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Author Mirela Niculae
Mirela Niculae
Updated on Mar 19th, 2024
Fact checked by Emma Vince

10 Best Meal Delivery Services for Athletes in 2024 

When your days are structured around workouts, it can be hard to find time to plan balanced meals, shop for groceries, and focus on meal prep. Thankfully there are plenty of modern-day meal kits out there that contain all the protein, fiber, and healthy fats you need to help you fuel and recover from your training sessions. 

To help you out, my colleagues and I have put many meal delivery services through their paces to pull together a list of the top 10 specifically for athletes. No more struggling to count macros and calories – these services do it for you! 

Factor is my top choice. Offering prepared dishes made from high-quality ingredients, this service takes care of all the prep work, so you can have lunch or dinner ready in minutes, whether you’re at your desk or just getting home from the gym. It also caters to diets such as keto and has plant-based options.

There’s something for every kind of athlete on this list – whatever your taste, budget, or preferences. 

Short on Time? Here Are The Best Meal Delivery Services for Athletes

  1. Factor – Best prepared meals for athletes

  2. Green Chef – Best for keto meal kits

  3. Blue Apron – Best wellness plan For athletes

  4. HelloFresh – Best healthy meals for families

  5. Home Chef – Best for customizable proteins

See 5 more meal delivery services

The Best Meal Delivery Services for Athletes Reviewed

1. Factor – Best Prepared Meals for Athletes

A plate of the Keto Ranch Chicken meal from Factor

Key Features

Factor is a standout choice for athletes with targeted prepared meals. It offers diet-friendly, fuss-free meals that are perfect for those with a busy lifestyle, requiring minimal preparation time. Choices include meals with high protein and lower carbs (if that’s what you’re into!). 

What’s on the Menu?

Factor's menu features a dynamic lineup of low-carb, keto-friendly dishes, with many options also focusing on low-calorie and high-protein content. This variety caters to a range of dietary preferences and health goals.

The service also includes plant-based meals, like the Three Bean Vegan Chili with Cornbread Casserole and Tofu Crema or the Peanut Buddha Bowl. These dishes offer delicious ways to incorporate meat-free days into your week while still maintaining a high protein intake.

Each meal is single-serving and arrives fresh, and fully prepared for convenience. All you need to do is heat them in the microwave, making mealtime quick and effortless, without compromising on nutritional value or taste.

What Makes It Special?

Factor stands out with its range of add-ons, including smoothies, cold-pressed juices, keto-friendly snacks, and high-protein breakfast options. These extras provide additional convenience and variety to your meal plan.

The service offers extra pre-cooked proteins like salmon and chicken filets, as well as no-cook picnic packs. These options vary weekly, adding to the flexibility and diversity of the meals you can choose from. My colleague tried Factor for himself – and, as an athlete, he was pleasantly surprised with the quality.

A unique aspect of Factor is the complimentary 20-minute session with an in-house nutrition coach upon sign-up. This feature is invaluable for those seeking guidance on weight loss, fitness, or overall dietary improvements, with further optional programs available.

Is It Good Value?

Factor’s meals start at $10.49 per serving, with options to order between 6 and 18 meals per week. While it’s 1 of the more expensive services, the premium ingredients, high-protein dishes, and convenience justify the cost for many.

The service’s focus on health, combined with the quality of its meals and the convenience it offers, makes Factor a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing nutritious, hassle-free dining options. 

2. Green Chef – Best For Keto Meal Kits

A bowl of healthy shrimp soup from Green Chef

Key Features

Green Chef’s specialty is organic meal kits. This service is dedicated to helping customers craft their own healthy meals with easy-to-follow recipes and high-quality, handpicked ingredients. The menu is diverse and features a variety of cuisines from around the world. Learn more about it in my colleague’s Green Chef review.

What’s on the Menu?

Green Chef's menu is rich in variety, featuring recipes inspired by global cuisines. Dishes like Peanut Chicken with Udon Noodles and Middle-Eastern Style Beef Bowls offer a culinary journey around the world.

Each plan, including Keto, Plant-Based, and Mediterranean, caters to different dietary needs, ensuring there's something for everyone. The range of options means you can enjoy a diverse diet while adhering to your dietary preferences or requirements.

