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7/20/2019

Following A Certain Diet? Then You Need Our Ultimate Guide To Meal Prep Delivery Companies

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Meal Prep Companies: The Not So New Innovation

Meal prep companies in the past five years have exploded on to the scene, with Blue Apron starting the trend customers have become enamored with the idea of healthy, gourmet, pre portioned meals being delivered to your door.

Whether you are a super busy single parent, entrepreneur or trying to meet a physical health goal through adhering to a certain diet, you will more than likely find a solution within the meal prep delivery service industry.

Because I am certain by this point you at least have a general idea of how a meal prep company operates I won't bore you with the minutia. This guide is designed to help you quickly assess the benefits these 40 meal prep companies have to offer and categorizes them in a way that lets you quickly jump to the category that fits your goal.

​So now without further delay, here is your ultimate guide to choosing the best meal prep delivery service, enjoy!

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Paleo 

For all my fans of the Paleo diet plan, these meal prep delivery services are designed for your specific dietary needs in mind. Going Paleo can be a rough journey since your trying to limit your diet to the foods that were consumed when we were cavemen, however the rewards for your self discipline are worth it!

Green Chef

Founded in 2014 Green Chef is a meal prep delivery company dedicated to providing its customers with the highest quality ingredients and caters to numerous types of diets such as Paleo, Keto, Mediterranean and Vegan.

As of 2018 Green Chef has teamed up with Hello Fresh which is another large contender in the meal prep delivery service industry. This partnership should produce some exciting results that are sure to benefit both customer bases in the future. 
Green Chef Prices:

​$11.99 per meal / $78.93 per box plus shipping
Vegetarian
Omnivore
Vegan
Gluten-free
Pescatarian
Heart Smart
Mediterranean

$12.99 per meal / $84.93 per box us shipping
Lean and Clean
Paleo
Keto

$10.99 per meal / $94.91 per box
Family Plan
Green Chef Benefits:
  • Green Chef solely uses certified USDA organic food 
  • Makes following even the hardest diets easier as they do all the thinking for you
  • Eco friendly packaging
  • Recipes are easy to prepare and most of the prep work is done for you
Bottom Line:
Green Chef is at the top of the hierarchy in terms of taste and the amount of dietary plans they cater to, the only counter weight to this luxury is that you are going to be paying a higher price than you would for similar services such as Blue Apron.  If you do not mind the price difference, Green Chef is definitely a great option for those looking to reap the rewards that come with adhering to the healthy diet plan of their choice while not having to deal with the hassle that comes with planning the meals. 

Sun Basket

Sun Basket is a meal prep delivery company that was founded in April of 2014 by by chef Justine Kelly and tech entrepreneur Adam Zbar. Justine Kelly was a contender in Iron Chef and all meals from Sun Basket are personally created by her then reviewed by their in-house dietitians before being put on the menu. 

Most meals are between 500-800 calories which is ideal for those looking to lose weight through maintaining a caloric deficit.  All their ingredients are Organic and they cater to those who are adhering to the Paleo, Vegan and Gluten Free diet plans.
Sun Basket Prices:
Sun Basket pricing is very simple, there are two plans the family and classic. The Family Plan is $10.99 per meal and the Classic is $11.99. 

If you choose the classic plan, you have the option of picking three recipes for either two or four people.


2 people = 
$71.94  per week 
4 people = $143.88 per week


For the family plan, the meal portions are for four people and you can choose two,three or four recipes per week.

2 recipes = $87.92 per week
3 recipes = $131.88 per week
4 recipes = $175.84 per week
Sun Basket Benefits:
  • Easy service that allows you to choose your meals or automate it by having their in-house chef choose for you
  • Meals delivered on a weekly basis and can easily skip a week or weeks
  • Offers vegetarian, paleo and gluten free friendly options for both meal plans
  • All ingredients are organic and locally sourced
  • One of the few meal plan services that offers breakfast options
  • Little nuances (like peeling the garlic for you) make the cooking process faster ​
Bottom Line:
Sun Basket currently delivers to 34 states, and is certified organic and non-gmo by the Federal Drug Administration. Those who have tried and reviewed Sun Basket give it high marks for flavor and have also been pleased with their generous portion sizes which allows for left  overs the next day. Sun Basket is a great choice for those looking to not just supplement dinner and lunch but breakfast as well as they are one of the few companies that provide this option. Definitely a great choice for those who are looking for help with adhering to the Paleo diet plan.

Trifecta Nutrition

Founded in 2015, Trifecta Nutrition is dedicated to providing organic healthy meals at a affordable price.  Trifecta is a popular choice among athletes and is currently the official meal prep delivery service for the UFC. 

Trifecta Nutrition delvers to all 50 states, besides the Paleo dietary plan they also cater to those who adhere to the vegan,vegetarian  and Keto dietary plan. You have the option of choosing one of their 5 meal plans or ordering items ala carte.

Trifecta Nutrition differs because they are a no-cooking required meal delivery service. All meals come pre-cooked and frozen which means all you have to do is pop it in the microwave or oven and enjoy! 
Trifecta Nutrition Prices:
There are structured plans for all of their options with the exception of their "Classic" plan. This is because with this plan you are building your own menu and the price varies by the plate you choose.  
PALEO
5 days / 2 meals per day: $147.90
5 days / 3 meals per day: $214.35
5 days / 4 meals per day: $275.80

7 days / 1 meal per day: $108.43
7 days / 2 meals per day: $207.06
7 days / 3 meals per day: $300.09
7 days / 4 meals per day: $386.12


Vegetarian

5 days / 2 meals per day: $112.90
5 days / 3 meals per day: $161.85
5 days / 4 meals per day: $205.80

7 days / 2 meals per day: $159.46
7 days / 3 meals per day: $226.59
7 days / 4 meals per day: $288.12


Keto
5 days / 2 meals per day: $149.90
5 days / 3 meals per day: $217.35
5 days / 4 meals per day: $275.80

7 days / 1 meal per day: $108.43
7 days / 2 meals per day: $209.86
7 days / 3 meals per day: $304.29
7 days / 4 meals per day: $386.12


Vegan
5 days / 2 meals per day: $113.90
5 days / 3 meals per day: $161.85
5 days / 4 meals per day: $205.80

7 days / 2 meals per day: $159.46
7 days / 3 meals per day: $226.59
7 days / 4 meals per day: $288.12

Trifecta Nutrition Benefits:
  • All meals only need to be heated, no need to cook
  • All ingredients are %100 organic
  • Consistently rotating menu based on availability of freshest ingredients
  • Can order every other week rather than every week which is more ideal for some budgets
  • No shipping fee
  • Caters to the vegan, vegetarian and paleo diet plans
Bottom Line:
Trifecta Nutrition is one of the top choices you can turn to if your looking for a no cook option that doesn't skimp on quality or taste. Because Trifecta Nutrition is dedicated to serving only the freshest ingredients, this means their menu changes based on what items are available that season, this could be a bummer for those who like to eat the same thing consistently. If that doesn't bother you, than I encourage you to give Trifecta Nutrition a try!

