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11 hours ago
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Best meal delivery services and kits, tested and approved for the whole family
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. Is dinner time a daily struggle? If you have more than a few mouths to feed, it sure can feel that way. As a toddler-mom, I know the challenge all too well. If half my daughter's food doesn't end up splattered across the floor, I consider that a win. A big win. Sometimes, that simply means resorting to pizza delivery. Other days, it means digging through the pantry until I find something I purchased in 2018. Neither feels like the solution I'm looking for. Suffice it to say, family meal kits have turned into our saving grace. Everyone has their own taste, and if there are kiddos involved, half the battle is searching for a recipe that will appease those uber-picky eaters. Lucky for you and your little ones, most family-friendly meal kits offer a rotating menu curated across a variety of diets and preferences, from crowd-pleasing comfort foods to keto-friendly options for health-conscious households. There are even some gourmet plans to try for the families wishing to brush up on their chef skills. Post Wanted Picks Best Overall: HelloFresh HelloFresh Best for Picky Eaters: Little Spoon Little Spoon Best Prepared Meals : Factor : Factor Best Budget: EveryPlate EveryPlate Best Variety: Blue Apron To guide your search for easier meals (and more sanity), we've spent hours researching, ordering, cooking, and taste-tasting some of the best meal kits for families on the market. We considered top-rated delivery services, from Factor to HelloFresh, as well as dedicated kids' options like Little Spoon, too. Whether you're looking for the best made-from-scratch meals, microwave-ready options, or a subscription service that will save you time and a few bucks, this roundup has got something for you. Behold, the best meal delivery service for families, delivered right to your doorstep. Best Overall: HelloFresh Hello Fresh Pros: The meal cards are very easy to follow for beginners Accurate estimates for prep and cook time, per testing Produces 31% less carbon emissions than a traditional supermarket Easy to customize meal plan size, meal selections, and skip weeks Family-style meal kits wrapped up individually for ease of storage and cooking Cons: Many of the meals share some ingredients, which might be a con for those who like variety Requires some kitchen staples (salt, pepper, oil) A family meal kit roundup is not complete without HelloFresh. The company is one of the first brands to enter the meal-subscription service, and today, they go by the simple motto: Eat Well. Feel Good. Save Time. Our editors have tested HelloFresh many times since it opened in 2012, and this time around, we decided to look into their family-friendly meal kits. For a free high-protein item for life and 10 free meals, use code 'NYP10FMFS'. Previous 1 of 9 Next Cooking the Coconut Curry Chicken meal. Miska Salemann Some prep work. Miska Salemann Advertisement HelloFresh ingredients. Miska Salemann HelloFresh Coconut Curry Chicken meal — final product. Miska Salemann A look inside a Hello Fresh meal kit. Miska Salemann Advertisement Hello Fresh box. Miska Salemann Advertisement New York Post Review: HelloFresh has managed to maintain a stellar reputation for years, so I was curious to see just how seamless the service was. Spoiler: I was sold in the first five minutes. My daughter and I aren't afraid of some flavor (and spice), and it wasn't hard to find meals that could satisfy both cravings on its menu. We ordered the Coconut Curry Chicken, Apricot, Almond & Chickpea Tagine, Coconut Curry Tofu with Bok Choy, and Sweet Sesame Udon with Chicken & Red Peppers. My order arrived right on time for its scheduled Wednesday delivery, dropped right on my doorstep. The box was stacked with ice packs, and each meal was neatly packed into a brown paper bag with proteins stored on ice below. The recipe pages were placed on top, with images and easy step-by-step directions so even amateur home-chefs can follow along. Overall, I was very impressed. Everything was neat, aesthetic, and my favorite part, easy to get rid of. The expected preparation time for my home-cooked meals was around 25 minutes, but we clocked out in about 20. I'm an avid believer that your toddler doesn't need to eat separately from the adults, and I found that HelloFresh had options that were enjoyable for all parties. Finetuning the recipes is easy. For my daughter, I cut the serving size in half and used the spice packets a bit more sparingly. I was pleasantly surprised by how filling everything was. HelloFresh isn't pretending to be gourmet, but the meals were appetizing and on the heartier side. Some leftover can be expected. We've tested: Coconut Curry Chicken Apricot, Almond & Chickpea Tagine Coconut Curry Tofu with Bok Choy Sweet Sesame Udon with Chicken & Red Peppers. How does Hello Fresh work? HelloFresh offers a variety of plans suited to different needs. Simply select the number of meals needed per week and the number of mouths to feed (up to six people). From there, you can select preferences — meals in under 20 minutes, protein-packed varieties, and the easiest family-friendly options. HelloFresh generates a menu that works well for you, and you won't have a hard time finding something everyone can agree on. Testing TLDR: Ease of ordering: Customers can choose from 45+ weekly recipes, with Veggie, Fit and Wholesome, and Quick and Easy dinner options, and over 100 seasonal and convenience options. Select a preferred delivery day, and if needed, you can make an adjustment up to 5 days before. Customers can choose from 45+ weekly recipes, with Veggie, Fit and Wholesome, and Quick and Easy dinner options, and over 100 seasonal and convenience options. Select a preferred delivery day, and if needed, you can make an adjustment up to 5 days before. Prep, cook, and cleanup time: To reduce prep work, all the meals are bagged separately and come with