The service also offers a Quick & Easy menu for those busy nights. These meals can be prepared in 25 minutes or less, making them perfect for evenings when time is limited but you still want a nutritious, home-cooked meal.

What Makes It Special?

Green Chef’s plans are designed as a guide to recommend meals that suit your lifestyle, but you always have access to the wider menu when placing your order. This flexibility is ideal for households with varied dietary preferences.

The quality of the dishes is a standout feature. Many recipes come with prepped ingredients like chopped veggies and ready-to-use seasonings, streamlining the cooking process without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Sustainability is a key focus for Green Chef. The packaging is made from recyclable, reusable, or compostable materials, aligning with the service's commitment to environmental responsibility. This emphasis on sustainability extends to their sourcing of ingredients as well.

Is It Good Value?

Servings from Green Chef start at $9.99 for the largest plan size, catering to up to 6 people. This pricing makes it a great option for larger households, offering a balance between quality and cost.

The service allows you to choose between 2, 3, or 4 recipes per week for 2, 4, or 6 people. This range of options provides flexibility in both the number of meals and the size of the servings, accommodating different budgets and household sizes.

3. Blue Apron – Best Wellness Plan For Athletes

Blue Apron's Seared Salmon and Walnut-Cilantro Sauce

Key Features

Blue Apron is perfect for athletes who are short on time with meal kits and prepared meals. It further stands out with its Wellness plan, offering meals that are ideal for an athletic diet. These meals are not only nutritionally balanced but also cater to specific dietary needs, with a focus on veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins. Learn more in my colleague’s Blue Apron review.

What’s on the Menu?

Blue Apron offers Meal kits and Prepared & Ready meals as well as an Add-Ons section. You can’t mix and match the meal types so if you want prepared meals and kits, you’ll need to create 2 orders. The menu caters to both omnivores and those preferring plant-based alternatives, with some customization available.

The menu draws inspiration from the Mediterranean diet, known for its abundance of fruits, vegetables, seafood, legumes, and nuts. This approach ensures meals are rich in unsaturated fats, like olive oil, and high in protein. A great selection of vegetarian dishes is also available each week, providing options for all dietary preferences.

Blue Apron has even more quick-cook options in its Add-Ons section. These include frozen prepared meals like Miso Sesame Chicken with Brown Rice and Vegetables, vibrant salads, deserts, and a la carte proteins.

What Makes It Special?

Blue Apron's prepared meals are designed for convenience, requiring just a few minutes in the microwave. This feature is ideal for those needing a quick meal without much prep time. Most meal kits, on the other hand, take about 30 to 40 minutes to prepare.

The recipes provided by Blue Apron are incredibly user-friendly. Our reviewer noted that the step-by-step instructions, complete with photos and follow-along videos via the Blue Apron app, make cooking simple and enjoyable. This ease of use is a significant advantage for those new to cooking or with limited time.

Blue Apron also offers Ready to Cook options, such as Oven-Baked Hoisin Eggs and Rice with Mushrooms and Snow Peas. These meals come with ingredients that only need assembly in the provided recyclable pan. Additionally, in the Blue Apron Market you can order Meal Kit bundles, seasonal boxes, and packs of prepared meals.

Is It Good Value?

Blue Apron's pricing starts at $3.74. Subscription options start at 2 meal kits for 2 people or 6 prepared meals per week. There also doesn’t appear to be a hard limit. This competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for those seeking quality meals at an affordable rate.

You can choose from a range of plans, including 2, 3, 4, or 5 Meal Kits for either 2 or 4 people, or 6, 8, or 10 Prepared & Ready meals per week. This flexibility allows individuals and families to select a plan that best fits their lifestyle and budget, ensuring value for every meal.

4. HelloFresh – Best Healthy Meals For Families

A chicken and bulgur recipe from HelloFresh

Key Features

  • Seasonal, farm-fresh produce

  • More than 100 recipes and other items on the menu each week 

  • Dietary options include protein- and calorie-smart, pescatarian, and more

HelloFresh offers a large menu of family-friendly meals. With over 100 weekly recipes and market items, it’s a great solution to mealtime monotony. This service provides a convenient way to plan diverse meals without the hassle of ingredient shopping and our reviewer was pretty impressed when they cooked HelloFresh at home.