Paleo Power Meals

Paleo Power Meals was founded in 2013 by Michael DePaolis who while working as a chef, began adhering to the Paleo Diet Plan and performing cross fit. Long story short, he loved the results so much that he created a company dedicated to helping others achieve the same.

​Paleo Power Meals boasts a menu that carries at least 50 different items all of which are Paleo friendly and delicious. If you are looking for an absolute solution to your Paleo dietary needs than they got you covered, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and Snacks!

If you are looking to load up on a favorite type of food, Paleo Power Meals offers the option of ordering in bulk and the prices are far from unreasonable. 
Paleo Power Meals Prices:
The price for Paleo Power Meals tends to vary as each dish is priced differently, below is a list of price ranges based on what we found on the website:

Average Prices

​Bulk 1lb: $10.95 – $14.95

​Breakfast: $5.95 – $9.95

Lunch: $8.95 – $12.95

Dinner: $10.95 – $14.95

Sides/Non-Paleo Sides: $5.95 – $6.95

Also note that if you live out side of the Massachusetts area you will more than likely need to pay a shipping fee. You have the option of how you would like the product shipped predicated on the amount you order, choosing ground shipping is the cheapest option.
Paleo Power Meals Benefits:
  • ​Great for those who are wanting to start the Paleo DIet Plan
  • High points for taste from customers, being able to order in bulk makes meal planning even easier
  • Wide variety of options for different tastes
  • Consistent menu so if you enjoy something you can count on it being there
  • Price breaks when you order certain amounts of product
Bottom Line:
Paleo Power Meals is one of the go to meal delivery services for those looking to delve head first into the Paleo lifestyle. Their website is super user friendly making it easy to quikcly order what you want and move on with your day. Because the Paleo diet is so restrictive, their menu does not tend to change much. This is great for those who like solid consistency but may not be ideal for those who LOVE eating different foods every week. If you are convinced the Paleo diet is for you and want to skip the hassle of planning out meals than this service may be for you.

Freshly

Freshly was founded in 2012 and is a US meal prep company that is based in NY. They specialize in gourmet meals that require 0% cooking. Their meals are not frozen, but are delivered fresh and prepared, all that is required is that you heat them up. 

Freshly offers multiple different plans depending on how many people you have to feed and how many meals you desire. They currently have a menu that has over 30 items on it and people have been raving about how just a few minutes in the microwave creates a meal that tastes like they spent hours slaving in the kitchen.

Because Freshly's meals come pre-prepared it is not possible to adjust the meals should have have an intolerance or allergen. However they do have a very easy key that tells you which menu items are vegetarian and Paleo friendly. Freshly also delivers to all states in the continental US (No Alaska or Hawaii).
Freshly Prices:
Freshly delivers once a week, and the price varies on how many meals you order per week, it appears all their meal plans include FREE SHIPPING:

4 meals = $12.50 per meal / $49.99 per week

6 meals = $9.99 per meal / $59.99 per week

9 meals = $9.99 per meal / $89.99 per week
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12 meals = $8.99 per meal / $107.99 per week
Freshly Benefits:
  • No mess no fuss easy to warm up meals
  • Easy to choose your meals for the week and different options make it easy to cater to certain diets
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner options
  • features all-natural ingredients, free from artificial additives, gluten, and refined sugars.
  • Nutrition information included in every meal so you know exactly what your getting and what meals adhere to what diet plans
Bottom Line:
Freshly is a prime option for those who don't want frozen meals, but also are not to keen on doing the heavy work that comes with preparing a gourmet meal. Their menu changes every week so you will rarely find your self bored with the selection of dishes to choose from. Freshly has relieved high marks from those who have reviewed it and say that the meals, despite coming from the microwave, taste as if they just spent hours slaving away in the kitchen, Some people (fresh or frozen) can't stand the idea of cooking a meal in the microwave, if that is the case you have the option of heating them up in the oven you will just need to remove the meal from its cardboard container. If you are looking for a meal prep delivery service that offers options for your Paleo needs, than I suggest you give Freshly a try!

Eatology Kitchen Studios

Eatology Kitchen Studios began in Bryan, Texas and was founded by Lauarah Lawson. They specialize in deliviring delicious frozen meals that are 100% Paleo friendly. Eatology Kitchen Studios stands ouit because of the shere volume of meals they offer their customers. You have the optiopn of choosing between two sizes medium (2b) and large (3b), each meal is a "block" and each block provides an optimally balanced ratio of ​30% protein/ 40% carbs and 30% fats.
Eatology Kitchen Studio Prices:
The pricing for Eatology Kitchen Studios varies depending on how many meals you order and whether you choose to have it automated or not.

You have the option of choosing between "stacks" of 10,15, and 21 meals, shipping costs are $25 per week for 1-15 meals and $50 per week for 21+ meal plans. Regardless of what you order all medium (2b) meals are $10.50 and large (3b) meals are $12.75. 

If you choose to automate your orders, than Eatology Kitchen Studios will give you a discount, which can save you up to 20%!
Eatology Kitchen Studio Benefits:
  • No need to cook, simply warm up the meal and your good to go
  • Large number of choices all of which are Paleo friendly
  • Delivers to all states in the US
  • Offers breakfast lunch and dinner options
  • Gluten Free and Paleo Friendly 
Bottom Line:
Eatology Kitchen Studio is an amazing choice for the Paleo dieter looking to skip the cooking and dive into delicious tasting meals that are as unique as they are healthy. Although they have one of the highest shipping costs, Eatology Kitchen Studio more than makes up for this in their variety as well as the generous discounts they provide when you choose to automate the order. 

