying. This vegan meal delivery service claims to provide over 35 vegan/vegetarian meals and more than 45 additional items.

Challenges in spotting vegan choices

However, it becomes difficult to find vegan options on the general menu tab of their website. There is no filter for meatless meals, so vegans are left to guess at their dining prospects. Although vegan items are supposed to be marked in the meal title, we only found a couple of options during the week we looked. This scarcity leads us to speculate that maybe the dishes you'll be eating as a vegan are just the regular items on the menu but with plant-based protein substitutes - but Factor does not clarify.

Supplier details are unspecific

Factor touts its ingredients as being procured from a "network of trusted partners." However, this description doesn't quite cut it for us. They stop short of providing specific names or locations of these suppliers, unlike some competitors who are more transparent. This leaves us questioning the identity of these so-called trusted partners and why we should extend our trust to them. Factor asserts that their plant-based offerings are free from antibiotics, refined sugars, or GMOs and remain fresh for up to 7 days post-delivery.

Customer support dodges the hard questions

There's a murmur of skepticism among some Reddit users regarding the authenticity and quality of Factor's ingredients. While many reviews commend Factor for its use of organic and grass-fed components, a customer voiced concerns that since HelloFresh's acquisition, the quality might have dipped. Inquiries directed to Factor seeking clarity on their ingredient sources were met with evasive and unconvincing responses. It took a phone call for a customer service representative to reluctantly admit that while the vegetables might be organic, the meat is often of a "low quality." This might be somewhat reassuring for vegans, but it's hardly a comforting thought overall.

Pausing and skipping: a breeze

Adjusting your Factor deliveries is a straightforward process. Whether you're using their website or app, you just need to log in, pinpoint the week you wish to modify, and hit the "Edit Delivery" button. From there, skipping a week is as simple as selecting the "Skip Week" option. The added bonus is that you're not billed for any weeks you decide to skip, offering the flexibility many seek. Do remember, though, that this pause only applies to the current week, and your regular deliveries will kick back in the next week unless you intervene again.

Cancellation: a bit of a hassle

On the flip side, when it comes to canceling your Factor account, the process isn't as user-friendly. You can't just toggle off your account in the settings; instead, you must contact Factor's customer support directly, either through email or phone, to request account deactivation. This requirement earns a stern eyebrow raise from us. After all, why should a service have the final say over your personal and financial details? It's a point of contention for many and something to keep in mind if you're considering signing up.

Elusive shipping costs

Navigating Factor's website for essential details can be a bit of a treasure hunt. A prime example is their shipping fees. Only by delving into the depths of their Terms and Conditions did we unearth a figure of "approximately $9.99" for delivery charges. However, this seems to fluctuate, with some customers reporting a slightly higher fee of $10.99.

Groceries stay cold

Factor ensures your meals stay chilled until at least 10 pm on delivery day, thanks to insulated liners and gel packs. This means you can clock extra hours at work without fretting over your food spoiling. Deliveries, managed by third-party couriers, generally land before 9 pm. If you're out, they'll leave your package at the door. Inclement weather? They'll aim to deliver as soon as it's safe. And if your place is somehow unreachable, expect a personal outreach from Factor to arrange an alternate drop-off point or date to suit your schedule.

Looks good on paper

Factor holds a solid 4.0 rating average on Trustpilot from over 46,000 reviews and an "A+” from the Better Business Bureau. But what's the real scoop from the vegan community? There's a clear desire for more distinct vegan options. One customer expressed frustration, noting that vegetarian and vegan dishes aren't separated into distinct vegan plans, which leads to confusion and dissatisfaction during the meal selection process, especially when ingredients aren't up to vegan standards. Misleading advertising about the freshness (with some items arriving frozen) and preparation time of meals (taking longer than 2 minutes in the microwave) has also left some customers feeling misled.

Doesn't satisfy vegans

A particularly telling experience came from a vegan who faced challenges with non-vegan choices being mixed into their selection. After discovering the ingredients weren't strictly vegan, they attempted to cancel their membership, only to be charged and sent the non-vegan meals anyway. To add insult to injury, customer service was less than sympathetic, denying a refund and demonstrating a lack of understanding of vegan needs. This, combined with the significant price tag, left the customer feeling undervalued and disappointed.