What’s on the Menu?

HelloFresh's menu includes over 100 recipes and extras each week, catering to various tastes and preferences. Options range from family-friendly dishes to sophisticated culinary creations. The menu offers flexibility in meal planning, ensuring a fresh experience every time.

Family-friendly choices are a hallmark of HelloFresh, with dishes designed to please even the pickiest eaters. Meals like Chicken, Zucchini, and Tomato Flatbreads blend kid-appeal with nutrition. Each dish is crafted to be both appealing and nourishing, with some allowing for customizations.

For those with specific dietary needs, HelloFresh offers tailored plans. These include Meat & Veggies, Pescatarian, and Fit & Wholesome options. Each plan caters to different lifestyle and dietary preferences, from balanced meals to protein-rich dishes for active individuals.

What Makes It Special?

HelloFresh prioritizes sustainably sourced proteins and locally-grown produce. This commitment to quality ingredients ensures meals are both delicious and environmentally responsible. The focus on sustainable sourcing is a key differentiator for health-conscious consumers.

In addition to meal kits, HelloFresh’s online marketplace offers a variety of food items. Customers can purchase quick-cook lunches, breakfasts, sides, and additional proteins like steak and salmon. This extensive selection enhances the overall meal-planning experience.

Accessibility to the full menu is a standout feature, regardless of the chosen plan. Whether it's Meat & Veggies, Pescatarian, or Fit & Wholesome, subscribers have full menu access. This includes a range of carb- and calorie-smart options, along with easy prep and cleanup recipes.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing for HelloFresh starts at $3.32 per serving, positioning it as an affordable option in the meal kit market. This price point makes it an attractive choice for those seeking both quality and value. The affordability extends to various plan options, catering to different household sizes and preferences.

HelloFresh’s value proposition extends beyond cost savings. It offers convenience, quality ingredients, and a diverse menu, making it a sustainable choice for athletes and health enthusiasts. With options for up to 6 recipes per week for 2 or 4 people, it caters to a range of dietary and lifestyle needs.

5. Home Chef – Best For Customizable Proteins

A plate of a slice of salmon with a side of rice and veggies, depicting a recipe option from Home Chef

Key Features

  • Wide range of meal types to suit all schedules

  • 30+ recipes on the menu each week, plus extras 

  • Dietary options include vegetarian, carb- and calorie-conscious

Home Chef caters to those seeking quick, familiar meals with a customizable touch. This service is ideal for families or individuals aiming to meet specific dietary goals with ease.

What’s on the Menu?

Home Chef's menu features a variety of meals, including carb- and calorie-conscious options. These meals contain less than 35 g of carbs and less than 625 calories per serving. Additionally, vegetarian entrees are available, and many meat-based meals can be modified to be vegetarian.

The service offers a range of meal types to suit different time constraints and cooking preferences. Customers can choose from Express Meal Kits, Oven-Ready Meals, and Fast & Fresh dishes. These options range from 15-minute preparations to more involved 30-40 minute Culinary Collection meal kits.

Home Chef also provides a selection of extras, including smoothies, sides, snacks, and salads with pre-cooked proteins. Additionally, protein packs like ground turkey, chicken breast, salmon filets, and Italian sausages can be added to orders. These extras offer additional flexibility and convenience.

What Makes It Special?

Home Chef's standout feature is the Customize-It option, which allows customers to adjust protein types and quantities. This feature caters to varied dietary preferences and needs, including options to double up on proteins or switch them entirely, sometimes even to organic options.

The service is especially accommodating for families, with the ability to customize orders to feed up to 6 people. This flexibility makes it a convenient option for larger households or those looking for leftovers to meet weekly nutritional goals. Learn more in my colleague’s Home Chef review.

Home Chef's diverse range of meal options caters to different cooking times and skill levels. From quick microwaveable dishes to more elaborate meal kits, there is something for every schedule, whether it's a busy weekday or a leisurely weekend.

Is It Good Value?