Those who have tried Eatology are raving about the taste, also if you are a macro counter like myself, they are an absolute godsend since their meals are all equally portioned.

If you currently on the Paleo diet plan or are looking to start, Eatology Kitchen Studio is a GREAT starting point. Check them out today!

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Vegan

Choosing to go Vegan can be one of the most difficult dietary choices one can make but it doesn't have to be! Now you can reap the rewards of a purely plant based diet without being bogged down by the minutia of ensuring everything you eat is free of any animal by-products.
Green Chef: Click Here To Jump To Description

Purple Carrot

Founded in 2014, Purple Carrot is the first and only meal prep company that is completely dedicated to those who choose to adhere to the vegan diet. Purple Carrot has attracted some powerful partners and investors such as Whole Foods and Del Monte making it a strong contender in the meal prep delivery service market. 

Purple Carrots options are very simple, they have three meal plans; Chef's choice, Quick & Easy and High Protein. We took a look at their website just recently and it appears they only offer one option in terms of the amount of meals and that is three dinners serving two people each week. 
Purple Carrot Prices:
Purple Carrot delivers to all 50 states and shipping is always FREE.  Each plate is $12, since they currently only offer three dinners for two people each week the current price is $72 per week. 
Purple Carrot Benefits:
  • Makes adhering to the vegan diet easy and delicious
  • Easy to follow instructions ​
  • Easy to cancel and skip meals using app and program
  • No delivery fee
  • Delivers to all 50 States
Bottom Line:​
Purple Carrot stands out from the rest of the companies that are competing in this industry as one of the only meal prep delivery services that offers an 100% plan sourced meal kit. Those who have tried Purple Carrot have suggested you at least have a basic to intermediate understanding of cooking as some of the dishes can be complex.

The unique niche they have carved in the market, coupled with the fact they deliver to the entire country free of cost makes Purple Carrot an enticing option for those who wish to go Vegan.   

Daily Harvest

Founded in 2014, Daily Harvest is unique because they do not actually deliver meals. Instead, Daily Harvest provides Smoothies, Bowls,  Lattes and Soups all of which are 100% vegan. 

As you can probably guess there is no cooking involved with Daily Harvest, for the smoothies you simply add the desired liquid (milk,water etc) and blend. As for the other items, the most manual labor you will find your self doing is assembling (in the case of the bowls) or warming up (if your trying one of the soups) which makes Daily Harvest a great option for the Vegan on the go.
Daily Harvest Prices:
Daily Harvest appears to have recently changed their pricing plan, it appears they no longer offer the six smoothies a week and have opted for 9.  Here is the most recent pricing for their items:

$69.75  for 6 cups a week ($7.75 per cup)

$89.88 for 12 cups a week ($7.49 per cup)

$167.76 for 24 cups a week ($6.99 per cup)

$167.76 for 24 cups a month ($6.99 per cup)
Daily Harvest Benefits:
  • If you are looking to go vegan, this is a great option for you
  • Easy to make, no cooking required, delicious and unique mixtures
  • Perfect for those who are looking to lose weight but aren't interested on cooking
  • Menu changes with season which allows for a consistently unique experience 
  • Has a reward program where you can earn points to get free items 
Bottom Line:​​
 Daily Harvest is great for those who are looking for a unique twist on what the normal meal prep delivery service provides. If you are a vegan and you find it difficult to balance your dietary choice with your busy lifestyle, Daily Harvest may be the answer to your prayers. In looking at the response from customers we saw a couple that stated they were unhappy with the amount of ice in some of the smoothies, but other than that people are raving about the quality and taste. Check out Daily Harvest today and find out how easy being vegan can be. 

Trifecta Nutrition: Click Here To Jump To Description


Veestro

Veestro was started by a brother and sister team in 2012 who decided to take on the mission of changing the face of frozen food by focusing on quality vegetable ingredients.  Veestro is unique in that it is 100% organic, non-gmo meal and gluten free, so it is a great fit for those who are looking to enjoy great tasting meals without having to check the labels and wonder.
Veestro Prices:
Ala-carte
10 meals  per week / $81.90 
20 meals per week / $216.00
30 meals per week / $297.00


Chefs Choice
10 meals  per week / $81.90 
20 meals per week / $216.00
30 meals per week / $297.00


​Weight Loss
5 day meal plan / $175.50 
7 day meal plan / $226.80
Veestro Benefits:
  • Great for people who are adhering to a strict vegan diet
  • Despite the products being frozen, those who have tried this service say the food tastes homemade
  • Veestro will gladly substitute meals for you, all you need to do is email them​
  • Free shipping when placed on auto order
  • Has a specific meal plan for those who are looking to lose weight
Bottom Line:​​​
​Veestro is a great choice for those who are looking to stay organic and gluten-free in addition to going vegan. Trying to ensure you are only eating foods that fit into even one of those categories is extremely difficult making trying to hit all three appear impossible. With Veestro you can make the impossible possible and even take out the hassle of cooking! 

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Keto

The Ketogenic diet is centered around low-carbs and high fats with the goal of maintaining the state of "ketosis" which is where your body burns stored fat rather than carbs. The Ketogenic diet has been known to assist with weight loss, managing diabetes and greatly reduce the risk of seizures. 

When on the Ketogenic diet you are going to be breaking down your nutrients to  ​75% fat, 20% protein, and only 5% carbohydrates. By doing so, your body should begin burning fat giving you more energy and a greater sense of well-being. 

Muscle Meals 2 Go

Muscle Meals 2 Go  was founded in 2014 and is a meal prep delivery company that is focused on high protein meals that make it easy to meet your macros. They offer four meal plans; classic, lean, gain and keto all specially designed to help you meet your dietary goals.

​Muscle Meals 2 Go provides you two portion sizes, which are 3 and 6 ounces. This allows you to focus on either losing weight through maintaining a caloric deficit or building muscle through the consumption of adequate amounts of protein. 

