GoKawiilWith Factor, HelloFresh’s ready-to-heat meal delivery service, I’ve witnessed this process in real time. Over the six years since the meal kit giant acquired Chicago-founded Factor (previously Factor 75), Factor’s meals have evolved from their roots as essentially protein pills in TV dinner form to something much more sophisticated. It’s also expanded to include flatbread pizzas and frankly delicious smoothies and juice blends.
Not every meal tasted as good as that salmon, of course. And at around $13–17 a serving for dinner, Factor is more expensive than scratch cooking but less expensive than delivery. The cost is comparable, perhaps, to the ready-to-heat meal boxes you might find in your local supermarket deli section, except delivered to your door. Factor also tends to offer steep discounts for the first week or month.
Photograph: Matthew Korfhage Photograph: Matthew Korfhage
After testing four different deliveries of Factor meals over the past two years, here’s my experience.
Factor by the Numbers
Specs Cost per meal $13—17 per serving (usually closer to $14), plus $10+ shipping Meal plan options Choose anywhere from four to 24 meals a week Lowest-cost plan at full price $70 for four meals, not including shipping Size of weekly menu 100+ meal options, plus juices, smoothies, protein shakes, breakfasts, and desserts Gluten-free meals? Most meals made without gluten, but not in a certified gluten-free facility Plant-based meals? About a dozen vegetarian or vegan meal options Other dietary plans or restrictions Meal filters include high protein, low calorie, low carb, low sodium, and keto Prep time A few minutes in the microwave (or less than 10 minutes in an air fryer)
How Factor Works and Who It’s For
Like all prepared meal delivery services, Factor is a lot like ordering a week’s worth of meals from a restaurant—in this case, one of HelloFresh’s regional kitchens. Factor’s website will ask you a few questions about your preferences, ranging from allergens to whether you’re looking to up your protein levels or lose weight.
Photograph: Matthew Korfhage
Then you’ll be asked to choose the number of meals you want to order a week—and the day you want them delivered. In general, the more meals you order per week, the less they cost. Most fall in a modest 600-calorie range. The following week, a box arrives at your door with your chosen selection of meals, plus some ice packs.
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