step-by-step directions for prepping and cooking. We found that the recipes were easy to follow, and the preparation time was accurate. You'll need some oil, salt, and pepper, but Hello Fresh takes care of the rest. The meals aren't too elaborate (minimal ingredients), so cleanup is pretty easy. To reduce prep work, all the meals are bagged separately and come with step-by-step directions for prepping and cooking. We found that the recipes were easy to follow, and the preparation time was accurate. You'll need some oil, salt, and pepper, but Hello Fresh takes care of the rest. The meals aren't too elaborate (minimal ingredients), so cleanup is pretty easy. Flavor and fullness: HelloFresh certainly stands out in terms of variety. If your family gets bored easily and likes to switch up what's on the dinner plate, this delivery service is probably the best fit. They're are spicier options, traditional global cuisines, and comfort classics, too. Fresh is in its name, and the ingredients we tested all arrived in great condition. HelloFresh certainly stands out in terms of variety. If your family gets bored easily and likes to switch up what's on the dinner plate, this delivery service is probably the best fit. They're are spicier options, traditional global cuisines, and comfort classics, too. Fresh is in its name, and the ingredients we tested all arrived in great condition. Sustainability: To source what's in stock, HelloFresh uses seasonal produce during the Spring and Summer months (think apples, oranges, kiwis, broccoli, green beans, and more). By cutting back on food waste and offering recyclable packaging, the company claims it creates 31% fewer carbon emissions than a typical supermarket. To source what's in stock, HelloFresh uses seasonal produce during the Spring and Summer months (think apples, oranges, kiwis, broccoli, green beans, and more). By cutting back on food waste and offering recyclable packaging, the company claims it creates 31% fewer carbon emissions than a typical supermarket. Price: HelloFresh offers flexible pricing based on your family's needs. Meal kits typically run between $8.99 and $11.49 per serving. Shipping is typically a flat fee of $10.99 per week. The brand offers a range of promotions for new customers, with up to 10 boxes free. Best for Picky Eaters: Little Spoon Little Spoon Pros: A variety of flavors, textures, and different food groups in every meal Kid-friendly packaging is easy to serve and recyclable, saves time cooking and cleaning Meals are available for special dietary restrictions, allergies, and picky eaters High-quality, clean ingredients and recipes reviewed by developmental experts and nutritionists Cons: More expensive than some store-bought snacks and pre-made meals Important to follow refrigeration and freezing directions (plates and Biteables can be stored in the fridge for 7 days or the freezer for up to two months) Little Spoon is a pioneer in the kids' meal kit space, setting a new standard with its diverse menu for picky eaters and their health-conscious parents. All recipes are certified organic, developed by experts, and packed with real ingredients that little ones love (heavy on the fruits, veggies, and whole grains). In 2024, Little Spoon became the first U.S. baby food brand to adopt EU-aligned safety standards for its Babyblends. Previous 1 of 6 Next A variety of meals from Little Spoon. Miska Salemann Miska Salemann's daughter trying a Little Spoon meal. Miska Salemann Advertisement Microwaving a Little Spoon meal. Miska Salemann Miska Salemann's daughter trying a Little Spoon smoothie. Miska Salemann Advertisement New York Post Review: To be completely candid, it's pretty slim pickings when it comes to kids' food delivery services. When I heard about Little Spoon, I knew I needed to give it a shot. These beautifully packaged kids' meals come in every shape, size, and flavor profile, so you can stock your fridge and forget about the rest. The subscription service is very straightforward. It's also easy to filter for gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free items, so families with special diets or allergies should have no problem finding what they need. I settled on a mix of their best-sellers like Turkey Kale Meatballs, Rosemary Chicken, Spinach and Cheese Ravioli, Pizzalicious Veggie Loops, the Golden Apple Pie Smoothie, and more tasty snacks. The order arrived a few days after it was placed, in a durable box with all heat-and-eat meals completely frozen. Everything was clearly labeled and vacuum-sealed in BPA, BPS, and Phthalate-free packaging. The best part about this service is easily the fact that no preparation is necessary. For the frozen meals, you can simply pop them in the microwave. Snack bags and smoothies are also resealable, so you can take them on the go. My daughter greets each Little Spoon meal with delight; the portions are just right, textures are easy, and flavors are bursting. Half the time, she's begging for more, which is quite the 180 from the finicky eater I used to know. I had to try a taste for myself to see what it was all about, and I can affirm — Little Spoon understands how to lock in freshness. I wouldn't know better if you said they came right from a restaurant. Yes, this service is made for kids, but I'd be lying if I said I haven't popped a meal in the microwave for myself, too. Sample plans: From hearty chef-curated Lunchers and Plates suited for every eating stage, to slurpable Smoothies, perfectly-portioned Biteables, and Puffs for school lunches and snacking. Little Spoon has a little bit of everything, making it a great choice for families with young children. All products are USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, and Clean Label Project certified. We've tested: Turkey Kale Meatballs Rosemary Chicken Spinach and Cheese Ravioli Pizzalicious Veggie Loops Golden Apple Pie Smoothie How does Little Spoon work? Little Spoon offers a selection of meals tailored to different age groups, each with its own price range. The subscription service is simple. Following the first order, all future