They ship to the entire continental US (No Alaska or Hawaii) and because all meals come frozen and prepared no need to fuss over cooking. 
Muscle Meals 2 Go Prices:
Classic Plan Lean: Lean
12 meals / $99.00 per week

18 meals / $144.00 per week

24 meals / $180.00 per week
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Classic Plan Lean: Gain
12 meals / $123.00 per week

18 meals / $180.00 per week

24 meals / $234.00 per week


​Keto 6 Day Plan
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$199.00 (Female)
$284.00 (Male)


​Keto Meals
12 meals / $123.00 per week

18 meals / $183.00 per week

​24 meals / $230.00 per week
Muscle Meals 2 Go Benefits:
  • If trying to lose weight, gain muscle or adhere to the keto diet this meal plan has what you need
  • No need to commit because there are no long term contracts
  • Able to control your potions to ensure no waste
  • No mess from cooking, all you need is a microwave or oven
Bottom Line:​​​​
Muscle Meals 2 Go is a highly regarded meal prep delivery service for those who are trying to lose weight or gain muscle through following the Ketogenic diet plan. While a lot of companies who have chosen to provide frozen meals have fallen short on taste in some aspect, Muscle Meals 2 Go has high marks for the fact that these meals taste like they were just cooked. If you are looking for help following your macros and maintaining Ketosis than Muscle Meals 2 Go may be your answer.

Factor 75

Factor 75 was founded in 2013 and is headquartered in Batavia, Illinois, they are completely organic and deliver to everywhere in the continental United States (No Alaska or Hawaii). One thing that makes Factor 75 stand out above the rest of their competition is their commitment to quality. All of their food items are Grass-fed, Pasture-raised, Preservative-Free, Antibiotic & Hormone-Free, Soy-Free, Gluten-free and  Non-GMO.

Another option they offer that is not common among their competition is breakfast. This allows you to take the hassle out of EVERY meal and just focus on maintaining your schedule. 
Factor 75 Prices:
4 Meals $60.00  per week  / $15.00 per meal

6 Meals $77.00 per week / $12.83 per meal

8 Meals $99.00 per week / $12.37 per meal

12 Meals $138.00 per week / $11.50 per meal
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18 Meals  $198.00 per week  / $11.00​ per meal
Factor 75 Benefits:
  • All ingredients are extremely high quality: Grass-fed   Pasture-raised   Preservative-Free   Antibiotic & Hormone-Free   Soy-Free   Gluten-free   Non-GMO
  • One of the most economical meal plans in terms of price
  • Will choose the items for you based on preference but you also have the option of substituting any of the meals for something different
  • Meals are pre-made so no cooking involved, great for on the go.
  • High points for taste from customer reviews
  • Offers breakfast dishes on their menu
Bottom Line:​​​​​
As far as meal prep delivery services go, you will be hard pressed to find another company that matches Factor 75's commitment to quality at the price they offer. They provide a great option for those looking to maintain Ketosis without the need of worrying about meticulously counting macros and cooking. If you are looking for a no-cook solution to your Keto dietary needs  and also want the added benefit of food items that are Grass-fed, Pasture-raised, Preservative-Free, Antibiotic & Hormone-Free, Soy-Free, Gluten-free and  Non-GMO than Factor 75 may be what you are looking for.

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Whole 30 & AIP Protocol

The Paleo Auto Immune Protocol and Whole 30 diets are some of the most restrictive diets out there today.

The Whole 30 diet was developed by Melissa Hartwig and its aim is to radically change the way you interact with food by challenging you to restrict certain foods from your diet for 30 days and than slowly reintroduce them to see how your body reacts. If you are curious to learn more check out this article.

​​The AIP diet is a ultra restrictive paleo diet that is designed to eliminate foods that may trigger inflammation in the gut and focus on consuming nutrient rich foods.  

We have currently found only TWO meal prep delivery companies that caters to both these dietary plans, so if you are looking for help with either one of these the companies below is where to go.

Truefare

Truefare was founded in 2012 and is led by Chef Richard Bradford and Chef de cuisine Amy Crites. It was originally focused on catering to those following the Ketogenic diet but has carved out a unique niche by becoming the only meal prep delivery service that provides meals that fit into the Whole 30 and AIP diet plans.

Truefare provides options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They also allow you to pick meals al a carte should you wish to try one before you commit to a meal plan. 
Truefare Prices:
​Whole 30 & AIP Protocol
10 meals: $139.95 per week / $13.95 per meal
15 meals: $204.95 per week / $13.66 per meal
20 meals: $269.95 per week / $13.50 per meal
 
 
Breakfast
10 meals: $57.95 per week / $5.80 per meal
15 meals: $85.95 per week / $5.73 per meal
20 meals: $109.95 per week / $5.50 per meal
 
Keto / Low Carb
10 meals: $149.95 per week / $14.99 per meal
15 meals:$ 219.95 per week / $14.66 per meal
20 meals: $289.95 per week / $14.50 per meal
 
 
Breakfast
10 meals: $59.98 per week / $5.99 per meal
Truefare Benefits:
  • One of the only meal prep companies that is Whole 30 diet friendly and offers meal plans specifically for the AIP protocol meal plan, which is extremely rare
  • Reasonably priced
  • Over 50 options available to choose from
  • Can order al a carte or subscribe to meal service
  • All ingredients are local and certified organic produce, organic chicken, grass-fed and finished beef, heritage breed pork, Naturally free-range turkey
  • High marks from majority of customers who have reviewed the company
  • Meals come frozen so only need to heat and eat, you can also choose fresh options but only in certain areas
Bottom Line:
As stated in the beginning, Truefare is the only option we have found for those  choosing to follow the AIP or Whole 30 diets. Like a lot of companies their meals are frozen so their is no need to spend any time cooking. Truefare boasts a large menu with over 50 options and is reasonably priced considering they have a monopoly 

Cavemen Chefs
Caveman Chefs was founded in 2014 by Chef Owners David Kenney, Edward Coulombe, and Partner & Operations Manager Zach Kopp who after knowing each other for over 25 years decided to combine their knowledge and skill to create this burgeoning meal prep company. 