Try one of our top services instead

In short, Factor could be doing better. They're not very clear about shipping costs and where they get their ingredients from, which is concerning. It would also be much better if they clearly showed which meals are vegan and kept them separate from the vegetarian ones. Hearing that some vegans got dairy in their orders doesn't help their case. Plus, the fact that you can't cancel your subscription without going through customer support is a real drawback. With all these issues in mind, it might be wise to look at other services before settling on Factor.

Purple Carrot

• Price per serving: Starts at $11
• Days of food: Up to 10 2-serving meals weekly
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and extras
• Calories per meal: 500-800
• Number of vegan meals: Unspecified, but all Purple Carrot meals are vegan
• Prep time: 5-45 minutes, depending on kit

Purple Carrot, founded in 2014 by Andy Levitt, is a pioneering plant-based meal kit delivery service based in Massachusetts. They offer meal kits and pre-prepared options to suit every time constraint. For ethical vegans short on time, it's comforting to know that 100% vegan companies like Purple Carrot exist, allowing them to enjoy a variety of delicious, ethically-sourced meals without compromising their morals.

Mix and match Prepared Meals and Meal Kits

Who loves a one-size-fits-all? Not us, and probably not you. Purple Carrot gets that, so you have options when you set up your plan. First, decide between a Meal Kit, where you're the chef, or Prepared Meals, where you just pop it in the microwave to play the part of the eager eater. For the Meal Kits, choose between 2 or 4 servings per meal and 3 or 4 meals per week. If time isn't your friend, go for the prepared meals with 2 servings each and pick from 6, 8, or 10 meals weekly. Once you activate your subscription, you can also mix and match Meal Kits and Prepared Meals. So, you have the flexibility to choose a combination of both options according to your needs.

Not cheap

With Purple Carrot, the price you pay varies depending on your meal choices. For example, selecting 4 meal kit meals per week with two servings each costs $106 before any applied discounts. The cost per serving begins at $11 for meal kits and $13 for prepared meals, which is relatively high compared to some other vegan meal delivery services in our review.

$25 off

A $25 coupon is available during the checkout process, providing some slight savings on your initial order. You'll also get free shipping on the first week, but a $10 charge for all subsequent deliveries under $100. If you're considering sending a Purple Carrot subscription as a gift, expect to spend between $70-$90 per box.

Less Prep meals are ready in as few as 5 minutes

Purple Carrot offers a range of meal choices to meet different needs and time limitations. Less Prep recipes aim to streamline your cooking, offering meals that can be ready in 25 minutes or less with helpful shortcuts like pre-chopped veggies or ready-made sauces. For those who enjoy the full cooking experience, regular Meal Kits involve more hands-on preparation, allowing you to chop, season, and sauté at your leisure. And for the busiest days, Purple Carrot's Prepared Meals offer the quickest solution with just a few minutes in the microwave needed. Purple Carrot also offers "Extras" for breakfast and lunch that are ready in 5-15 minutes.

All three meals

No need to hand over your email or billing info just to browse the menu - a nice touch for those just window-shopping. A typical day with a Meal Kit plan could look like lemon poppy seed pancakes for breakfast (460 cal), a caprese grilled cheese for lunch (490 cal), and peanut pad Thai noodles with charred green beans and lime for dinner (680 cal).

They don't say how many recipes they offer

Is Purple Carrot repetitive? How often do the meals rotate? How many are on the menu at any given time? The only thing they tell us is that the menu changes weekly, but they don't say how many recipes they have in their archives or how often new ones are added to your delivery options. We haven't seen complaints about meals getting repetitive, at least.

Not all organic

Purple Carrot claims to prioritize the use of non-GMO ingredients and to be committed to enhancing the quality of their supplies. They do have a variety of non-produce items like nut milks, tempeh, tofu, and vegan cheeses that they say are organic. However, they readily admit that maintaining consistent organic and non-GMO offerings can be a struggle, mainly because of problems with finding and transporting these items. While it may seem commendable that they are upfront about these challenges, we do wonder how much of it is lip service, especially when there are competing services that manage to do it.