Home Chef's pricing starts at $7.99 per serving and meals are individually priced. The largest box size you can order is 6 meals for 6 people. This pricing structure offers value, especially for families or those seeking bulk meal options.

However, it's important to note that certain protein customizations can affect the overall cost. While these customizations provide flexibility and variety, they may lead to a higher price per serving, depending on the choices made.

6. BistroMD – Best Meal Plan For Weight Loss

BistroMD's Chicken, Rice & Cheddar Casserole

Key Features

  • Portion-controlled for those on rigorous diets

  • 150+ meals on a rotating weekly menu 

  • Dietary options include keto, gluten-free, vegan, and more

BistroMD specializes in prepared meals for simple weight loss. If you're aiming to manage your calorie intake and are seeking a structured approach to your meals, BistroMD might be worth considering. It offers calorie-controlled dishes designed to take the guesswork out of meal planning. 

What's on the Menu?

BistroMD offers a variety of meal plans, all following either a 1,200 or 1,400 calories-per-day plan. It caters to both men and women, ensuring a balanced nutrition profile with approximately 40% lean protein, 30% complex carbohydrates, and 30% healthy fats.

Program options include Keto-Flex, which is rich in meat, cheese, and eggs, as well as Heart Healthy, Vegan, Diabetic-Friendly, and Gluten-Free plans. The Gluten-Free option is tested to FDA standards and excludes wheat, rye, or barley.

Additionally, BistroMD provides a 100% Vegan meal plan, offering more protein than typical vegan meals while remaining carb-conscious. However, if you require higher-calorie plant-based meals, you may want to explore other options like Fresh N Lean.

What Makes It Special?

BistroMD sets itself apart by providing comprehensive meal plans that cover all your dietary needs throughout the day. It even offers the flexibility to include snacks like whey protein bars, nut mixes, and shakes, eliminating the need for additional grocery shopping.

Its diverse menu features high-protein options like the Artichoke, Spinach, and Roasted Red Pepper Frittata, as well as Smoked Chipotle Pork and Eggs. Moreover, BistroMD offers the convenience of substituting dishes you may not prefer. You can find out more about the menu in our full review.

Beyond meals, subscribing to BistroMD grants you access to online tools and registered dietitians who can support you in achieving your fitness goals. If you're seeking a community-oriented space to stay on track with your fitness journey, BistroMD offers more than just meal delivery.

Is It Good Value?

BistroMD offers pricing starting at $8.24 per serving. You can choose between 5- or 7-day plans, with options for 2 or 3 meals per day, including snacks. However, it's important to note that the 2-meal-per-day plan doesn’t include breakfast.

Whether BistroMD is a good value depends on your specific dietary needs, budget, and preferences. If you value the convenience of pre-planned, calorie-controlled meals and access to registered dietitians, the cost may very well be justified!

7. Eat Clean – Best For Healthy Fast Food

EatClean's Dark Chocolate Chip Keto Pancakes.

Key Features

  • Heat-and-eat meals ready in 3 minutes

  • Around 40+ entrees on the menu each week

  • Dietary options include keto, paleo, plant-based, and traditional

Eat Clean offers prepared meals, ideal for athletes looking for nutritious meals. Its menu features a range of organic ingredients and premium proteins, tailored to fit various dietary preferences. Find out more about it in my colleague’s Eat Clean review.

What’s on the Menu?

Eat Clean’s menu boasts a wide range of cuisine types, including globally inspired dishes. Each meal is crafted to be balanced and nutritious, focusing on health and taste. Options like Ground Turkey Italian Bolognese and 12-Hour Pulled Pork with Plantain Mash exemplify the menu's diversity.

The service caters to several dietary needs, offering keto, paleo, and vegan-friendly options. The Traditional menu is the largest and features over 15 entrees weekly, providing ample choice. These meals are designed to suit different taste preferences while maintaining nutritional balance.

Eat Clean also offers unique takes on popular takeout dishes. Meals such as Turkey Bacon Pita Pizza and Grass-Fed Beef Burger are included in the menu. This approach combines the convenience of takeout with the health benefits of balanced, home-cooked meals.

What Makes It Special?