Caveman Chefs is unique in that not only do they cater to the AIP AND Whole 30 diets but they also offer options for those who suffer from IBS and are following the FODmap diet.  So far are research has shown that they are the only company that provides this option.

​All ingredients from this company are 100% organic and if you are lucky enough to live in their home state of Colorado then you may be able to just pick up your meals foregoing the deliver charge.  They offer multiple sizes of meals and are one of the few companies that will deliver enough food to feed a family of up to FIVE.
Cavemen Chefs Prices:
Cavemen pricing is pretty simple and it doesn't vary no matter how much food you order, also the charge for each shipment is 

Here is the break down:

Regular Size: $13.75 Per Meal

Large Size: $16.25 Per Meal

Extra Large: $18.75 Per Meal

Family of 2: $28.00 Per Meal

Family of 3: $42.00 Per Meal

Family of 4: $56.00 Per Meal

Family of 5:  $70.00 Per Meal
Caveman Chefs Benefits:
  • Caters to many diets that other companies don’t (Whole 30, AIP, FODmap)
  • If you live in Colorado, you may be able to pick up your items free of the shipping charge
  • No need to fuss with dishes or cooking as all that is required is heat up in the microwave and enjoy
  • Large selection of meals and provides catering if you are looking to host a special even and not wanting to stress about what to make
  • Gives you the option of different sizes including meals that can feed up to a family of FIVE!
Bottom Line:
Caveman Chefs is the go to option if you are suffering from IBS and are looking to follow a diet plan that may provide you some relief while at the same time removing the stress that comes with trying to find meals that fit in with your diet. Although the delivery fee is among some of the highest we have seen so far, this just means that you should order in bulk in order to get the best "bang" for your buck. 

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Vegetarian

While any of the companies listed under Vegan will certainly fit the vegetarian lifestyle, there may be some who wish to enjoy dishes that are outside of the restrictive realm of the Vegan diet. These companies focus and vegetarian options that are delicious and easy to make!

Fresh N Lean

Fresh N Lean was founded in 2010 and is a meal prep delivery company that focuses on delivering meals that are mainly plant based that include only  the highest quality ingredients.  They deliver to all fifty states and there is no delivery fee as long as you subscribe to one of their meal plans. The meal plans that they offer are Performance Protein, Performance Paleo, Standard Plant Based and Low Carb Plant Based.

​These meals come pre-prepped and use only locally-grown, organic, whole-food, nutrient-dense ingredients. The plant based meal options they provide are also suitable for Vegans as well.
Fresh N Lean Prices:
Standard Plant Based
3 meals per week / 5 days: $126.00 per week ($8.40 per meal)
2 meals per week / 5 days: $105.80 per week ($10.58 per meal)
1  meal per week / 5 days: $66.55 per week ($13.31 per meal)

3 meals per week / 7 days: $176.40 per week ($8.40 per meal)
2 meals per week / 7 days: $148.12 per week ($10.58 per meal)
1  meal per week / 7 days: $93.17 per week ($13.31 per meal)


Low-Carb Plant Based
3 meals per week / 5 days: $150.00 per week ($10.00 per meal)
2 meals per week / 5 days: $125.90 per week ($12.59 per meal)
1  meal per week / 5 days: $71.95 per week ($14.39 per meal)

3 meals per week / 7 days: $210.00 per week ($10.00 per meal)
2 meals per week / 7 days: $176.26 per week ($12.59 per meal)
1  meal per week / 7 days: $100.73 per week ($14.39 per meal)

Performance Protein
3 meals per week / 5 days: $165.45 per week ($11.03 per meal)
2 meals per week / 5 days: $128.30 per week ($12.83 per meal)
1  meal per week / 5 days: $77.65 per week ($15.53 per meal)

3 meals per week / 7 days: $231.63 per week ($11.03 per meal)
2 meals per week / 7 days: $179.62 per week ($12.83 per meal)
1  meal per week / 7 days: $108.71 per week ($15.53 per meal)

Performance Paleo
3 meals per week / 5 days: $171.30 per week ($11.42 per meal)
2 meals per week / 5 days: $132.80 per week ($13.28 per meal)
1  meal per week / 5 days: $74.90 per week ($15.98 per meal)

3 meals per week / 7 days: $239.82 per week ($11.42 per meal)
2 meals per week / 7 days: $185.92 per week ($13.28 per meal)
1  meal per week / 7 days: $111.86 per week ($15.98 per meal)
Fresh N Lean Benefits:
  • Free Shipping and Handling to all 50 states
  • No cooking required
  • ​Great options for those following the vegetarian diet plan
  • One of the most reasonable priced for offering all three meal options (Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner)
  • Can order al a carte or subscribe to meal service
Bottom Line:
Fresh N Lean is a great option if you are looking for meals made with high quality ingredients that require no cooking to enjoy. Although there have been some mixed reviews on taste,  the majority of those who have tried this service are pleased with the results. ​The fact that they deliver to all 50 states free of charge coupled with their already reasonable prices make them a solid choice for the vegetarian looking to enjoy the convenience that comes with using a meal prep delivery service. If you are interested in trying Fresh N Lean than click below!

Home Chef​

Home Chef began in 2013 and is currently one of the most popular meal prep delivery companies out there per the online community. While they are not completely focused on the vegetarian diet plan they do have an ENORMOUS selection of dishes that those who are following the vegetarian diet can enjoy. 