deliveries are scheduled to ship every two weeks. Customers can also skip, cancel, and edit menu plans at any time. Larger bundles offer the best meal discounts. A standard shipping fee of $10 is applied to all orders. Testing TLDR: Ease of ordering: Little Spoon's website is easy to navigate, and customers can easily explore different menu options while filtering for allergies or dietary restrictions. You'll need to enter some basic information before you begin browsing meals suited for your child's age and eating stage. Little Spoon's website is easy to navigate, and customers can easily explore different menu options while filtering for allergies or dietary restrictions. You'll need to enter some basic information before you begin browsing meals suited for your child's age and eating stage. Prep, cook, and cleanup time: For frozen meals, microwave on high for 60 seconds and let the tray rest for 2 minutes before carefully removing the film. Oven-baking is also an option, with most meals ready in under 10 minutes at 425°F. Plates and Biteables can be stored in the fridge for 7 days or the freezer for up to two months. For frozen meals, microwave on high for 60 seconds and let the tray rest for 2 minutes before carefully removing the film. Oven-baking is also an option, with most meals ready in under 10 minutes at 425°F. Plates and Biteables can be stored in the fridge for 7 days or the freezer for up to two months. Flavor and fullness: Little Spoon incorporates a variety of ingredients, with plenty of hidden fruits, veggies, and superfoods, so your kiddo gets the nutrients they need to support their growing bodies. The menu veers on the healthier side, but the recipes we tested were still well-seasoned and fresh-tasting. Little Spoon incorporates a variety of ingredients, with plenty of hidden fruits, veggies, and superfoods, so your kiddo gets the nutrients they need to support their growing bodies. The menu veers on the healthier side, but the recipes we tested were still well-seasoned and fresh-tasting. Sustainability: Little Spoon uses BPA, BPS, and Phthalate-free packaging, and everything is recyclable. The snacks and meals are also perfectly portioned to help eliminate food waste. All products are USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, and Clean Label Project certified. Little Spoon uses BPA, BPS, and Phthalate-free packaging, and everything is recyclable. The snacks and meals are also perfectly portioned to help eliminate food waste. All products are USDA-certified organic, non-GMO, and Clean Label Project certified. Price: Babyblends start at $3.32 per blend for 42 blends per delivery. Biteables start at $6.49 per meal for 12 meals per week. Plates start at $6.49 per meal for 12 meals per week. Lunchers start at $7.92 per meal for 14 meals a week. Smoothies start at $2.82 per smoothie for 18 per week. The standard shipping fee is $10 per order. Best Prepared Meals: Factor Factor Pros: Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts all come fresh, ready to heat and eat (no preparation needed) More health-conscious options designed by dietiticians: keto, paleo, plant-based, low-carb, vegetarian, pescatarian, and meat-eaters They also offer snacks as well as smoothies and protein shakes for a grab-and-go meal or pre-workout Cons: The packaging may take up a bit more space in the fridge than the homemade meals we tested from other subscription services Factor may be better for smaller families, as the price for single-serving meals can add up Factor might be the best prepared meal delivery for families, especially if you're factoring in calories while counting the clock. These meals require no prep and no cooking. The entire menu is dietitian-approved and chef-prepared, and all you'll need to do is pop your plates into the microwave for two minutes and enjoy. The protein-heavy menu spans from seafood delicacies like Salmon Piccata to Fajita-Spiced Shrimp and Filet Mignon, as well as tasty plates like Blueberry Pancakes and Kale and Mushroom Egg Bites, so you could have breakfast, lunch, and dinner covered. Get up to $130 off and free shipping on your first box with promo code 'NYP130FS'. How does Factor work? Families barely have enough time to set the table, let alone prepare homemade meals. Factor is an attractive choice for those who would prefer heat-and-eat meals that can be stored in the fridge and freezer. This entirely pre-made delivery service also offers protein shakes, snacks, and fresh juices that are perfect for families looking to meet health goals. Simply order as many as you'll need to feed the entire family. Testing TLDR: Ease of ordering: Unlike subscription services like HelloFresh or EveryPlate, you won't have to worry about meal planning. Factor meals are all single-serving sizes, and there are plenty to choose from. The menu features 50 healthy, restaurant-quality al-la-carte meals each week. Unlike subscription services like HelloFresh or EveryPlate, you won't have to worry about meal planning. Factor meals are all single-serving sizes, and there are plenty to choose from. The menu features 50 healthy, restaurant-quality al-la-carte meals each week. Prep, cook and cleanup time: The greatest draw of Factor has to be the time saved during cooking and cleaning. There is zero prep needed with these grab-and-go meals. Factor meals arrive in an insulated, recyclable box ready to heat and eat in just two minutes. The greatest draw of Factor has to be the time saved during cooking and cleaning. There is zero prep needed with these grab-and-go meals. Factor meals arrive in an insulated, recyclable box ready to heat and eat in just two minutes. Flavor and fullness: Factor meals tend to focus on the protein, and their meats and seafood have a high-quality taste. Per our testing, the portions are a bit smaller, and some meals were less filling than the home-cooked delivery services we tested. You may want to consider the add-ons, like smoothies and protein shakes, to supplement meals. Factor meals tend to focus on the protein, and their meats and seafood have a high-quality taste. Per