Hello Fresh: Worth it or not? My Honest Opinion

So, here’s a funny story… I keep thinking it hasn’t been that long since I wrote a review for Hello Fresh. But get this: it was actually way back in 2017! Seriously, where does the time go?

I know, I know, it gets old talking about it, but does anyone else feel like we lost a big chunk of life during Covid? I mean, no wonder 2017 feels like it was just yesterday!

Let me start by saying I am not being compensated by Hello Fresh for this review. I paid for this box like everyone else and will write an honest review based on these facts. The only small amount of compensation I will receive is if you decide to order through my links. 

So, what is Hello Fresh?

Why do I like the idea of Hello Fresh?

How does Hello Fresh Arrive?

Inside, you’ll find pre-portioned ingredients, clearly labeled and organised by recipe, along with easy-to-follow recipe cards. This thoughtful packaging ensures that everything stays fresh and makes meal prep a breeze.

Non refrigerated ingredients will be organised into numbered bags which will correspond with the recipe card it is matched with. 

How to Organise the Ingredients when they arrive?

I like to sort through the box as soon as it arrives. The reason for this is to check dates and ensure all of the ingredients are including and fresh. 

When your Hello Fresh box arrives, the first step is to unpack and sort through the ingredients. Here’s a simple way to get organised:

1. Unpack Immediately: As soon as you get the box, open it up and remove all the ingredients. This ensures everything stays fresh.

2. Check the Recipe Cards: Lay out the recipe cards that come with your box. These cards will guide you on what ingredients go with each meal.

3. Sort Ingredients by Recipe: Use the labeled bags or containers provided to separate the ingredients for each meal. If the ingredients aren’t already grouped, create your own organisation system by using resealable bags or small containers.

4. Store Properly: Place perishable items like meats, dairy, and some vegetables in the fridge. Store pantry items like spices, grains, or certain vegetables in a cool, dry place.

5. Schedule Your Meals: Decide the order in which you’ll prepare the meals based on ingredient shelf life and your weekly schedule. For example, cook meals with more perishable ingredients earlier in the week. I like to write the use-by dates on the recipe card.

How does Hello Fresh Taste?

One of the biggest questions on everyone’s mind when considering a meal kit delivery service like Hello Fresh is, “How does the food taste and are the ingredients good quality?” Well, let me dive into my experience to give you a comprehensive answer.

As I mentioned, I first reviewed Hello Fresh back in 2017 and I don’t think the quality has changed. 

Related Article: Hello Fresh my review

First off, let’s talk about taste. The recipes from Hello Fresh are designed by professional chefs and nutritionists, so they’re not only delicious but also well-balanced. Each meal brings a variety of flavours, from hearty comfort foods to light and fresh dishes. The recipes often incorporate a mix of spices and seasonings that elevate the dishes beyond what you might typically cook at home.

I’ve found myself impressed with the creativity of some meals, discovering new favourite flavour combinations and cooking techniques. The step-by-step recipe cards make it easy to achieve these flavours, even if you’re not a seasoned cook. I have so often taken some of the new cooking techniques and flavours into some of my own cooking styles. For example I will never boil green beans again! I now steam them in butter and garlic in a frying pan… they are literally divine. 

The produce is usually crisp and vibrant, the meats are fresh and tender, and the pantry items, such as spices and grains, are of good standard. They claim to work with trusted suppliers to ensure that everything that ends up in your box meets their standards for quality and sustainability. For instance, their seafood is often sustainably sourced, and they aim to provide antibiotic-free chicken and pork.

One thing that stands out is how fresh everything is. The ingredients are carefully packaged to maintain their freshness during transit. The box is insulated, and ice packs are included to keep everything cool. This means even if the box sits at your front door for a few hours, your ingredients should still be in great shape when you unpack them.

Furthermore, the pre-portioned ingredients are a big plus. Not only does this cut down on food waste, but it also ensures that you’re using fresh ingredients in every meal. Since everything is portioned out for you, you’re not left with half-used bunches of herbs or opened packets of specialty items that might go to waste.

