AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Meal kit services: Sunbasket vs. Blue Apron

Quick Verdict

Sunbasket is better for those prioritizing organic ingredients and specific dietary requirements, while Blue Apron is a more affordable option for those seeking variety and customization with fewer dietary restrictions.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeSunbasketBlue Apron
NameSunbasketBlue Apron
Meal OptionsMeal kits and prepared meals with a weekly rotating menu featuring globally-inspired cuisines.Around 20 meal kits each week, 30 prepared meals, 10-15 add-ons (sides, proteins, breakfasts, desserts), rotating weekly. Mix of comfort food and healthy recipes, including steak and seafood. Recipes from various cuisines. Gourmet market for cooking supplies.
Dietary NeedsGluten-Free, Paleo, Carb-Conscious, Mediterranean, Pescatarian, Vegetarian, Keto-Friendly, and Diabetes-Friendly.Signature for 2 Vegetarian Plan. Wellness Badges for 600 Calories or Less, Vegetarian, Pescatarian, Carb-Conscious. Not ideal for strict diets or severe food allergies.
Ingredient Quality and SourcingHigh-quality, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients, with approximately 99% of their produce being organic. Seafood is wild-caught or sustainably raised and recommended by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch program, and their meats are antibiotic- and hormone-free.High-quality ingredients, 80% sourced directly from food producers/farms. Sustainable farms and fisheries across the US. Hormone-free and antibiotic-free meats. Sustainable seafood.
Packaging SustainabilityMostly recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging.Goal: 100% recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging by end of 2025. Aim: 75% post-consumer recycled content in meal kit boxes by end of 2025. 85% recyclable as of 2021. Drain-safe gel packs.
Recipe Clarity and Ease of PreparationStraightforward and easy to make, with many meals ready in 30 minutes or less.Easy-to-follow recipe cards with clear instructions and pictures. Supplemental video tutorials. Most meals are easy to prepare.
Taste and Flavor ProfilesSome reviewers found the taste to be mediocre.Known for flavor. Sophisticated recipes at a budget-friendly price. Often include an extra layer of flavor.
Portion SizesPortion sizes may be small for some individuals.Generally adequate, some consider them generous, others find no leftovers.
Delivery Reliability and FlexibilityDelivers to most of the United States, excluding AK, HI, MT, ND, and parts of New Mexico.Delivers anywhere in the contiguous United States. Skip deliveries at no charge. Automatic weekly enrollment. Some issues with missing ingredients reported.
Customer Service ResponsivenessCustomer service generally receives positive marks.Helpful and effective customer care. Some negative reviews mention difficulty with missing items or late shipments. Prompt refunds for missing ingredients.
Customization OptionsCustomization options for weekly menus, protein swaps, and portion sizes.Swap proteins/sides on certain recipes. Mix and match meal types. Select meat preferences or indicate meats to avoid.
Price$9.99 to $25.99 per serving + shipping$7.99 to $12.49 per serving + $10.99 shipping
Vegan OptionsLimitedNot available

Overall Comparison

Sunbasket: $9.99 to $25.99 per serving; Blue Apron: $7.99 to $12.49 per serving

Pros and Cons

Sunbasket

Pros:
  • Diverse selection of meal options, including meal kits and prepared meals
  • Caters to various dietary needs (Gluten-Free, Paleo, Keto, Vegetarian, etc.)
  • High-quality, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients
  • Mostly recyclable, reusable, or compostable packaging
  • Straightforward and easy-to-follow recipes
  • Reliable and flexible delivery service
  • Offers convenient meal options that save time on meal planning and preparation
  • Easy to navigate website and app
  • Customizable weekly menus
Cons:
  • Vegan options are limited
  • Some reviewers found the taste to be mediocre
  • Portion sizes may be small for some individuals
  • Pricier than some competitors
  • Recipe booklets less user-friendly than larger recipe cards (according to some reviewers)
  • Does not deliver to AK, HI, MT, ND, and parts of New Mexico

Blue Apron

Pros:
  • Good variety of meal options
  • High-quality ingredients
  • Sustainable sourcing practices
  • Clear and easy-to-follow recipes
  • Delicious and restaurant-quality taste
  • Helpful customer service
  • Convenient meal planning and grocery shopping
  • Customization options available
  • Environmentally friendly packaging efforts
Cons:
  • Limited options for specific dietary needs
  • Potential issues with missing ingredients or late shipments
  • Some negative customer service experiences
  • Not suitable for severe food allergies
  • Automatically enrolls customers in a weekly delivery plan

User Experiences and Feedback