our testing, the portions are a bit smaller, and some meals were less filling than the home-cooked delivery services we tested. You may want to consider the add-ons, like smoothies and protein shakes, to supplement meals. Sustainability: There are a couple more steps involved, but Factor is still a sustainable choice. The box and ice packs can be broken down and recycled. The packaging and cardboard sleeve can also be recycled if all the food particles are rinsed away after eating. The brand also sources 100% renewable electricity for all its production sites and offices. There are a couple more steps involved, but Factor is still a sustainable choice. The box and ice packs can be broken down and recycled. The packaging and cardboard sleeve can also be recycled if all the food particles are rinsed away after eating. The brand also sources 100% renewable electricity for all its production sites and offices. Price: Compared to other meal delivery services, Factor is on the pricier side. Eight meals per week average $13.49, but there are frequent promo codes. The more you order, the less you'll pay per serving. Shipping costs a flat rate of $10.99. Best Budget: EveryPlate EveryPlate Pros: More affordable than many other sites we tested, making it one of the best meal kits for large families Meals were filling, picky-eater-approved, and still yummy as leftovers The recipe cards are simple and easy to follow for beginners Fewer choices, but you may spend less time sorting through the menu to place your order Less packaging means reduced waste Cons: Less variety on the menu, and simpler ingredients are used in the recipes All of the items (besides protein) are placed in a single bag, which requires some sorting Feeding the whole family gets pricey. EveryPlate has positioned itself as a more budget-friendly meal delivery service, and they've made good on that promise. Meals start at around $5.99 per serving, making it more affordable than strong competitors like Blue Apron and even HelloFresh. The recipes are a bit simpler, as is the packaging, which helps keep prices lower for customers. To pay just $1.99 per meal on your first box, use code 'NYP199EP'. Previous 1 of 9 Next EveryPlate Black Bean Burrito Bowl. Miska Salemann The EveryPlate box, delivered and ready to open. EveryPlate Advertisement Miska Salemann's daughter trying an EveryPlate bowl. Miska Salemann Cooking an EveryPlate meal. Miska Salemann EveryPlate ingredients, cooked and tested by Miska Salemann and her daughter. EveryPlate Advertisement EveryPlate ingredients in a brown paper bag. EveryPlate Advertisement New York Post Review: EveryPlate's menu may have been absent of filets and fancy recipes I can't pronounce, but I was still pleasantly surprised with the options. I ordered a sampling of the Hawaiian-Style Loco Moco, Saucy Black Bean Fajita Burrito Bowls, and Soy-Marinated Steak Fried Rice. Everything was delivered in a brightly-colored cardboard box that arrived ahead of schedule. Upon breaking it open, I noticed the ingredients were all placed together in one bag, with meat and fish placed below. This is a bit different than HelloFresh, which wraps meals separately, but it's no bother as long as you save some time to sort through the ingredients. It took some time to find what I needed for the different recipes, but once that was out of the way, the rest of the preparation process was seamless. The meal cards have large photographs for those who are more visually oriented. I probably could have figured out how to make the black bean bowl from pictures alone, and for busy parents, that type of intuitive cooking is greatly appreciated. It saves time, energy, and takes out the guesswork. Another big draw: The recipes are simple, so simple in fact that my toddler was able to assist in stirring up some sauces. Sure, EveryPlate cuisine might not look like it came out of a Michelin-star restaurant (frankly, kids don't care about that), but the meals were still tasty and just as good as leftovers the next day. My daughter devoured the Saucy Black Bean Fajita Burrito Bowls (pictured above) within minutes, and it's typically a battle just to get her to try any type of veggie, let alone peppers, onions, and tomatoes in one dish. Since EveryPlate has a smaller menu to choose from, you may notice some repetition. However, families who value affordability, consistency, and practicality might appreciate having fewer choices — we sure did. We've tested: Hawaiian-Style Loco Moco Saucy Black Bean Fajita Burrito Bowls Soy-Marinated Steak Fried Rice How does EveryPlate work? EveryPlate caters to a more value-driven crowd, ideal for college students, first-time meal kit users, and families with young children. Meal plans range from two to six people, with three to five meals per week. The menu rotates with about 20 choices, and most meals are ready in 20 minutes or less. Customers can filter for family faves, quick and easy recipes, healthier options, and more suited for different diets. Testing TLDR: Ease of ordering: With roughly 25 menu options every week, EveryPlate may have fewer options than some other sites. For families that don't want to spend time sorting through countless options, this may be a positive factor. It's still possible to filter for different health needs and family-friendly recipes. Select a preferred delivery day, and if needed, you can adjust up to 5 days before. With roughly 25 menu options every week, EveryPlate may have fewer options than some other sites. For families that don't want to spend time sorting through countless options, this may be a positive factor. It's still possible to filter for different health needs and family-friendly recipes. Select a preferred delivery day, and if needed, you can adjust up to 5 days before. Prep, cook, and cleanup time: EveryPlate requires a little more prep work out of the gate. The ingredients are placed in one paper bag, so you'll need to sort through to find what you need. From there, the recipe cards are extremely straightforward, and the meals we tested were ready ahead of schedule. Having fewer