Eat Clean stands out by offering meals that are ready-to-eat or heat-and-eat. The meals are delivered fresh, with options for both microwave and oven cooking. This convenience is ideal for those with busy lifestyles or minimal time for meal prep.

The service includes a couple of sweet options, like Almond Strawberry Protein Scones and Dark Chocolate Chip Keto Pancakes. These choices are perfect for breakfast or snacks, adding variety to the menu. These dishes are designed to be both tasty and nutritious.

One unique aspect of Eat Clean is the absence of add-ons or customizations, such as extra proteins or snacks. However, they offer an upgrade to larger portions for an additional cost. This feature is particularly appealing to athletes or those with larger appetites.

Is It Good Value?

Eat Clean's pricing begins at $8.89 per serving, positioning it as a budget-friendly option in the meal delivery market. This pricing makes it accessible to a wide range of customers, particularly those mindful of their food budget.

The service offers a range of ordering options, from 4 to 20 meals per week. The value increases with larger box sizes, providing cost-effectiveness for regular customers. This structure benefits those looking to order meals in bulk.

8. Fresh and Easy – Best for Busy Schedules

Fresh and Easy's Mixed Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl with Roasted Sesame Dressing.

Key Features

  • Meal kits, prepared meals, and extras

  • 20+ entrees on the menu each week

  • Dietary options include carb- and calorie-conscious

Fresh and Easy, Home Chef's “quick-cook” plan, simplifies home cooking with minimal prep and cleanup. It combines the convenience of fast meals with access to the rest of Home Chef's broad menu and premium ingredients.

What’s on the Menu?

Fresh and Easy offers a range of meal types, including Oven- and Grill-Ready options and Express meal kits. These meals feature prepared ingredients for quick cooking. The selection is designed to reduce time spent in the kitchen while delivering delicious results.

The menu also includes a variety of Fast & Fresh microwave meals and salad entrees with pre-cooked proteins. These options are perfect for those who need a quick meal without sacrificing nutrition. The pre-prepared nature of these dishes ensures convenience and ease.

For those mindful of their carbohydrate and calorie intake, it offers meals with less than 35 g of carbs and 625 calories per serving. Options like the Mixed Vegetable and Quinoa Bowl cater to health-conscious individuals. It also provides some plant-based customizations, enhancing its appeal to a diverse range of diets.

What Makes It Special?

Fresh and Easy allows for the customization of dishes with different proteins. Customers can swap or double up on proteins like chicken, steak strips, and shrimp. This flexibility lets diners tailor their meals to their personal preferences and dietary needs.

It stands out for its shortcut cooking methods, as highlighted in our in-depth review. Oven- and Grill-Ready meals come in oven-safe trays or grill-safe bags for effortless cooking. This feature is especially beneficial for those with busy schedules or limited kitchen skills.

Despite its focus on quick and easy meals, it doesn’t compromise on quality. Customers still enjoy premium ingredients and a variety of choices, similar to Home Chef's standard offerings. This ensures a high-quality dining experience with every meal.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing for Fresh and Easy starts at $7.99 per serving, making it a competitively priced meal delivery service. The meals are priced individually, offering flexibility in ordering according to budget and needs.

However, it's important to note that protein customizations and added extras will impact the total cost. While these options add variety and personalization, they can increase the overall price, making it essential for customers to consider their choices carefully. 

9. Trifecta – Best High-Protein Prepared Meals

A plate of Trifecta's Chicken Breast, Sweet Potato, Mixed Vegetables Meal

Key Features

  • Macro-balanced, ready-to-eat meals

  • Chef selected or pick your own meals

  • Dietary options include keto, paleo, Whole30-approved, and more

Trifecta specializes in dietitian-approved meal plans for athletes. It offers a range of options, including Clean, Whole30 Approved, Keto, Paleo, and Plant Based, each designed to help you meet your fitness and nutrition goals. Find out more in my colleague’s Trifecta review.

What’s on the Menu?

Trifecta’s menu caters to strict diets with specific plans like Clean, Whole30 Approved, Keto, Paleo, and Plant Based. These plans are fixed to ensure adherence to dietary guidelines, offering meals with the right balance of macros. Each plan is distinct, serving the unique nutritional needs of different lifestyles.