Home Chef delivers perfectly portioned ingredients along with colorful and detailed cooking instructions. Most of their meals only require the basic cooking tools and are ready in 30-45 minutes. Per their website, Home Chef is available in 98% of the United States and offer free shipping on all orders that are above $40 and do NOT charge sales tax.
Home Chef Prices:
Home Chef pricing is pretty straight forward as all their meals are $9.95. You have the ability to chose the amount of meals you get per week, the maximum being 36.  If your like me your not a big fan of doing math so here is a break down of what you are looking to pay:

Four Meals: $39.80 Per Week

Six Meals: $59.70 Per Week

Eight Meals: $79.60 Per Week

Ten Meals: $99.95 Per Week

Twelve Meals: $119.40 Per Week

Sixteen Meals: $159.20 Per Week

Twenty Meals: $199.00 Per Week

Twenty Four Meals: $238.80 Per Week 

Thirty Meals: $298.50 Per Week

Thirty Six Meals: $358.20 Per Week
Home Chef Benefits:
  • One of the top meal prep delivery services in terms of popularity
  • Gourmet status meals delivered to your door with easy to follow instructions
  • ​Will choose the items for you based on preference but you also have the option of substituting any of the meals for something different
  • Large list of options for those wanting to stick to the Vegetarian diet plan
  • Great customer service and easy to skip weeks or cancel service 
  • No Sales Tax or Delivery Charge on orders over $40
​Bottom Line:
Home Chef is an awesome choice if you are looking to bolster you cooking skills by preparing delicious meals with the help of colorful and easy to follow instructions. With their stellar customer service, simple pricing plan and commitment to providing top notch dishes to their customers, it is no wonder Home Chef has rocketed to the top in terms of popularity. Try Home Chef today and discover some amazing Vegetarian dishes that are sure to blow you away!

Hello Fresh

Hello Fresh was founded in 2011 and is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. Similar to Blue Apron,  Hello Fresh focuses on quality ingredients and easy to follow cooking plans. They also have helpful video tutorials on their website.

Hello Fresh is another company that allows you to flex your cooking muscle while providing just enough guidance to ensure the experience is enjoyable every time. They offer three plans, Veggie, Classic and Family. The max amount of dishes you can receive per week under any plan is 12, and the prices vary depending on what plan you choose. 
Hello Fresh Prices:
​Veggie Plan
Six Recipes: $53.94 per week + $6.99

Eight Recipes: $71.92 per week + $6.99

Twelve Recipes: $83.88 per week + $6.99

Classic Plan
Four Recipes: $39.96 per week +$7.99

Six Recipes: $53.91 per week + $7.99

Eight Recipes: $71.92 per week + $7.99

Twelve Recipes: $89.88 per week + $7.99

Family Plan
Eight Recipes: $62.96 per week +$6.99

​Twelve Recipes: $89.88 per week + $6.99
Hello Fresh Benefits:
  • ​High quality ingredients and easy to follow instructions. Also packaged very well.
  • Unique and fancy dishes which make this an excellent and cheaper alternative to dining out
  • Easy to customize your meal plan with weekly emails. You can customize by preference and dietary choices
  • Has a program that gives you the ability to earn points which you can use to send free.boxes to friends (great gifts!)
​Bottom Line:
Hello Fresh, similar to Home Chef, is a great choice for those who enjoy the experience of preparing their own meals but with the hassle of choosing ingredients and figuring out what to cook removed. Hello Fresh dishes have some of the lowest fat content which is ideal for those trying to adhere to a low-fat diet. Their high-quality ingredients and top notch customer service make them a great choice for any Vegetarian looking to try out a meal prep delivery company. 

Blue Apron

Blue Apron was founded in 2012 and is widely known as the company that started the "Meal Kit Delivery Craze" and many companies have sprung up as a result. Rather than focusing on a particular diet such as Keto or Paleo, Blue Apron is all about high end restaurant style meals that you can make from the comfort of your home. They do  have a Vegetarian option which is why they have made it under this category.
Blue Apron Prices:
Signature Plan
2 Recipes per week $47.95 + $7.99 Shipping ($9.99 per serving  / Serves 4 people)

3 Recipes per week $59.94 Free Shipping ($9.99 per serving / Serves 6 people)

Signature Plan For 4
2 Recipes per week $71.92 + Free Shipping ($8.99 per serving  / Serves 8 people)

3 Recipes per week $95.88 Free Shipping ($7.99 per serving / Serves 12 people)

4 Recipes per week $119.84 Free Shipping ($7.49 per serving / Serves 16 people)

​Freestyle (Weight Watchers)

2 Recipes per week $47.95 + $7.99 Shipping ($9.99 per serving  / Serves 4 people)

3 Recipes per week $59.94 + Free Shipping ($9.99 per serving / Serves 12 people)

Vegetarian
2 Recipes per week $47.95 + $7.99 Shipping ($9.99 per serving  / Serves 8 people)

3 Recipes per week $59.94  Free Shipping ($7.99 per serving / Serves 12 people)

Blue Apron Benefits:
  • Delicious meals and clear cooking instructions
  • The Blue Apron Website Is a great resource for cooking instructions if you need help
  • One of the most reasonably priced Meal Prep Services for the quality it delivers 
  • Reduced pricing for first time orders
​Bottom Line:
Blue Apron is a great option if you are looking to elevate your cooking level and impress your friends with delicious meals that you usually would only be able to get at a restaurant. Blue Apron does not certify any of its items are GMO or Organic, so if that is a big issue for you than you may wish to choose another option. The only other gripe that has been seen in some reviews is a difficulty in canceling the service,  other than that Blue Apron is an excellent choice if you are a Vegetarian that enjoys eating out often. 

Gobble

Gobble was founded in 2010 and is now partnered with Walmart. They deliver ready to cook meals with all the tedious work completed, all that should typically be required to make a meal is one pan. While Gobble does not cater to any specific diet plan, they do have a "From the Earth" menu which is suitable for Vegetarians.

Gobble is a popular choice for families as the meals are quick to make and satisfying for everyone at the table. They also have solutions for all meal times (breakfast/lunch/dinner) and will even provide snacks as well.  With Gobble there is no limit to what you can order so no matter how large of an army you have to feed Gobble has got you covered.
Gobble Prices:
Gobble is one of the most straightforward in terms of their prices, while most meal prep delivery services required us to go to their website and break down their pricing plan, one of Gobble's employees, Paul, was kind enough to break it down for us in their FAQ.

​We have pasted his explanation below:
2 People:
  • Our “2-Person Plan” members will, by default, receive 6 meals each week (in Gobble terms, that’s three different dinner kits, perfectly portioned for two people to enjoy at once).
  • Choose whatever dinner kits appeal to you! Although we will automatically generate each week’s order based upon your meal preferences, we have no restrictions on what kits you can choose each week. The entire menu is available to every single member, regardless of what your meal preferences are.
  • Each meal is $11.99. This means that if you order 3 dinner kits (6 meals), it will be $71.94 for your weekly delivery, plus $6.99 for shipping.