Between 500 and 800 calories

Most of their meals range between 500 and 800 calories, which is a decent window for those keeping an eye on their daily intake. The ability to view full nutritional information for each meal kit on their website before purchasing is a great tool to understand exactly what you're consuming, and we'd recommend you make use of it before committing to a subscription. Many meal kit delivery services talk the talk about health and nutrition, but do they walk the walk? Purple Carrot does.

Might not fit your macros

One customer's experience raises a red flag about Purple Carrot's health claims. They point out that "there are very few recipes with good macros." This is a crucial consideration for anyone focusing on fitness or specific dietary goals. The balance of protein, carbs, and fats is more than a numbers game; it's about fueling your body right.

Vegan doesn't mean healthy

One customer's shock at the sodium and fat content in a seemingly innocent tortellini dish is telling. It's a common pitfall: foods marketed as healthy or plant-based can sometimes be wolves in sheep's clothing, packed with hidden salts, fats, or sugars. For those who've made a conscious switch for health reasons, like transitioning to a plant-based diet, such surprises can be more than disappointing; they can be detrimental to health goals.

Read the fine print

Let's not dismiss the positive here - according to many customers, the food at Purple Carrot tasted good, and that's no small feat. However, one reviewer's decision to cancel after confronting the nutritional content speaks volumes about the importance of transparency and truth in advertising. So, what's the takeaway? Always read the label, question the claims, and remember, just because it's plant-based or comes in a green package doesn't guarantee it's the healthiest choice on the shelf.

You can recycle your box

The company has taken strides towards sustainability, with most packaging being recyclable - a responsible nod to environmental concerns. Your meals arrive in an insulated box with non-toxic ice packs, aimed at keeping ingredients fresh until they hit your kitchen. Purple Carrot claims to be committed to delivering fresh ingredients, but here's where things get messy.

Food often goes bad

Unfortunately, customer reviews suggest the packaging is not up to par. Stories of food arriving warm or spoiled, containers bloated with bacteria, and unsavory discoveries like hair in the food are alarming. One customer said food always went bad if not used on the day of delivery. These accounts suggest a troubling gap between Purple Carrot's promise of quality and the reality experienced by some. The responses from the company, often in the form of credits rather than concrete solutions, leave customers feeling unheard and uncertain.

Mixed reviews with a side of frustration

A decent 3.8 rating average from nearly a thousand reviews on Trustpilot and an "A+” from the Better Business Bureau suggest a generally satisfactory performance from Purple Carrot. However, the devil, as they say, is in the details. One customer's experience with an unsavory substitute and the subsequent lackluster customer service response reflects a bitter taste left by the company's inflexible policies. This incident, along with many similar grievances, points to a systemic issue rather than a one-off mishap.

Too expensive to justify mistakes

While some customers praise the vegan meal delivery service concept, others are left wanting more - more vegetables, more flavor, more value. Complaints about produce quality and inadequate portions are common. Adding to the dissatisfaction is the recurring theme of meals arriving warm and a customer service response that seems to be more miss than hit. And with healthfulness and affordability in question ($11 a serving is a bit much), it seems Purple Carrot may need to revisit its recipe for success. We suggest exploring the other vegan meal delivery services in our review that might better satisfy your appetite for quality and service. After all, when it comes to your meals and your well-being, shouldn't you expect the full package?

Veestro

• Price per serving: Starts at $13.99
• Days of food: 8-15 meals a week
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Breakfast and entrees
• Calories per meal: 300-450
• Number of vegan meals: 14
• Prep time: A few minutes

Veestro, founded in 2012, is a company that specializes in providing delicious, completely vegan meals. Customers can choose from a variety of meal options on their menu, which includes breakfasts, lunches, and dinners that are ready in minutes.

Menu is hidden behind your personal info

When you click on the menu button, you're taken to a tab titled "About You” and prompted to give them your full name, email, and zip code. We think Veestro (and services like them, because they're not the only one that does this) should keep in mind that potential customers are interviewing them, not the other way around. But, if you'd like to browse without offering up your contact info, try using a pretend email address (it worked for us!).

