Evaluating Purple Carrot's Appeal
Purple Carrot, a meal delivery service specializing in 100% vegan recipes, has become a leader in the plant-based market since its start in 2014. It provides meal kits for cooking at home, and prepared, ready-to-heat meals, suitable for different dietary needs and cooking skills. The brand focuses on creative, flavorful, and whole-foods-based meals, not heavily processed plant-based meat substitutes. Factors such as fresh ingredients, creative recipes, and convenience contribute to its reputation.
Quality of Ingredients and Recipes
Many reviewers like Purple Carrot for its high-quality, fresh ingredients, which come in well-packaged, insulated boxes. Although not all produce is organic, due to sourcing issues, most packaged items like tofu and vegan cheeses are. The recipes are often seen as a key strength, introducing new ingredients and inspiring creativity, with dishes such as Taiwanese Tofu Lettuce Cups and Red Lentil Soup with Parsnip Ribbons. However, some less experienced cooks have said that the recipe cards sometimes lack clear instructions for basic preparation, which may extend cook times.
Convenience and Meal Options
Purple Carrot offers different plans:
- Meal Kits: Choose 2 or 4 servings with 2–4 dinners per week.
- Prepared Meals: Single-serving, ready-to-heat meals.
- Add-ons: A "Plantry" section offers extras such as snacks, breakfasts, and pantry staples.
This lets users build a weekly menu that fits their lifestyle. The ability to skip weeks or pause subscriptions is another convenience customers appreciate. While the ready-to-eat meals are quick, some reviewers find they lack the flavor of the meal kits.
The Cost Factor
Purple Carrot is generally seen as more expensive for a meal kit service, though prices vary. Prices per serving for meal kits can range from $11 to $13.25, with prepared meals costing about $13 per serving. The cost may be a barrier for those on a budget, but for those who eat out often, it could save money. The price reflects the convenience of not having to plan, shop, or measure ingredients. Free shipping is often offered on orders over $100, though smaller orders have a fee.
Purple Carrot vs. Other Meal Kit Services
| Feature | Purple Carrot | Green Chef | Hungryroot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diet Focus | Exclusively 100% plant-based/vegan. | Offers plant-based options, but not exclusively vegan. | Wide range of diets, including vegan, keto, and pescatarian. |
| Meal Kits & Prepared Meals | Offers both meal kits and single-serve prepared meals. | Focuses primarily on meal kits. | Offers both meal kits (based on grocery items) and prepared foods. |
| Ingredient Sourcing | Prioritizes organic non-produce items, but produce is not always organic. | Certified organic ingredients for all meal plans. | Heavy use of pre-packaged, pre-processed items for convenience. |
| Menu Variety | Rotating weekly menu with a variety of global cuisines. | Diverse menu across different diet plans, but plant-based options are fewer. | Huge grocery selection for highly customizable meals. |
| Price | Generally higher price point per serving. | Can be more expensive than Purple Carrot for plant-based options. | Varies greatly based on a points system, making cost estimation less straightforward. |
Is Purple Carrot Right for You?
Purple Carrot is a good choice for dedicated vegans or those who want to try a plant-based diet without meal planning and grocery shopping. It provides a fresh, tasty, and educational cooking experience with a high degree of convenience. However, its cost and potential for recipes that are simple or under-seasoned may not appeal to everyone. The packaging waste is another drawback common to many meal kit services. The preference for culinary exploration versus simple convenience, and the budget, will determine if Purple Carrot is a good brand for you.
- Flavorful Recipes: The meals are creative and flavorful, using unique spices and ingredients.
- High-Quality Ingredients: Reviewers report consistently fresh, well-packaged, and high-quality ingredients.
- Convenience for Vegans: It eliminates the guesswork for those on a plant-based diet.
- Flexible Options: The service offers meal kits and ready-to-eat prepared meals to fit different lifestyles.
- Subscription Flexibility: It is easy to skip weeks or cancel a subscription without penalty.
- Sustainable Practices: The company uses recyclable packaging and biodegradable ice packs.
The Final Verdict
For those fully committed to a plant-based diet, Purple Carrot is one of the best meal kit services available. Its focus on flavorful, creative, and healthy vegan meals sets it apart from competitors that offer limited plant-based options. The service is helpful for those who want to learn how to cook vegan food, though the price may require a trade-off. The inclusion of ready-to-heat meals and pantry items enhances its appeal as a convenient solution for plant-based living. The quality and innovation of the recipes, plus the brand's customer service, solidify its position as a good brand in the meal delivery space. For further insights, explore in-depth reviews from publications like CNET, which offer experiences from different perspectives.
