We know there are small lifestyle changes each of us can make to help the planet but could ordering from one food delivery company over another be one of those changes? For those enjoying its convenience, the food delivery/meal kit trend that has exploded recently will likely last, and surprisingly, after some research, it turns out meal kits CAN also be a step in the right direction for the environment.

For example, HelloFresh's carbon footprint is 25% lower than that of meals made from store-bought groceries. This is due to:

• A more streamlined supply chain (cutting out middlemen and additional shipping)
• A better grasp on ingredient procurement (HelloFresh knows how many subscribers they have each week, and through data, they also know which meals are most likely to be chosen by customers. This allows them to better understand which ingredients they need to buy and how much of each one.)
• More efficient distribution to customers (reducing greenhouse gas emissions)
• Pre-measured ingredients means less food waste

And to put the icing on the cake, HelloFresh has committed to offsetting 100% of their carbon emissions through a partnership with Terrapass. Here are 5 solutions that HelloFresh has come up with to reduce or optimize its packaging:

1. The Paper Cooling Pouch

HelloFresh has a cooling pouch that is made from recycled paper. By having “air cushions" between the individual layers of paper, insulating properties are maintained and potentially melted water is kept from leaking. These pouches are re-recyclable, too.

2. The Water-based Iced Pack

Normal ice packs are produced by mixing water with a polymer, creating a gel containing microplastics, which are not recyclable. So, HelloFresh developed 100% recyclable water-based ice packs: they even launched their first in-house production of water-based ice packs in the UK to minimize the environmental impact. They now produce these ice packs in Australia, New Zealand, and Canada cutting down CO2 emissions.

3. The Ice Configurator

Supply chains of different lengths have different cooling requirements based on the duration of the transport. The outside temperature and the ingredients delivered, result in different amounts of ice needed. HelloFresh has its own ice configurator that uses an algorithm to calculate the exact number of ice packs required to reduce waste.

4. The Packaging Configurator

HelloFresh utilizes algorithms to figure out the space and amount of packaging needed for a specific set of ingredients in their meal kit boxes. Their very own packaging configurator defines the most resource-efficient type of packaging to combine with their key objectives: functionality, cost efficiency, and sustainability.

5. The Reusable Box

They are currently testing a “Reusable Box" concept in several markets, including the Netherlands and Australia. HelloFresh is working to develop a reusable box that is not disposed of and recycled but is picked up by their delivery service within the following week, filled with new ingredients, and used again for another shipment.

These are just some of the initiatives HelloFresh has taken on to help the environment. Who knew you could help save the planet and save money?

On top of being environmentally conscious, HelloFresh deserves major props for convenience. They send pre-portioned ingredients that require little to no prep to your doorstep, so you can have dinner ready in 30 minutes or less!

There are 20+ meals to choose from per week including a huge variety of cuisines like Thai, Mexican, Chinese, Italian, American, Moroccan, and more, and their price per serving is way more affordable than takeout. They have plans for vegetarians, meat lovers, calorie-conscious eaters, and families, and the subscription is completely flexible so you can cancel at any time.

If you're looking for a way to make smarter food decisions for the environment while also saving time and money, look no further than HelloFresh.

Family and Friends Special! Our friends at HelloFresh are extending a SPECIAL OFFER to you! Follow this link to get 12 FREE meals ($90 value) across 4 boxes including free shipping on the first box!