ingredients proved to save some time cooking and cleaning. EveryPlate requires a little more prep work out of the gate. The ingredients are placed in one paper bag, so you'll need to sort through to find what you need. From there, the recipe cards are extremely straightforward, and the meals we tested were ready ahead of schedule. Having fewer ingredients proved to save some time cooking and cleaning. Flavor and fullness: While EveryPlate's meals were a little less extravagant than some of the other meal kits we have tested, they still are well-seasoned and filling. My daughter was particularly impressed with the fried rice and bean bowls, confirming to me that this brand understands how to appease picky eaters. The recipes are simple, balanced, and still nourishing. While EveryPlate's meals were a little less extravagant than some of the other meal kits we have tested, they still are well-seasoned and filling. My daughter was particularly impressed with the fried rice and bean bowls, confirming to me that this brand understands how to appease picky eaters. The recipes are simple, balanced, and still nourishing. Sustainability: Thanks to its pre-portioned ingredients, EveryPlate eliminates a substantial amount of food waste. The company also limits plastic and individual wrapping wherever possible, and the box is also 100% recyclable. Thanks to its pre-portioned ingredients, EveryPlate eliminates a substantial amount of food waste. The company also limits plastic and individual wrapping wherever possible, and the box is also 100% recyclable. Price: EveryPlate offers competitive pricing for large families. Servings start at just $5.99 with premium add-ons priced around $2.99 per serving. There is a flat shipping fee of $8.99 per week. First-time customers can score up to $180 off their first 5 boxes. Best Variety: Blue Apron Blue Apron Pros: Very fresh produce, large portions, and full-sized ingredients (restaurant-quality) You may learn some new culinary skills in the process of cooking these recipes Ideal for families who want to spend time cooking together Delivery service also offers pre-made meals, grocery items, and add-ons for breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dessert Cons: A bit less sustainable, as each meal and many ingredients are individually wrapped in plastic Some recipes are a bit more complicated, so they might be better suited for people with cooking skills If you're all about options, Blue Apron is hard to beat. The rotating menu features over 100 meals every week, which makes it easy for foodies to find something fresh and exciting every time they put in their order. It's easy to filter for carb-conscious options, family favorites, seasonal veggie varieties, and more categories customized to your liking. There's even a section dedicated just to desserts, so sweet-tooths are satisfied too. Blue Apron has also positioned itself as a more sustainable choice, as far as subscription services go. Their team partners with experts to create better standards for growing food and raising animals, committing to antibiotic and hormone-free meats and selecting seafood recommended by Seafood Watch, so customers know they're meals are sustainably sourced and safe to eat. How does Blue Apron work? Blue Apron isn't just a meal kit subscription, it's designed to teach you how to cook new recipes you may have never tried before. This service is a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and spend quality time with each other in the kitchen. As far as meal plans go, customers can choose from over 20 weekly options of never frozen, microwave-ready meals in 1, 2, 3, or 4 serving sizes. You can stop or skip at any time and shop single-serve options from the Marketplace, no subscription required. Testing TLDR: Ease of ordering: Blue Apron's site is easy to navigate, and the subscription service is only a few steps away. First, you'll need to choose between prepared meals and homemade options. Then, you can refine for dietary preferences and select the number of servings (two or four) and meals (up to five) you'll need every week. Blue Apron's site is easy to navigate, and the subscription service is only a few steps away. First, you'll need to choose between prepared meals and homemade options. Then, you can refine for dietary preferences and select the number of servings (two or four) and meals (up to five) you'll need every week. Prep, cook and cleanup time: Since Blue Apron meals are a bit more in-depth, customers should expect a slightly longer cooking and cleanup time. Some recipes require using more than one appliance at a time, and more refined chopping skills, grating, and mixing ingredients. Since Blue Apron meals are a bit more in-depth, customers should expect a slightly longer cooking and cleanup time. Some recipes require using more than one appliance at a time, and more refined chopping skills, grating, and mixing ingredients. Flavor and fullness: Per our testing, Blue Apron offers some of the most decadent and filling meals. The ingredients taste fresh, and the recipes are well-seasoned and balance different food groups, so you're receiving the nutritional benefits, too. The extra time for cooking is worth it — and it's a good way to introduce kids to new flavors and textures. Per our testing, Blue Apron offers some of the most decadent and filling meals. The ingredients taste fresh, and the recipes are well-seasoned and balance different food groups, so you're receiving the nutritional benefits, too. The extra time for cooking is worth it — and it's a good way to introduce kids to new flavors and textures. Sustainability: Blue Apron works hand-in-hand with sustainability experts and sources approximately 80% of what goes into their meal kits directly from producers and farms. Over 85% of its packaging is recyclable by weight, and the company is also carbon neutral, making it a very sustainable choice. Blue Apron works hand-in-hand with sustainability experts and sources approximately 80% of what goes into their meal kits directly from producers and farms. Over 85% of its packaging is