Choose between 8 and 15 meals

Rather than choosing a plan of a certain number of meals, you just add however many meals you need to your cart with a minimum of 8 and a limit of 15. We like that the meals clearly display the macros at a glance - you don't have to click off anywhere. If you do click the meal cards, though, you'll find a full list of ingredients and nutritional values. A typical day with Veestro might look like Banana Bread Protein Oatmeal for breakfast (500 cal), Fettuccine Alfredo for lunch (420 cal), and a Mediterranean Bowl for dinner (560 cal).

The same 14 meal options - indefinitely

Veestro's meals are individually priced, usually $13.99 for breakfast items (of which we found two) and $14.99 for lunch/dinner items (we found twelve). According to some consumer reports, Veestro does not rotate its menu, so we hope you like what you find there. Veestro charges a hefty $14.99 shipping fee per box. You can get a discount of $25 off your first 2 orders, but there's no mention of free shipping on these.

Fresh or frozen?

In an article on their blog, Veestro talks about how all their meals are frozen to retain nutrients. These meals can be stored in the freezer for up to 8 weeks and in the fridge for one week. However, when you click on the menu items, they all have a "fresh never frozen" label on them. So what's the truth? We wish we could tell you. It's possible that they recently made a transition from frozen to fresh, but apparently without much fanfare (or updating of old FAQ pages). Veestro's meals can be reheated in your microwave in under 5 minutes or in the oven for a bit longer. You'll need to check the label of your Veestro meal for more exact instructions than that.

Not much info about sourcing available

We wanted to know where Veestro sources their ingredients from, but aside from a few vague mentions of their food being "mostly organic”, our search was unfruitful (pun intended). Many of the links we found on their blog led to now-empty webpages. This seems to be a trend with Veestro.

Canceling is possible, but instructions are cryptic

There were no straightforward instructions for canceling or pausing a subscription to be found, but from a deep dive into a Terms and Conditions page written in legalese, we discerned that you can cancel your Veestro meal subscription by logging into your account, going to your meal plan page, and clicking the "Pause Deliveries" link. Any processed meal orders cannot be canceled or refunded. We're a little confused as to why there's not a separate button for pausing and for canceling, but confusion is the name of Veestro's game, apparently.

Typically recyclable packaging

To receive your Veestro order, you'll need to place/edit it by Thursday midnight each week. Delivery will occur the following week from Sunday to Friday, depending on your location. For more specific timeframe details, you'll have to create an account and enter your zip code. As you'd expect (if its competitors are anything to go off of), Veestro's packaging is recyclable. The boxes are made from recycled cardboard, the soft liner is biodegradable, and the ice packs contain a non-toxic gel solution that can be emptied into the trash. Meal containers are also recyclable.

Predatory billing tactics

Veestro has an "F” rating from the BBB, and all of the unanswered complaints there revolve around sneaky practices on Veestro's part. For example, they ship out unapproved orders post-cancellation and then throw up their hands and say, "Oops, there's nothing we can do” when customers request refunds. Unfortunately, many meal delivery services employ this tactic, and we're disappointed that Veestro continues to follow this trend. Aside from these comments on the Better Business Bureau site, there are very few customer reviews to be found online.

Veestro leaves us scratching our heads

Veestro is something of an enigma. They've been around for over a decade, but they haven't made much of a ripple online. Sometimes, no news is good news, but when it comes to what you're putting in your body, we'd urge you to consider one of our vegan meal delivery services with not only a reputation, but a good one.

Trifecta

• Price per serving: Starts at $14.99
• Days of food: 5 or 7
• Shipment frequency: Weekly
• Daily meals: Dinner, breakfast optional
• Calories per meal: Around 430
• Number of vegan meals: 25
• Prep time: 5 minutes

Trifecta Nutrition, once a beacon for fitness-focused meal delivery, has seen better days. Since its 2015 debut, the company made waves with high-profile partnerships and a robust menu catering to weight loss and athletic performance. But not all that glitters is gold. Recent allegations from former employees have dented its reputation and cast a shadow over its ethical practices and commitment to quality. Claims of fraud, harassment, and dubious sourcing practices have certainly stirred the pot, leaving consumers and partners wondering just what Trifecta thinks it's doing.

