Have you ever aimlessly wandered around a supermarket, only to be tempted by countless treats and unhealthy processed foods? When you’re on a strict paleo diet, then grocery shopping can become even more problematic.
Despite being a certified personal trainer, before using meal delivery services, I struggled to get all the right ingredients and produce for friendly meals specifically for a paleo diet.
So, I conducted over 50 hours of research and tested, together with my team, more than 30 paleo meal delivery services to find the best one.
You can find the results of our testing below.
The Best Paleo Meal Delivery Services
- Best Overall Paleo Meal Delivery Service: Trifecta
- Cheapest Paleo Meal Delivery Service: Sun Basket
- Best Prepared Paleo Meal Delivery: Trifecta
- Most Diverse Paleo Meal Provision: Sun Basket
- Best Organic Paleo Meal Home Delivery: Trifecta
- Best Paleo Meal Delivery for Whole Family: Sun Basket
- Best Tasting Paleo Meal Provision: Trifecta
- Best Partially-Prepared Paleo Meal Delivery Service: Green Chef
- Best Paleo Meal Provision Service for Fitness: Sun Basket
Our Top Paleo Meal Delivery Services (October 2024)
1 - Trifecta (Best Overall & Best Tasting)
- Cost : Plans starting at $110.99 per week
- Plan : Customizable meals, weekly delivery
- Packaging : 100% recyclable, aiming for 100% biodegradability within 24 months
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ready to eat meals
- Wide range of delightful meal plans to choose from
- Weekly delivery that’s customizable based on your needs
- The entire menu is gluten-free and 100% organic
Cons
- You can’t select specific meals
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Busy individuals
- Health-conscious people
Who is it not for?
- Those who prefer to select specific meals
Final Verdict
Trifecta offers convenient, fully-prepared meals perfect for a paleo diet. The focus on organic, high-quality ingredients ensures nutritious and tasty options.
There are a lot of great options when it comes to paleo meal delivery, but Trifecta comes on top because of two things -- it needs no preparation and it’s delicious.
Based on our tests, you’re free to order a la carte or if you’re following a particular diet plan, you can choose from paleo, keto, vegan, vegetarian, or clean meal plans.
The only downside I think most people would find inconvenient is that while you can choose a specific meal plan, there’s no option to select specific meals to go with your plan as the meals are pre-prepared.
2 - Sun Basket (Cheapest & Best for Fitness)
- Cost : Plans range from $10.99 to $12.99 per serving, plus a $9.99 shipping fee
- Plan : Two or four servings per meal, two to five meals per week
- Packaging : Approximately 85% recyclable by weight
Pros and Cons
Pros
- A broad selection of other diet options for the health conscious
- Pre-packaged meal plans to make ordering easier
- Meals are mainly prepared using organic produce
- Reasonably priced options for families
Cons
- reparation and cooking required
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Home cooks
- Families seeking variety
Who is it not for?
- People wanting ready-to-eat meals
Final Verdict
Sun Basket provides diverse meal options with fresh ingredients, ideal for those who enjoy cooking. It’s a flexible plan but requires preparation time.
The reason I have picked this for the top of the list is mainly down to the very large selection per meal, which means I get to have a new dish to try per week.
Our tests indicate that there is a lot of emphasis on fresh, local, and whole foods organic ingredients, which is one of the features that makes this company stand out from the rest.
Now, I have to say that this is an option for people who don’t mind preparing the food, as it isn’t a simple reheat service.
You receive a paleo meal delivery package with fresh ingredients and produce with the instructions on how to prepare them. It’s still a great idea and ideal for people who struggle with grocery shopping rather than dish preparation.
Get Up To $70 Off Your First 3 Orders until the end of October
3 - Green Chef (Best Partially-Prepared)
- Cost : $12.99 per serving
- Plan : Four meals for two people per week
- Packaging : Environmentally friendly, sustainable packaging
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Certified organic company
- Simple to follow instructions help you learn new ways to cook
- Everything including herbs and spices included
- Good selection of many different styles of food
Cons
- Cooking is still required
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Organic food enthusiasts
- People who enjoy cooking
Who is it not for?
- Individuals wanting ready-made meals
Final Verdict
Green Chef offers organic ingredients with easy-to-follow recipes, great for learning new cooking techniques. The meals require some preparation, making it less ideal for those seeking quick meals.
This is a favorite with people who really want to ensure that everything they're eating is organic. But what I like about the Green Chef meal delivery plan is that everything to make the meal is included, and you learn a lot about cooking from the instructions.
Based on my experience, I don’t think they have the largest selection of paleo meals on this list, but I’ve never failed to find something that I really liked the sound and sight of.
If you try this paleo service, then I recommend eating the coconut crusted chicken with a side of sweet potato.