Meal selection is flexible, allowing for personal choice or chef-selected options. The Chef Selected feature suits those wanting to simplify their meal planning. It may be less appealing to picky eaters, but it ensures a varied and healthy diet.

The meals feature high-quality, organic ingredients, with many being gluten-free. Trifecta allows the exclusion of up to 2 disliked ingredients from a predefined list. This customization enhances meal satisfaction while maintaining nutritional integrity.

What Makes It Special?

Trifecta emphasizes high-protein dishes in all its plans. Breakfast options like Sausage and Egg Scramble with Sweet Potatoes and lunch/dinner choices like Korean Beef Bulgogi are typical. All meats and seafood are humanely raised and sustainably caught, reflecting a commitment to quality and ethics.

More than just a meal delivery service, Trifecta provides a supportive community. This community focuses on nutrition education and fitness, enhancing the overall experience. Subscribers receive personalized plans and can use the Trifecta app for tracking progress and accessing resources.

The Trifecta app is a key feature, offering tools to track progress and engage with a supportive community. It includes articles, challenges, and peer support, adding value to the meal service. This approach helps subscribers stay motivated and informed on their health and fitness journey.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing for Trifecta starts at $13.79 per serving, with options to order 5, 7, 10, or 14 entrees per week. The pricing is competitive, considering the quality and specificity of the meal plans. This affordability makes it accessible to a broad range of customers.

The service also offers the option to add a daily breakfast, allowing for comprehensive meal coverage throughout the week. This flexibility in ordering, combined with the quality of the meals, makes Trifecta a value-for-money choice for those seeking a tailored meal plan. 

10. Fresh N Lean – Best For Gluten-Free Meals

Fresh N Lean's Cajun Salmon with Yukon Potato and Tomato Rice

Key Features

  • Certified organic ingredients, locally sourced, and GMO-free

  • 100+ entrees on a rotating weekly menu 

  • Dietary options include keto, paleo, vegetarian, and more

Fresh N Lean offers a convenient way to enjoy healthy, chef-cooked meals by delivering them directly to your door. The meals are designed for ease, requiring just about 3 minutes to heat and serve, making them a great choice for those with busy lifestyles. Find out how athletes benefit from the service in my colleague’s Fresh N Lean review.

What’s on the Menu?

Fresh N Lean's menu includes 8 different plans, catering to a variety of dietary needs and preferences. Each plan offers up to 3 meals a day, ensuring variety and satisfaction for every mealtime. The meals are crafted to be both nutritious and flavorful, appealing to a wide range of tastes.

For those who desire more customization, Fresh N Lean offers a Bulk plan. This plan allows a la carte purchases of extra proteins, veggies, grains, and oats. Options include seasoned salmon, cod, chicken breast, tofu, and flat-iron steak, providing a wealth of choices to complement the main meals.

A standout option is the vegetarian menu, which features fresh, organic produce with eggs and dairy in some entrees. Each serving provides about 10 g to 25 g of protein. This plan is ideal for those following a plant-based diet who still require high protein intake.

What Makes It Special?

Fresh N Lean meals are certified gluten-free, making them an excellent option for individuals with allergies and intolerances. The commitment to high-quality, antibiotic- and GMO-free ingredients ensures a healthy and safe dining experience for all customers.

The Protein + plan is specifically designed for athletes, focusing on higher amounts of animal protein and complex carbohydrates. This plan is tailored to support the energy and nutrition needs of those with an active lifestyle, making it a suitable choice for fitness enthusiasts.

An additional feature of Fresh N Lean is the ability to add extra side dishes to meals. It provides flexibility for users to tailor their meals according to their specific fitness goals.

Is It Good Value?

Fresh N Lean offers meals starting at $7.53 per serving, with the flexibility to order up to 3 meals a day for either 5 or 7 days a week. This pricing structure makes it an affordable option for those seeking healthy, chef-cooked meals delivered to their doorstep.

The option to add a la carte meals or snacks does affect the overall cost, but it provides additional flexibility. This flexibility allows customers to tailor their meal plans to their specific needs and preferences, making it a value-for-money choice for a personalized dining experience.