​4 People:
  • Our “4-Person Plan” members will, by default, receive 12 meals each week (in Gobble terms, that’s three different dinner kits, perfectly portioned for four people to enjoy at once).
  • Choose whatever dinner kits appeal to you! Although we will automatically generate each week’s order based upon your meal preferences, we have no restrictions on what kits you can choose each week. The entire menu is available to every single member, regardless of what your meal preferences are.
  • Each meal is $11.99. This means that if you order 3 dinner kits (12 meals), it will be $143.88 for your weekly delivery, plus $6.99 for shipping.

Minimum Order:
Our minimum order is 2 dinner kits (4 meals) in order to schedule a delivery. If you do order only four meals for that week, our price per meal is $13.99 ($55.96 total, plus $6.99 for shipping).

Maximum Order:
The sky's the limit! If 6 or 12 meals are not enough, you are always welcome to add more meals to your weekly delivery (be sure to check out our sides, soups, and desserts as well). Our customers have even been known to host full dinner parties by simply ordering more dinner kits for the week...don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone that you haven’t been stressing out in the kitchen all day! ;)

New customers will receive free shipping on their first box! ​
Gobble Benefits:
  • Delicious meals that only require one pan to cook
  • All the “annoying” parts of the cooking process are done for you(peeling, slicing, prepping etx)
  • Add ons such as sides and desserts allow  you to customize your meal
  • No limit to how many meals you can order
  • Currently partnered with Walmart 
Bottom Line:
Gobble is an excellent choice if you are a Vegetarian with a large family and are looking for the home cooked meal taste without the need of having to put in the manual labor. All ingredients that Gobble uses are local sourced and they give you complete control over when you receive your items to ensure it fits in with your schedule. Due to their recent partnership with Walmart we expect them to expand into the market explosively allowing them to become a major competitor in the meal prep delivery industry. There have been some concerns about quality and customer service per the consumer advocate, but the majority of comments are positive when it comes to reviews. If you are looking for a Vegetarian option and you have an army to feed, than Gobble may be the answer your looking for.

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Mediterranean 

Those who follow the Mediterranean diet try to eat foods that those living in Greece and Italy would have consumed back before 1960. Studies have shown that this diet can help with ​Mediterranean diet can cause weight loss and help prevent heart attacks, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and premature death.  To date we have only found one meal prep delivery service that service that caters to the Mediterranean diet, check it out below!

Terra’s Kitchen

Terra's Kitchen was founded in 2015 and is headquartered in Washington DC. One of the unique qualities of Terra's Kitchen is there strong stance against waste going so far as to -to reuse the containers they send with the food in it up to 100 times. Terra's Kitchen's main focus is on the Mediterranean cuisine but they also have options for those looking to adhere to the Paleo, Vegetarian and Gluten-free diet plans.
Terra's Kitchen Prices:
Terra's Kitchen gives you the option of choosing meals that cook for 2-4 people and each meal has a different price depending on the ingredients and intricacy of the dish. Shipping is free on orders above $100 and $4.95 otherwise. The minimum amount you can order per week is $72
Terra's Kitchen Benefits:
  • Because meals are individually priced, you have more control of your budget and the easy to use interface makes it simple to adhere to some of the most difficult diets
  • For those who are waste conscious, Terra’s kitchen is for you, their dedication to recycling and reusing is a step above all their peers
  • Includes recipe cards like most meal kit companies, but they include facts and history which makes the meal more personable
  • An excellent choice if you wish to follow the Mediterranean diet as all these dishes adhere to this
  • Provides sides and drinks as well
​Bottom Line:
Terra's Kitchen is a great (and perhaps the only) option for those who love the Mediterranean diet and are looking to lose weight. All their dishes contain high end ingredients that are responsibly sourced, and this company takes extra steps to ensure they are taking care of the environment. One of the few potential downsides of this service is the fact you have to return the receptacle you receive the ingredients in at the same place you received it, they are also not very clear on where they deliver. A special touch Terra's Kitchen adds to their menu cards is history and facts about the food you are enjoying, it is a small touch but great if you appreciate that type of attention to detail. If you are looking for a way to enjoy the benefits of the Mediterranean diet and cut out the struggle of deciding what to cook than Terra's Kitchen is for you!

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Gluten Free

The prominence of those who attribute negative health to an intolerance to wheat (also known as Celiac Disease) has exploded and the food industry has responded by providing a large selection of items that have no gluten in them. Naturally, the meal prep delivery service industry has also followed food and quite a few of them cater to those who wish to follow a gluten-free diet. 

Plated

Plated began in 2012 and is now owned by Albertsons, they are another company that. similar to Blue Apron, focuses on restaurant style meals using high quality ingredients. Plated delivers to all of the United States with the exception of some areas in Texas and Hawaii/Alaska. 

They do have meals that cater to Vegetarians, but in browsing through their meal plans we did not see enough options to add it to the list. We did however, see an abundance of options for Gluten-Free meals all which looked absolutely delicious.

Plated also offers desserts as well which is rare for a meal prep delivery company, 
Plated Prices:
With Freshly you can choose how many servings you would like per night and how many nights per week you would like to cook. They even provide a helpful guide that lets you know how many people each plan will likely feed (EG: 2 servings per night = Great for: leftover lovers, 1 adult + 2 kids, 2 adults). The price for meals is very simple, $11.95 per meal for the 2 servings per night plan and $9.95 for the 3-4 servings per night plan:

Two Servings Per Night
2 nights per week: $47.80/week

3 nights per week: $71.70/week

4 nights per week: $95.60/week

Three Servings Per Night
2 nights per week: $59.70/week

3 nights per week: $89.55/week

4 nights per week: $119.40/week

Four Servings Per Night
2 servings per night /2 nights per week: $79.60/week

3 servings per night / 3 nights per week: $119.40/week

4 servings per night / 4 nights per week: $159.20/week
Plated Benefits:
  • Fresh high quality ingredients delivered to your door with easy to follow instructions
  • An eclectic mix of dishes ensure that you always have something new to enjoy
  • Offers dessert options
  • Let's you know the difficulty of each dish cooked so you can adjust to your preference
  • Have the option of switching the delivery day anytime you wish
​Bottom Line:
Plated is an excellent option for those who are looking to expand their palate. Their menu is consistently updated and all the items they introduce are unique and delicious.