I’ve also noticed that Hello Fresh includes ingredients that I might not typically buy on my own, which has expanded my culinary horizons. Things like unique spice blends, lesser-known vegetables, or interesting grains add a gourmet touch to the meals. This variety keeps things exciting and helps break the monotony of the usual weekly meal rotation.

Of course, there are occasional hiccups, as with any service. Sometimes, you might find an ingredient that isn’t up to par or receive a slightly bruised vegetable. However, Hello Fresh’s customer service is responsive and usually quick to address any issues, often providing credits or replacements when necessary.

---

Is Hello Fresh Compatible with Slimming World?

Hello Fresh can be compatible with Slimming World, but it requires a bit of customisation and mindfulness. Here’s how you can make it work:

1. Choose the Right Recipes: Opt for recipes that emphasise lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains.

2. Modify Ingredients: Some Hello Fresh recipes might include ingredients that are high in Syns, such as creamy sauces, cheeses, or oils. You can adjust these recipes by using lower-syn alternatives or reducing the quantity of higher-syn ingredients. For example, use low-fat dairy products instead of full-fat, or use cooking spray instead of oil.

3. Portion Control: Pay attention to portion sizes. While Hello Fresh provides pre-portioned ingredients, you might need to adjust these portions to align with your Slimming World plan. For instance, you might increase the portion of vegetables while reducing the portion of starchy foods or high-calorie ingredients.

4. Track Your Syns: Keep a record of the Syns in each meal to ensure you stay within your daily allowance. This might require some research to determine the Syn values of certain ingredients used in the recipes.

---

Is Hello Fresh Good for Someone Following a Calorie Deficit?

Hello Fresh offers a specific meal category called “Calorie Smart,” designed for those looking to manage their calorie intake. These meals are typically around 600-650 calories per serving, making it easier to stick to your daily calorie goals without compromising on flavour or satisfaction. The recipes in this plan are crafted to be nutritionally balanced, incorporating lean proteins, plenty of vegetables, and healthy carbs.

These meals are perfect for anyone following a calorie deficit or other weight loss plans such as Slim Fast.

Common Q&A’s

Do you get decent portion sizes?

Yes, you do get decent portion sizes with Hello Fresh. The meals are designed to be balanced and satisfying, providing a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. Most users find the portions ample enough to satisfy an average adult’s appetite, and the pre-portioned ingredients help with portion control, making it easier to stick to dietary goals. If you have a larger appetite, you can easily bulk up the meals with additional vegetables or side salads. I will occasionally get a bag of prawn crackers or garlic bread to accompany meals. 

Is it a nightmare to cancel?

Cancelling Hello Fresh is generally very easy, but it’s important to understand the process to ensure a smooth experience. The cancellation process can be completed online through your account settings. Here are the steps:

1. Log In to Your Account: Access your Hello Fresh account through their website or app.
2. Navigate to Account Settings: Go to the ‘Account Settings’ or ‘Subscription’ section.
3. Select Cancel Plan: Find the option to cancel your plan and follow the prompts. You might be asked to provide a reason for cancellation.
4. Confirm Cancellation: Make sure to confirm your cancellation and check for any email confirmation to ensure it’s processed.

Be mindful of the timing; cancellations need to be made before the weekly cutoff date, which is usually five days before your next delivery. If you cancel after this period, you might still receive and be charged for one more box.

Can I skip weeks if I am going on holiday?

Yes, you can skip weeks if you are going on holiday. Hello Fresh allows you to easily manage your delivery schedule through your account settings. Simply log in, navigate to the ‘My Menu’ or ‘Delivery Schedule’ section, and select the weeks you want to skip. This flexibility ensures you won’t receive any unwanted deliveries while you’re away, and you can resume your subscription seamlessly when you return. Just make sure to make these changes before the weekly cutoff date to avoid any charges.

My Final Thoughts

Fatgirlskinny rating: 8/10