Bonus: Purple Carrot – A Great Choice for Vegan Athletes

Two bowls of vegan Brussels sprouts and chickpeas

Key Features

  • Offers prepared meals and kits
  • 16 weekly dishes, plus Plantry extras
  • Dietary options include gluten-free, nut-free, and high protein

Purple Carrot stands out as an excellent choice for vegan athletes, offering meals that are both delicious and nutrient-rich. The service specializes in high-end plant-based meal kits and prepared meals. Each meal is packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals for optimal athletic performance for vegans.

What’s on the Menu?

Purple Carrot's menu features a variety of dishes with Asian, Mediterranean, and Middle Eastern influences. These meals are crafted to be flavorful and clean, with a focus on whole, unprocessed ingredients. Vegetables are the star of each dish, offering a healthy and satisfying dining experience.

High-protein meals are a key part of the Purple Carrot menu, with each dish boasting over 25 grams of protein. For example, the Mango-Glazed Brussels and Chickpeas meal provides 31 g of protein and 23 g of healthy plant-based fats. These meals are designed to aid in recovery and muscle growth, while also supplying ample energy for rigorous workouts.

In addition to their regular meal kits, Purple Carrot offers Less Prep meals for busy days. These meals come with premade sauces and pre-chopped vegetables, saving time and effort. For those with very limited time, Purple Carrot also provides prepared meals that only require heating before eating.

What Makes It Special?

Purple Carrot prioritizes putting vegetables at the forefront of its dishes rather than relying on processed meat substitutes. This approach ensures that meals are fresh, nutrient-dense, and focused on natural ingredients. It's a healthy alternative for those looking to eat clean without sacrificing taste.

The service is not just for vegans; it's an excellent option for anyone wanting to incorporate more plant-based nutrition into their diet. Purple Carrot's meals have been enjoyed by omnivores and vegans alike, as noted by our reviewer who tried and loved the meals despite not being vegan.

Purple Carrot’s Plantry is an extension of its meal service, offering vegan breakfast items and pantry staples. This includes vegan desserts, cashew cheese, and other items to increase vegetable intake. The Plantry makes it easy and enjoyable to add more plant-based options to any diet.

Is It Good Value?

Pricing for Purple Carrot starts at $8.50 per serving, with a minimum order of 3 meal kits, each containing 2 servings. This pricing structure positions Purple Carrot as a reasonably priced option for high-quality vegan meals.

The service also offers prepared meals in bundles of 6, 8, or 10, catering to different needs and schedules. This flexibility, combined with the quality and variety of the meals, makes Purple Carrot a good choice for those seeking convenient, nutritious vegan meals.

Quick Comparison Table

Top Plans
Top Plans
Factor75 logo
Green Chef logo
Blue Apron logo
Hello Fresh logo
Home Chef logo
BistroMD logo
Eat Clean logo
Fresh & Easy logo
Trifecta logo
Freshnlean logo
Purple carrot logo
Our Rating
Our Rating
9.8
9.7
9.6
9.6
9.5
9.5
9.3
9.5
9.3
8.7
9.4
Starting Price
Starting Price