recyclable by weight, and the company is also carbon neutral, making it a very sustainable choice. Price: Blue Apron is comparable to most meal delivery services. Customers can get started for as little as $7.99 per serving, with better deals for larger meal plans. Shipping is free for orders over $50, and $5.99 for orders under $50. What is the most cost-effective meal kit? Based on our testing and research, EveryPlate was the most cost-effective meal kit for large families. Meals average at roughly $5.99 per serving, with a shipping fee of $9.99 per order. However, the overall price-per-meal decreases with orders of larger quantities. For five meals that cater to six people a week, the total cost comes to just $1.99 per serving. First-time customers can also score a discount of up to 66% off the total cost of their order. How We Tested Miska Salemann To review the best family meal kits, we evaluated the meal delivery services on a few factors: taste, nutrition, convenience, variety, and overall value. Each factor played a key role in determining whether the service was worth the cost for parents. Taste: The ultimate test we put these meal kits through was the taste test. I sat down with my picky toddler to share these meals. We considered freshness, seasoning, and presentation, as well as how many leftovers we had over and how full everyone was by the end of the meal. The ultimate test we put these meal kits through was the taste test. I sat down with my picky toddler to share these meals. We considered freshness, seasoning, and presentation, as well as how many leftovers we had over and how full everyone was by the end of the meal. Nutrition: All meal kit services have their own approach to nutrition. Some offer more comfort foods, while others have a range of meals for dietary restrictions and health-conscious families. We evaluated ingredients and considered the nutritional balance in every recipe, as well as the absence of unwanted artificial additives. All meal kit services have their own approach to nutrition. Some offer more comfort foods, while others have a range of meals for dietary restrictions and health-conscious families. We evaluated ingredients and considered the nutritional balance in every recipe, as well as the absence of unwanted artificial additives. Convenience: Convenience was a major factor in our review of the best family meal kits, so we made notes about the ordering and delivery process, tested to see just how 'ready-to-eat' each meal was, timed how long it took to prepare, and whether any additional clean-up was necessary. Convenience was a major factor in our review of the best family meal kits, so we made notes about the ordering and delivery process, tested to see just how 'ready-to-eat' each meal was, timed how long it took to prepare, and whether any additional clean-up was necessary. Variety: Kids and adults are hard to please, and providing a variety is essential. We reviewed the diversity of these meal kits' menu offerings and made note of the different dietary restriction-friendly foods. We also noted whether any brands used seasonal produce in their recipes. Kids and adults are hard to please, and providing a variety is essential. We reviewed the diversity of these meal kits' menu offerings and made note of the different dietary restriction-friendly foods. We also noted whether any brands used seasonal produce in their recipes. Overall value: The overall value always depends on an individual's budget, nutritional needs, and daily routines. For this review, we considered the ease of ordering and delivery, cost versus food quality, and the amount of time saved by using the service as the main factors for helping parents make an informed choice. Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted. This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Journalist. As a Gen Z first-time mother of one, Miska tests baby, maternity and postpartum products ranging from stylish new kids clothes to long-trusted diaper brands with her daughter. She evaluates baby- and mom-approved products for practicality and quality, and consults medical and parenting experts to weigh in on safe ingredients, usage and more. Before arriving at the Post, she covered the lifestyle and consumer verticals for the U.S. Sun.
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- Yahoo
Factor donates five refrigerated vans to Aurora-area food pantries
Factor, a packaged meal delivery service, recently donated five refrigerated vans to food pantries operating in and around Aurora. The five vans, which were filled with Factor meals also donated by the company, were officially handed over at a ceremony held Wednesday at the company's facility at 2372 W. Indian Trail in Aurora. Late last year, company officials pledged during a press conference in Aurora to donate 10 refrigerated vans to food pantries over the course of 2025. 'This generous donation from Factor is a game-changer for our local food banks and for families in need,' Aurora Ald. Carl Franco, 5th Ward, said at Wednesday's ceremony. 'This isn't just about transportation, it's about ensuring no one in our community goes hungry.' The vans were given to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry, Loaves & Fishes Community Services and Kendall County Food Pantry. Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry Executive Director Annette Johnson told The Beacon-News after the ceremony that Factor is a great community partner to the pantry — not only because of the donation of the refrigerated truck, which was set to go deliver food the same afternoon it was donated, but also because the company donates 3,000 meals each week to the organization. 