Blue Apronclaimsthe grocery store is 70 percent more expensive than its service.
Home Chef cites aTV news investigationthat found a slight savings over groceries.
So, how can these companies claim theyre cheaper?
In part, because they decide what well be comparing.
Typically the meals dont share any components, and they often involve an exotic ingredient or two.
If youre smart about this, you could save a ton of money.
Lets take a look at what a week of Blue Apron costs, and what our alternatives are.
Most of the items I put in my cart were bigger than I needed.
For example, a five-pound bag of flour when the recipe called for a tablespoon.
And inthatcase, Id probably want to roast enough pork to have leftovers for sandwiches, too.
So Id buy a big tenderloin instead of a one-pound portion.
In fact, I could extend this strategy to some of the side dishes.
And the Total Is…
I used FreshDirect prices for everything except the Tandoori seasoning, which I found on another website.
(In fact, I ownall the ingredients, so I could mix my own.)
Alternative strategy: Cook what you know (or can reasonably acquire).
Less fun but more practical.
(you might see my calculations inthis spreadsheet.)
Heres what I mean about leftovers.
They give some to you, and some to your neighbor down the street.
But Im not actually that smart and savvy all the time.
Im busy, and when Im not being busy, Im kind of lazy.
You know what I eat when I dont have a Blue Apron box on my doorstep?
I eat whatever I can buy cheap in the frozen section at Trader Joes.
Alternative strategy:Kati pouches, which I am aware are basically hot pockets.
Alternative strategy: just get something delivered.
In total, the cost of $20 per meal is fine.
Its not amazing, but its not a ripoff either.
Otherwise, Trader Joes and takeout are always there for you, and theyre cheaper.
More on meal delivery services from G/O Medias partner.
