Meal delivery kits have become a go-to solution for busy households seeking convenience, variety, and fresh meals without the hassle of grocery shopping. Brands like HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and Home Chef promise high-quality meals delivered to your door—but are they worth the investment? This guide breaks down the costs, benefits, and how you can maximize savings with cashback apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fluz.
Meal Kit Price Comparison: HelloFresh vs Blue Apron vs Home Chef
- HelloFresh:
HelloFresh meals generally cost between $8.99 and $12.49 per serving, depending on the meal plan and number of servings. A shipping fee of around $10 per box typically applies. HelloFresh is known for its family-friendly meals and quick recipes like 20-minute dinners.
- Blue Apron:
Blue Apron offers meal plans priced around $7.99 to $11.99 per serving. They frequently run promotions for new customers and even offer a Wine Subscription for those wanting a full culinary experience at home.
- Home Chef:
Home Chef meals start at approximately $9.99 per serving. Their standout feature is the “Customize It” option, allowing subscribers to swap or upgrade proteins in their meals, offering more flexibility for picky eaters or those seeking variety.
Although meal kits are typically more expensive than traditional grocery shopping, they offer benefits like portion control, less food waste, and time savings.
Using Cashback Apps to Cut Meal Kit Costs
If you want to enjoy the convenience without paying full price, stacking cashback opportunities is key:
- Rakuten:
Rakuten often partners with HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and other meal kit companies to offer cashback deals. Sign up through Rakuten to activate cashback bonuses on your first order or subscription renewals.
- Ibotta:
Ibotta sometimes includes promotions for meal kits under their “Online Shopping” section. Activate the offer before placing your meal kit order to receive a rebate.
- Fluz:
With Fluz, you can earn instant cashback by purchasing discounted gift cards from retailers that sell meal kits. For instance, if you use Sam’s Club or BJ’s Wholesale Club to purchase discounted HelloFresh or Home Chef gift cards, you can save even before placing your order.
Pros and Cons of Meal Kits
Pros:
- Convenience: Pre-portioned ingredients save time on meal prep and grocery shopping.
- Variety: Explore new cuisines and recipes without much effort.
- Less Waste: No need to buy large quantities of ingredients you might not use again.
Cons:
- Cost: Meal kits are generally more expensive per serving compared to traditional grocery shopping.
- Portion Size: Some find portions small for hearty eaters.
- Subscription Management: Forgetting to skip or cancel can lead to unwanted deliveries.
Final Thoughts: Are Meal Kits Worth It?
Meal kits like HelloFresh, Blue Apron, and Home Chef offer undeniable convenience and culinary exploration. If budget is a concern, strategic use of cashback apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Fluz can help you enjoy these services without breaking the bank. Whether meal kits are worth it ultimately depends on your lifestyle, food habits, and how cleverly you stack your savings.