'There has never been a better community partner than Factor,' she said. A vehicle is a huge donation, Mike Keane, director of programs at the Northern Illinois Food Bank, said after the ceremony. The new refrigerated van will allow the organization to be versatile in getting meals to those in need, he said, in the most timely and fresh way possible. It is a core belief of Factor that everyone deserves access to healthy and nutritious meals, according to Dan Seidel, chief operating officer of HelloFresh North America, which is Factor's parent company. He said during Wednesday's ceremony that this core belief is behind Factor's Fuel for Change initiative, through which the company has donated more than 2 million meals to food pantries like those represented at the ceremony. Late last year, Factor celebrated a milestone of one million meals donated to the Aurora community during a similar ceremony. Although meaningful progress has been made in fighting food insecurity, the challenge is 'only deepening,' Seidel said. In Illinois, one in eight people face food insecurity, meaning they do not have reliable access to nutritious food needed for healthy lifestyles, he said. Tackling the problem requires a commitment from 'every corner of society,' Seidel said, and 'only through collaboration can we build a future where everyone has access to healthy, nourishing food.' Aurora Deputy Mayor Casildo 'Casey' Cuevas, speaking during the ceremony, thanked Factor and all the food pantries for the work they do. He has a special place in his heart for this issue, he said, because he has personally worked to combat food insecurity in Aurora, which he called a growing problem. The donation of these vans 'really means a lot' because it means food will get to those who need it in the community, and he has personally seen the blessings that come from delivering food, he said. Aurora Deputy Chief of Staff Nicholas Richard-Thompson said during the ceremony that communities are seeing an increase in economic pressures like food insecurity because of what's happening at the federal level. So, he said collective action and cooperation are needed now more than ever, and he commended Factor for stepping up to partner with community organizations. During his own speech, Franco called Factor 'one of our most generous and benevolent local businesses' and said that, since locating here a few years back, have 'stepped up as a significant community partner contributing to many of our local not-for profits, helping them to provide for our residents.' rsmith@
Chicago Tribune
4 days ago
- Business
- Chicago Tribune
Factor donates five refrigerated vans to Aurora-area food pantries
Factor, a packaged meal delivery service, recently donated five refrigerated vans to food pantries operating in and around Aurora. The five vans, which were filled with Factor meals also donated by the company, were officially handed over at a ceremony held Wednesday at the company's facility at 2372 W. Indian Trail in Aurora. Late last year, company officials pledged during a press conference in Aurora to donate 10 refrigerated vans to food pantries over the course of 2025. 'This generous donation from Factor is a game-changer for our local food banks and for families in need,' Aurora Ald. Carl Franco, 5th Ward, said at Wednesday's ceremony. 'This isn't just about transportation, it's about ensuring no one in our community goes hungry.' The vans were given to the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry, Loaves & Fishes Community Services and Kendall County Food Pantry. Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry Executive Director Annette Johnson told The Beacon-News after the ceremony that Factor is a great community partner to the pantry — not only because of the donation of the refrigerated truck, which was set to go deliver food the same afternoon it was donated, but also because the company donates 3,000 meals each week to the organization. 'There has never been a better community partner than Factor,' she said. A vehicle is a huge donation, Mike Keane, director of programs at the Northern Illinois Food Bank, said after the ceremony. The new refrigerated van will allow the organization to be versatile in getting meals to those in need, he said, in the most timely and fresh way possible. It is a core belief of Factor that everyone deserves access to healthy and nutritious meals, according to Dan Seidel, chief operating officer of HelloFresh North America, which is Factor's parent company. He said during Wednesday's ceremony that this core belief is behind Factor's Fuel for Change initiative, through which the company has donated more than 2 million meals to food pantries like those represented at the ceremony. Late last year, Factor celebrated a milestone of one million meals donated to the Aurora community during a similar ceremony. Although meaningful progress has been made in fighting food insecurity, the challenge is 'only deepening,' Seidel said. In Illinois, one in eight people face food insecurity, meaning they do not have reliable access to nutritious food needed for healthy lifestyles, he said. Tackling the problem requires a commitment from 'every corner of society,' Seidel said, and 'only through collaboration can we build a future where everyone has access to healthy, nourishing food.' Aurora Deputy Mayor Casildo 'Casey' Cuevas, speaking during the ceremony, thanked Factor and all the food pantries for the work they do. He has a special place in his heart for this issue, he said, because he has personally worked to combat food insecurity in Aurora, which he called a growing problem. The donation of these vans 'really means a lot' because it means food will get to those who need it in the community, and he has personally seen the blessings that come from delivering food, he said. Aurora Deputy Chief of Staff Nicholas Richard-Thompson said during the ceremony that communities are seeing an increase in economic pressures like food insecurity because of what's happening at the federal level. So, he said collective action and cooperation are needed now more than ever, and he commended Factor for stepping up to partner with community organizations. During his own speech, Franco called Factor 'one of our most generous and benevolent local businesses' and said that, since locating here a few years back, have 'stepped up as a significant community partner contributing to many of our local not-for profits, helping them to provide for our residents.'
