Are Food Subscription Companies Worth the Buzz?
We Chose HelloFresh for a Comprehensive Review, Assessing Recipes, Delivery, and Value for Money to Aid Your Subscription Decision.
Thinking of signing up to a recipe box subscription service? We put HelloFresh to the test, covering the quality of the ingredients, recipes and delivery experience, as well as value for money.
Overview of HelloFresh Recipe Box
Pros: Varieties of cultural cuisines with exciting flavours; ‘rapid recipes’ for speedy cooking requiring few utensils and pans.
Cons: Potential for food waste upstream in the supply chain; some repetitive sides and complexities with different serving sizes.
Overall rating: 4.5/5
What is HelloFresh?
HelloFresh was founded with the vision to provide hassle-free cooking experiences at home using fresh ingredients. Initiated by chef Patrick Drake, formerly of the prestigious Fat Duck restaurant, HelloFresh initially operated from Drake’s house, sending out recipes to subscribers. Though the core idea remains, the service has evolved to offer various box options tailored to different needs, including ‘healthy’, ‘family’, and ‘rapid’ choices, with vegetarian options also available.
HelloFresh Recipe Choices
Offering over 37 recipes weekly, HelloFresh boasts an extensive selection of meals, making decision-making challenging. Ranges like Premium, Gastropub, and Street Food diversify the offerings, while labels like Spicy and Extra Spicy help in making informed choices. Besides dinner recipes, HelloFresh now includes lunch, brunch and dessert options, with menus available up to a month in advance.
Is HelloFresh Healthy?
Emphasising fresh, home-cooked meals, HelloFresh promotes a healthy eating lifestyle. Most recipes strike a balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and fresh vegetables. With clear labels indicating low-calorie and WeightWatchers approved options.
How Many Recipes Do You Get with HelloFresh?
Subscribers can opt for three, four, or five recipes per week, with servings for two, three, or four people, offering flexibility in meal planning.
First Impressions of Delivery
Initial impressions of the delivery box were positive, with fresh ingredients neatly organised and labelled. Though large, the box accommodated multiple meals adequately.
What’s Included in a HelloFresh Box?
The box contains numbered recipe cards, corresponding ingredient paper bags, and a well- insulated pouch for refrigerated items. Recipes come with step-by-step instructions and photographs, simplifying the cooking process.
Refrigerated Ingredient Packaging
Chilled items are adequately insulated and maintained freshness upon delivery. Dry ingredients are also securely packed, with occasional items needing refrigeration.
Delivery Options and Packaging
Delivery allows for selecting specific days, accommodating busy schedules. Packaging, while still considerable, shows efforts to reduce plastic usage.
Value for Money
HelloFresh offers good value, especially considering the convenience of doorstep delivery with all necessary ingredients included. Costs vary based on the number of servings and meals selected.
Ease of Recipe Preparation
Recipes are straightforward, suitable even for novice cooks. They offer interesting, healthy eating inspirations with easy-to-follow instructions.
Food Waste Considerations
Minimal food waste is observed, although potential upstream waste exists due to pre-portioned ingredients.
Finished Recipe Quality
Recipes yield generous portions with high-quality ingredients. Finished dishes are flavourful and satisfying.
Who Would Benefit Most from HelloFresh?
Ideal for individuals seeking fresh, convenient meal options without the hassle of planning and shopping. Its versatility suits various household types.
Favourite Aspects of HelloFresh
The ease of preparing fresh meals from scratch and the continual inspiration from diverse recipes and seasonal ingredients stand out.
Subscription Terms
Cancellation is hassle-free, with online options available, including skipping weeks when needed. Star Ratings
• Ease of cooking: 4/5
• Quality of finished recipes: 4.5/5 • Packaging: 3.5/5
• Quality of ingredients: 4/5
• Value for money: 4/5
Ready to sign up for HelloFresh? get 65% Off Your First Box and 30% Off Your Next 2 Boxes.