Unjustifiably expensive

On Trifecta's website, you'll be prompted to choose between 5, 7, or 14 entrees for the week with the option to add on 7 breakfasts. But let's talk numbers, shall we? Trifecta's pricing can make your wallet weep, with these entrees averaging $14.99 each without any visible discounts. This is one of the most expensive breakdowns of all vegan meal delivery services in our review. You'd think for such a price tag, culinary magic is delivered to your door, but we'll see about that.

Food goes bad quickly

Trifecta's promise sounds like a dream for the busy bee. Fully prepared and vacuum-sealed meals boasting a week's freshness in the fridge and a whole season in the freezer? Not to mention the array of heating methods - air-fryer, oven, microwave, or stovetop. The convenience is almost too good to be true. However, customers tell a story that's not so picture-perfect. Imagine the dismay of receiving meals that look more suited for a penitentiary than a dinner plate, leaking and turning an unappetizing shade of brown. "Disgusting," "prison food," and "dog food" aren't exactly the descriptions you'd expect for a premium vegan meal service. And when the food goes bad in just three days, causing a stink that lingers in your fridge for a month, it's clear that the promised ease of prep and storage is a far cry from reality. As they say, the proof is in the pudding - or in this case, the poorly vacuum-sealed package.

Monotonous selection of 25 recipes

With around 25 options per week, Trifecta's vegan menu already appears sparse. A recurring theme of beans and tofu may lead to a culinary Groundhog Day for plant-based eaters seeking variety. On paper, at least, the meals pack a balanced punch with an average of 430 calories, 21 grams of protein, 55 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. As it turns out, the meals taste so terrible that it's a moot point.

Tasteless at best, gross at worst

Trifecta plates up promises of low-calorie meals brimming with premium proteins and organic ingredients. The vision of fresh fruits, vegetables, and well-balanced macros paints a picture of a health enthusiast's dream. However, when fork comes to mouth, the reality is a huge disappointment. Customers recount their experiences with Trifecta as expensive yet flavorless. Descriptions like "tasteless," "watery," and "plastic" are oft-heard cries of disappointment from betrayed palates. The stark contrast between the advertised artisanal quality and the delivered product leaves a sour taste, and not from a zesty lemon garnish.

Kafkaesque cancellation process

Trifecta Nutrition markets a seemingly straightforward cancellation policy promising simple adjustments with a week's notice. Yet, customers recount a starkly different, almost Kafkaesque experience. Tales of ignored cancellation requests and continued charges paint a picture of a company more interested in retaining revenue than respecting customer autonomy. Interactions with customer service are described as frustrating and fruitless, with representatives offering little help and higher management seemingly just a myth. This alleged disconnect between policy and practice has left many feeling deceived and trapped, compelled to take extreme measures like canceling credit cards to finally sever ties.

You might just not get your box

Trifecta promises a seamless delivery experience with orders expected to arrive primarily on Fridays, accompanied by proactive tracking and ice-packed freshness. However, customer experiences tell a different story. Many have reported last-minute cancellations and a lack of transparency regarding delivery issues. Interestingly, they don't even provide an FAQ article about what to do if your box doesn't arrive. But with the quality of what's in it, that could be a small mercy.

Ranks terribly, as expected

85% of reviews of Trifecta on Trustpilot are 1-star, so they have an overall 1.9 score. The Better Business Bureau gives them an "F” grade, too. And remember that lawsuit we mentioned? It apparently involved the 2017 CrossFit Games and an accusation that Trifecta was passing off McDonald's patties as organic, grass-fed beef. It makes sense that their dishonesty extends to their meal delivery business, and that customers have, well, beef.

Lowest rated in our review

There is absolutely no good reason to use Trifecta. The food is bad, you won't get your money back, they might keep charging you after you've canceled, and their ethics are terrible, to put it bluntly. We recommend you look elsewhere at all costs. We think it's only a matter of time before Trifecta is bought out by a larger meal service company or goes down for good, because these business practices are not sustainable. As the old saying goes, you eat with your eyes first - but unfortunately, it seems Trifecta's offerings are better left unseen and untasted.