We all have days where we want to eat a hearty meal but don’t have the time or energy to make it ourselves. That’s exactly what a meal delivery kit plan is for!
But with all the options available, you’ll find yourself asking, what is the best meal prep service? You could find lots of answers, but in reality, it varies from person to person.
So, where do you start? Here are a few tips from The Fresh Plan to find the ideal meal prep service for you.
Focus on Nutritional Value
Most people think of a burst of flavors when they think of a good meal. But with a meal prep service, it also offers a full nutrition plate. Generally, it means having veggies, grains, protein, fruits, healthy oils, and water.
The best meal prep service should provide you with the perfect balance of ingredients and portions, from carbs to sodium. It’s a bonus if they give you recipe cards or dietary warnings to keep you aware of what you’re eating.
Look Into Variety
Next to nutritional value, a good meal prep service will give you variety. This way, it can cater to both picky and spontaneous eaters.
Here are a few things to consider when it comes to variety:
- Customization: Consider selecting a meal prep service that allows you to customize your plan according to your specific needs, like food allergies or calorie counts.
- Recipe Options: It’s best to have an array of recipes, as well as the option to decide on what type of food you can choose from. For example, high-protein or keto meals.
- Subscription Plans: There’s no telling when you will need more kits than usual, so consider a service that allows you to order in bulk.
Consider Sustainability
Aside from the meals themselves, you want a meal prep service that promotes sustainability. It means using green packaging to limit environmental impacts and accurately portioned meals to reduce food waste.
Moreover, it helps to check where they source their ingredients from. This way, you can determine if they contribute to keeping the economy sustainable with the produce they use.
Check Ingredient Quality
The quality of ingredients plays a big role in deciding on the best meal prep service. Some recommend picking services that prepare their meals from farm to table. So, you can feel comfortable knowing their ingredients are as fresh as they can be once they reach your doorstep.
Ingredient age and quality also determine each meal’s shelf life. A study shows that the fresher the ingredients used are, the longer they can maintain their quality.
Evaluate Value for Money
At the end of the day, the cost can determine whether you proceed with a meal prep subscription plan. Take into account the basic services they offer, then consider the add-ons.
Not only does it help you find a budget-friendly option, but it also helps you determine if they fit your budget. This way, you can confidently say you chose the best meal prep service accessible to you!