USA Today
25-05-2025
- Health
- USA Today
Healthy meals with no prep: Try Factor and save $130 on your first 6 boxes with our code
Healthy meals with no prep: Try Factor and save $130 on your first 6 boxes with our code Everyone seems to be on some sort of health journey, whether you're hitting the gym a little harder, eating healthier or testing out a GLP-1 like Ozempic. But, you don't have to suffer with basic chicken and sweet potato meals to hit your macros and still stay under a calorie deficit, thanks to Factor. Factor meals are made with health-conscious ingredients that can cater to your dietary needs, ranging from Keto to vegan and beyond. With no prep required, these chef-crafted ready-to-eat meals can be enjoyed in just two minutes! Plus, with our exclusive USA Today coupon code, you can save $130 on your first six boxes. Here's everything you need to know to get started with Factor. What is Factor? Factor is a meal delivery service that specializes in fresh, ready-to-eat meals designed for convenience and health-focused customers. Unlike traditional meal kits that require cooking, Factor's meals arrive fully prepared so you can heat-and-eat in under two minutes. Does Factor offer meals for dietary restrictions? Factor meals are crafted by chefs and dietitians to meet your dietary needs. The Factor menu offers a wide variety of chilled meals according to your dietary preferences, including Keto, Calorie Smart, Protein Plus, Vegan and Vegetarian. You can also choose from a number of add-ons like smoothies, snacks and breakfast items to complement your meal plan. Can you customize your Factor meal plan? Factor offers flexible plans where customers can choose from six to 18 meals per week, with the ability to pause or cancel your subscription at any time. More: 11 meal kit delivery services and health plans with deals for May 2025 Can you freeze factor meals? Factor provides fresh, never frozen meals, and they recommend enjoying your heat-to-eat meals while they're fresh. But, you can freeze them in order to extend their shelf life without significantly affecting their quality. How much does Factor cost? Pricing varies based on the number of meals and servings per week. On average, it ranges from $10.99 to $13.49 per meal. Additionally, there is a flat $10.99 shipping fee per delivery. However, with our exclusive discount for new customers, you can save $130 off your first six boxes. Save on Factor meal boxes
USA Today
22-05-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Knicks' plan to keep pace with Pacers leaves them gassed
Knicks' plan to keep pace with Pacers leaves them gassed Show Caption Hide Caption Who will be the X Factor in the Pacers-Knicks Eastern Conference Finals? The Eastern Conference Finals between the Knicks and Pacers might get tight. Here are the players who we think might be able to break through and tilt the series. NEW YORK — He was done answering questions and reporters scattered off, leaving Josh Hart to ponder what had just happened. The Knicks forward sat at his locker and leaned with his elbows resting on his knees, his face buried in his hands. Then, for a few minutes, he stared ahead vacantly, presumably processing how his team let a 14-point lead inside the final three minutes slip away — how his team let Game 1 of the NBA's Eastern Conference finals slip away. For the first 44 minutes of the game, the Knicks matched the speed and tempo of the Indiana Pacers. And for the first 44 minutes, it worked. The Knicks controlled the middle portion of the game, grabbing a lead with 8:20 to play in the second quarter and retaining it until Tyrese Haliburton's improbable game-tying shot at the end of regulation bounced high off the back rim, hung in the air, and fell through the net, sending the game to overtime. 'We didn't finish the game out,' Hart told reporters moments earlier. 'We didn't run through that finish line. I feel like defensively we let off the gas; the intensity and physicality wasn't there. Offensively, we were playing slower, a little stagnant, and it looked like we were playing not to lose. We got to make sure we don't make that mistake again.' More: Knicks vs. Pacers: Eight best (and infamous) moments of storied rivalry MORE: Tyrese Haliburton buzzer-beater: Pacers star forces OT with wild shot, celebrates early In the interview room down the hallway here at Madison Square Garden, Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau also summed it up succinctly. 'You just can never let your guard down against them,' Thibodeau said. 'No lead is safe.' These assessments from Hart and Thibodeau reveal a truth simmering below New York's collapse: the Knicks, who excel in the halfcourt, ranking 26th in pace, are better served grinding games down, making the Pacers slog through their offense when confronted with physical transition defense. Indiana wants to play fast, and spending 48 minutes matching its speed often leaves opponents sucking wind at the end of games, trying — and often failing — to do anything to stop its late-game onslaughts. This postseason alone, the Pacers have won a pair of games in which they trailed by seven inside the final 48 seconds — putting the record of teams facing such situations at 3-1,679. On Wednesday, the Knicks scored 69 points in the first half, tying a franchise record for most in a half of a playoff game. New York had set that mark last year in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals … against the Pacers, a series New York lost in seven games. Throughout the early part of Game 1, the Knicks scooped boards and fed players streaking down the court on outlets, generating high-percentage looks at the rim or kickouts along the perimeter. In essence, they outpaced the Pacers — until they couldn't. Late in the fourth, as New York was trying to cling to its lead, Knicks players appeared gassed, doubling over, slow to rotate. Their play, particularly on defense, suffered. In the fourth quarter, New York allowed Indiana shooting guard Aaron Nesmith to drain five consecutive 3s — the Pacers as a team connected on seven straight from deep to close the period — and score 20 of his 30 points in the quarter. For the most part, the shots were open looks that the Knicks could not contest in time. In the final minutes, the Pacers played quicker and more assertively. They closed the fourth on a 31-14 run. Nesmith was the catalyst, and it's safe to question whether fatigue set in on New York. 'I mean, yeah, once he hits one, you have to be on high alert,' Knicks point guard Jalen Brunson told reporters after the game. 'I got to do a better job of finding him. I think he had one or two with me in the vicinity that started it off. That's not a way to close a game.' Wild comebacks have been thematic this NBA postseason, and, now, Friday's Game 2 suddenly becomes essential for New York. The Knicks, however, are an experienced and cohesive team that has also embraced the comeback ethos these playoffs. But what has become clear after Game 1 is that New York's best chance isn't to run with the Pacers, it's to try to slow them down. 'It's a tough one,' Hart said. 'We're all disappointed in it, but the series is not over after one game.'
