Meal Delivery Services

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Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, CDN
Medically reviewed by Kristy Del Coro, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristy is a licensed registered dietitian nutritionist and trained culinary professional. She has worked in a variety of settings, including MSKCC and Rouge Tomate.
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Updated on May 03, 2022
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Ashley Hall
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Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education.

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Whether you’re pressed for time, don’t know how to cook, or just don’t want to, meal delivery services can take a little—or all— of the preparation out of planning the week’s menu. What’s best for you may be determined by dietary preferences, price points, or the time it takes to get food on the table—most likely, it'll be a combination of all three.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the cheapest meal delivery service?

    With meals as inexpensive as $4.99 per serving, Dinnerly may be the most cost-effective nationwide delivery service. However, local delivery services may offer lower prices in your area.

    Learn More: Dinnerly Review
  • What is the best pre-made meal delivery service?

    Freshly is our top pick for flexible, ready-made meals, offering options for gluten-free, vegetarian, and meat-eaters alike.

  • What is the best vegan meal delivery service?

    The Purple Carrot offers both pre-made meals and meal kits, and earns high marks for nutrient density. With delivery in 48 states and plans starting at $9.99, we bet you’ll love it, too—whether or not you’re vegan.

    Learn More: Purple Carrot Review
  • What meal delivery services are good for kids?

    Little Spoon has offerings for babies, toddlers, and kids alike, as well as smoothies, vitamins, and at-home remedies. This service helps instill healthy habits with balanced plates, plenty of veggies, and nutrient-dense smoothies for snack time.

    Learn More: Little Spoon Review
  • Why should I use a meal delivery service?

    A meal delivery service can help meet your nutritional needs. If you struggle with time, planning, or execution of meal prep, a meal delivery service may be the answer. Whether it’s for a short period of time or for the long haul, meal delivery services can meet different budget and dietary needs.

Key Terms

  • Vegan

    A meal pattern that eliminates all animal foods and foods derived from animals, including all meat, dairy, eggs, fish, and honey.

    What Is a Vegan Diet?
  • Vegetarian

    This term encompasses a wide variety of eating patterns that are based largely on non-animal derived foods. Unlike vegans, vegetarians may eat eggs, dairy, and honey.

    What Is the Vegetarian Diet?
  • Meal Prep

    The process of preparing food, and commonly recognized as being completed well ahead of consuming the meal. 

    Guide to Meal Prepping
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