$10.49 Per Serving

$9.99 Per Serving

$3.74 Per Serving

$3.32 Per Serving

$7.99 Per Serving

$8.24 Per Serving

$8.89 Per Serving

$7.99 Per Serving

$13.79 Per Serving

$7.53 Per Serving

$8.50 Per Serving

Minimum Order
Minimum Order

6 prepared meals

3 meals for 2 people

2 meals for 2 people

2 meals for 2 people

2 meals for 2 people

10 prepared meals

4 meals

2 meals for 2 people

7 meals

5 prepared meals

3 meal kits for 2 people/6 prepared meals

Meal Types
Meal Types

Prepared meals

10-45 minute meal kits

5 - 60 min meal kits and prepared meals

Meal kits, speedy kits, prepared meals

Kits, speedy kits, oven-ready

Prepared meals

Prepared meals

Oven- & grill-ready, kits, prepared

Prepared

Prepared meals

Meal kits, prepared meals

Prep Time
Prep Time

2-3 min

25-40 min

5-45 min

5-50 min

5-50 min

2-3 min

3 minutes

15-30 min

0-3 min

3 mins

3-40 min

Active Deals
Active Deals

Tips for Choosing the Best Meal Delivery Services for Athletes

If you’re not sure what to look for when choosing an athlete-approved meal delivery service, here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Make sure you’re getting enough calories: Athletes burn more calories, so they need a higher-than-average calorie count. All of the services on my list clearly list the calories in each meal, so you can stay on track. In order to keep your body fueled, choose a service that offers larger portions, like Eat Clean, or a service that allows you to add extras to each meal. For example, Home Chef’s Customize It feature lets you double the protein for certain meals. 

  • Ensure that you are consuming the correct macronutrients. Athletes require a different proportion of carbohydrates, protein, and fats compared to an average individual, particularly if you're adhering to a diet such as keto. Fitness-oriented services such as Trifecta or Fresh N Lean can perform these calculations and balance each meal for you.

  • Choose the right level of convenience. How much time do you have between workouts or training? If you don’t have time to cook, healthy prepared meals like those from Factor will be the best choice, as they just need a few minutes in the microwave. However, if you like to spend time in the kitchen, try a meal kit service like HelloFresh. Another benefit of meal kits is that you can order a larger size (for 2, 4, or 6 people) and batch-cook meals for when your schedule is busier. 

  • Consider other dietary preferences: Beyond your nutritional needs, you might have health goals or allergies to consider. Green Chef stands out for its flexibility, offering Plant-Based, Gluten-Free, and Keto plans. If you're a vegan athlete, Fresh N Lean offers 2 specialized plant-based options.

  • Look for extras to support your athletic lifestyle: Services with add-on menus can help support your fitness journey. Staying hydrated is important for athletes who sweat a lot, so as well as drinking water, consider adding extra smoothies to your order from a service like Factor. If you’re looking to bulk up, you’ll want a service where you can add extra food to your weekly order. Green Chef offers plenty of meat and fish add-ons, while Fresh N Lean has a Bulk menu of premium proteins and organic veggies.

FAQ

What is a good meal plan for an athlete?

Factor came top of my list as the best meal delivery service for athletes. As a service that delivers fresh, balanced, ready-made meals to your door each week, it works well for anyone with a busy schedule and active lifestyle. It caters to a number of dietary needs, including keto, plant-based, and high-protein diets.  

What is the best dinner for bodybuilders?

Fresh N Lean is my top choice for bodybuilders, thanks to its Protein+ and Bulk menus. You can add additional sides, veggies, and proteins to your order to make sure you’re hitting all your macronutrients in each meal.

What is the healthiest premade meal delivery service?

Factor is my top pick for athletes who want super speedy and healthy prepared meals. It caters to a number of health-focused diets, like keto, and all the meals are dietitian-approved. Extra nutrition coaching is also available for an extra fee.  

What is the best vegan meal delivery service for athletes?

Green Chef has an excellent selection of vegan meals for athletes. Its Plant Based menu has vegetarian and vegan meal kits that are healthy and high in protein, and you can find gluten-free and low-calorie options, too.

Is there a healthy version of HelloFresh?

Green Chef is a premium meal delivery service owned by HelloFresh and it ranked highly on my list for athletes. It features high-quality, organic ingredients and caters to several health diets like keto, vegan, and high protein. HelloFresh still ranked highly on my list, though. Its Protein Packed category in particular is designed to support fitness goals.  

What are the potential health benefits of using a meal delivery service for athletes?

Meal delivery services for athletes are designed to provide nutritionally balanced, protein-rich, and portion-controlled meals that will support their training and recovery. Services like Green Chef can also help athletes support their active lifestyle while catering to specific dietary needs or preferences, like gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan, or low-carb.

How much do meal delivery services for athletes cost?

On average, you can expect to pay between $8 to $20 per meal, although the exact cost will depend on the type of service and diet plan. In general, meal delivery services specifically designed for athletes can be more expensive due to larger portions and premium ingredients. Most services offer better value for larger orders, and all of the services on my list offer discounts for new customers.

Best Meal Delivery Services for Athletes in 2024 — Final Score

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