​One down side that has been reported by those using the service is that cooking the meals require more cooking tools and dishes than most other services equaling more dishes to do in the end. They also are on the high end in the price spectrum compared to many meal prep delivery services.

These two vices however, at least in my opinion, are more than counterbalanced by the quality of the meals along with their excellent customer service. If you are looking to expand your pallet with some amazing dishes and want to remain gluten-free, Plated is definitely a viable option for you.

Bistro MD:

​Bistro MD was founded in 2016 by Caroline J. Cederquest, M.D. who is a board-certified bariatric physician. All meal plans provided by Bistro MD are based on your personal goals as well as the measurements you provide them. Bistro MD stands out among its competition mainly because of the community it has developed. Bistro MD doesn't just encourage healthier eating habits, but helps people completely revolutionize their eating habits through a virtual community that includes professionals who are there to give you advise when needed. 

Bistro MD is another company that offers frozen heat and eat meals that require 0% cooking. Their meals cover breakfast, lunch and dinner and they have a consistently rotating menu to ensure the options they provide do not grow tiresome. 

Although they do not offer options for diets such as Paleo or Keto you do have the option of customizing your meals based on your taste preference. They also provide Vegetarian and Gluten-free options. 
Bistro MD Prices:
Bistro MD prices are easy to remember as there are only two choices and shipping and handling is $25 dollars flat. You have the option of choosing seven days of breakfast and lunch meals for the cost of $134.96 a week or $112.46 for seven days of lunch and dinners.
Bistro MD Benefits:
  • Meals are all frozen and are typically  prepared in less 5 minutes
  • Great support system with constant access to registered dietitians and fitness coaches
  • Price has recently gone down from what has recently been reported
  • Teaches you how to live a healthier lifestyle through webinars and newsletters
Bottom Line:
Bistro MD is one of the top meal prep service companies that takes the health of its customers extremely seriously. Although they do not have options for those following diets such as Paleo and Keto, they do offer Diabetic and Heart Healthy Program for both men and women which is excellent.  There have been mixed views about the taste of the meals but the main gripe appears to be from those who do not like the taste from the microwave, an easy solution to this could be to cook the meal in the oven. For those of you who are looking to shed some serious weight and want to be  apart of a community of individuals with the same goals serving as a support system than Bistro MD has got what you need. 

Sun Basket: ​See Description Above


Veestro: See Description Above


Eatology: See Description Above


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Bodybuilding

Those who are interested in building muscle through the art of bodybuilding are also typically focused on counting macros. This is a classic and time tested way to maintain the amount of nutrients that your body needs in order to effectuate the change that you desire. While you can technically follow this diet using any of the meal prep companies above that provide you with the nutrient information, some companies have designed their meals so that matching your macros is easier. 

Mealpro

Meal Pro was founded in 2016 by Andy Sartori in his endeavor to help those with a busy schedule have a way to eat healthy efficiently.  They have options for lunch and dinner, while a lot of reviews are saying they offer breakfast as well we recently checked their site and it appears they no longer provide this option.
Mealpro Prices:
​When it comes to meal plans, Mealpro keeps it simple; you have the option of choosing between 14 and 16 meals per box per week and shipping is free with the latter option. ​ Prices for individual dishes range from $5.99-$9.99 and Mealpro gives you the option of customizing dishes by adding protein or doubling up on the veggies. 
​Mealpro Benefits:
  • ​Meals are small batched cooked and sourced shortly after your order, to ensure freshness
  • All ingredients have no additives or artificial flavors
  • No need to cook so no dishes except for the plate (if you use one!)
  • A rewards program where points can be earned and redeemed for prizes such as even tickets, protein powder and other cool items
  • High marks for flavor from those who have tried meal pro
  • Website throws in a cacluator that can help calculate how much protein you should be consuming
​Bottom Line:
Mealpro is a great option for the bodybuilder on the go. They offer delicious meals that are easily prepared and the ability to manipulate your meals makes meeting your macro goals a cinch. Mealpro is one of the few meal prep delivery companies that delivers to both Canada and the United States. The only potential downside we found is the lack of variety compared to some of the other services, however the meals do rotate and Mealpro is so confident in their product that they offer a money back guarantee. If you are looking to build muscle or lose weight and are using the macro counting method to do so, Mealpro has definitely got some options that are worth checking out. 

Power Plate

Power plate meals began in 2016 and is the creation of two professional bodybuilders by the name of Seth and Haylee Houkom. They are based in in West Fargo, North Dakota and have multiple locations that are also restaurants!  

For those of you who are environmentally conscious you will be happy to know that the containers that Power Plate Meals utilizes for their dishes are 100% recyclable and they encourage you do so on their website.  

Power plate meals can be heated up and eaten right away, there is no need to dirty a dish if you don't want to (with the exception of the utensils of course). They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner and you have control over how many meals you order with the minimum being 8 meals if your are ordering for online delivery.
Power Plate Prices:
Power Plate Meals are individually priced, the price range on average per meal is between $7.49-$8.99. If you happen to live in North Dakota you may have the option of picking up your meals at one of their locations rather than having to pay the delivery fee. If you happen to live in one of the other states that they deliver to, as long as you order 15 meals or more your shipping is free. 
​Power Plate Benefits:
  •  If in the area (ND / MN) can visit one of their restaurant locations
  • Menu changes every 14 days to ensure you never get tired of the menu
  • Power plate breakfast dishes are unique and delicious 
  • Free shipping if ordering 15 meals or more​
  • Macros are clearly listed making keeping track SUPER easy
  • Offers snack and breakfast options as well
​Bottom Line:
Power Plate Meals is one of the newest competitors in the meal prep delivery industry and they appear to be working on expanding their influence. Those who have tried their meals rave about the taste and are especially impressed with their unique selection of breakfast menu items.  If you are a macro counter looking to lose weight or gain muscle (or both) than Power Plate meals may have the answer to what you are looking for. 

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    Isiah Manzo

    A legal consultant and natural health advocate who loves to lift weights, eat good food and be among like minded individuals. 

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