BEST MEAL BOX SERVICES FOR TWO PEOPLE IN THE UK: A DETAILED ANALYSIS
Choosing the best meal box service for two people in the UK can be quite a personal decision, as it depends on your dietary preferences, budget, and convenience needs. This article evaluates some of the most popular services and their potential impacts on your monthly expenses.
Popular Meal Box Services in the UK
Gousto
Gousto is well-known for its variety, offering a wide range of recipes, including vegetarian and family-friendly options. This service is highly versatile, making it suitable for a diverse audience.
Cost: Gousto typically charges around ￡2.98 per serving. For two people ordering four meals a week, the average monthly cost is approximately ￡239.20. This can fluctuate slightly depending on promotions and specific meal choices.
HelloFresh
Another popular choice, HelloFresh is recognized for its balanced meals and diverse recipe offerings, including quick meals and calorie-smart options. It’s a great option for individuals looking to maintain a healthy and varied diet.
Cost: HelloFresh starts at around ￡3.25 per serving. Ordering four meals a week for two people would result in a monthly cost of approximately ￡260. Similar to Gousto, prices can vary based on promotions and specific meal selections.
Mindful Chef
Focusing on healthy and nutritious meals, Mindful Chef offers a range of dietary options, including gluten-free and vegan choices. This service is particularly beneficial for those with specific dietary needs and preferences.
Cost: Mindful Chef charges approximately ￡5 per serving. For two people ordering four meals a week, the monthly cost is around ￡320. As with other services, costs can vary based on promotions and specific meal choices.
SimplyCook
SimplyCook provides recipe kits with pre-measured spices and sauces, allowing users to incorporate their own fresh ingredients. This creative option gives users the flexibility to control their cooking experience.
Cost: SimplyCook is priced at around ￡1.50 per recipe. However, you will need to buy the fresh ingredients separately, which can add additional costs.
Are Meal Boxes Worth It?
Despite the higher costs, meal box services can offer numerous benefits:
Convenience
Meal boxes save time on meal planning and grocery shopping. This can be particularly appealing for busy individuals or families, reducing the stress and time associated with daily meal preparation.
Variety
These services provide a diverse range of recipes, which can help combat mealtime boredom and provide a fresh dining experience every day.
Waste Reduction
Many services aim to reduce food waste by providing precise ingredient amounts, ensuring that fewer ingredients go to waste and are used efficiently.
Cost Comparison
While they may be more expensive than cooking from scratch, meal boxes can save money compared to takeout or dining out. They often offer value for money, especially when considering the convenience and variety they provide.
Average Monthly Cost
If you opt for services like Gousto or HelloFresh, you can expect to pay between ￡239 and ￡260 per month for four meals a week. This monthly cost can fluctuate based on promotions, plans, and specific meal choices.
Conclusion
Meal boxes can be a worthwhile investment for those looking for convenience and variety in their meals. However, if you enjoy cooking and meal planning, traditional grocery shopping might be a more cost-effective option.
Choosing the right meal box service for you and your partner depends on your specific needs and preferences. It’s important to consider factors such as dietary requirements, budget, and convenience to find the best fit for your lifestyle.