While Green Chef delivers all the ingredients pre-measured, you’ll still need to do a bit of cooking. But I have found that it rarely takes more than 20 to 30 minutes.
Get $40 Off Your First Order until the end of October
4 - Clean Eats Meal Prep
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Good paleo selection of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks
- Child-friendly menu and portions available
- Large meals selection to cover food intolerances
- Bulk orders available to reduce costs
Cons
- Meals don’t arrive frozen
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Families
- Bulk buyers
Who is it not for?
- People needing frozen meals
Final Verdict
Clean Eats offers a variety of meals, including kid-friendly options, delivered fresh. Bulk ordering can be cost-effective, but meals are not frozen, requiring prompt refrigeration.
As many reviewers online have commented, you will struggle to run out of new things to try out.
I tend to order my meals in bulk at least 3 weeks in advance, as it just makes it easier for me to plan, and of course, there are good discounts.
What a lot of people also love about the Clean Eats meal delivery service is that you can buy from a kids menu with smaller portions, which is great to help families.
Our tests indicate that this makes meal prep at home easier while making sure that your family is eating healthy paleo foods with quality ingredients every week.
The only downside for some people is that the meals are delivered in temperature controlled packaging but not frozen. Ideally, if you plan to buy in bulk, you want to be there at the time of delivery to place the order straight in your freezer.
5 - Paleo On The Go
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Meat and fish is sourced from humanely raised farms
- Frequently changing paleo meals, so you don’t get bored
- Delivery within 2 days and overnight shipping available as well
- Good meal bundles and subscriptions available
Cons
- Not entirely reliant on organic sources
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Busy professionals
- Those seeking meal variety
Who is it not for?
- Strictly organic-only consumers
Final Verdict
Paleo On The Go delivers quickly with frequently changing menus, perfect for those who like variety. However, not all ingredients are organic.
This is another great paleo meal delivery service that I like to use when I run out of ready prepared paleo meals. Generally, I receive orders within 2 days, but you can also take advantage of the overnight shipping at an extra cost.
The paleo meals are constantly changing, and I found several comments from people who said that after 3 months of trying it, they hadn’t had the same meal twice.
After personally trying this meal delivery service, I believe it is definitely worth a try, and if you like the meals, then try to upgrade to a subscription plan for added convenience.
6 - Eatology
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Menu changes on a daily basis
- Simple pricing based on meal sizes
- Good discounts on bulk orders
- Family platter options available
Cons
- Online ordering doesn’t include images
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Dieters wanting variety
- People needing bulk orders
Who is it not for?
- Visual shoppers needing images
Final Verdict
Eatology offers a changing menu with simple pricing, ideal for those wanting new meals frequently. The lack of online images may be a drawback for some.
This company claims to have one of the most frequently changing menus, and you can definitely see that every week.
It’s great if you really want to eat something new daily, but what if you really enjoyed an entree and then it’s not on the menu for a while?
Anyway, our tests and previous research indicate that trained chefs prepare all the food from Etology Paleo Zone, and there is quite a large selection of different meals for the day.
But you can save a good bit by choosing a meal delivery subscription or bulk order.
7 - Factor 75
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Meals are prepared and delivered fresh, not frozen
- No cooking needed, simply heat up your delivery
- Constantly rotating recipes give you a pretty good selection
- Bulk plan discounts are very good value
Cons
- Paleo selection could be a bit better
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Weight loss seekers
- Those preferring ready-to-eat meals
Who is it not for?
- Individuals wanting a wide paleo selection
Final Verdict
Factor 75 provides fresh, ready-to-eat meals that rotate weekly, focusing on weight loss. However, the paleo selection is somewhat limited.
Next up is a service I know quite a few people use on a regular basis where the main focus is on entrees and a few desserts you can eat while on a strict paleo diet or are on a weight loss journey.
Our tests indicate that the weekly meals are constantly changing, giving the health conscious good choices. And best of all, they do taste great.
If you’re very strict with your paleo diet, then you might find that the weekly menu options are a bit limited when compared to the other options above.
8 - Kettle Bell Kitchen
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Select a paleo meal plan for your fitness goals
- Strong focus on sports nutrition for a balance of carbs and protein
- Choose from a weekly menu or custom meal plan
- Good price ranges for different meals
Cons
- Some more flexibility within meal plans would be great
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Athletes
- Fitness enthusiasts
Who is it not for?
- Those wanting highly flexible meal plans
Final Verdict
Kettle Bell Kitchen offers nutrition-focused meals tailored for fitness goals, ideal for athletes. While the plans are good, they lack flexibility in meal choices.
This is one of the meal delivery services that's great for athletes of all levels, or for anyone with some very specific health and weight loss goals.
All the meals are prepared by trained chefs, and there are quite a few paleo diet options to choose from.
There is a really good focus on getting the nutritional balance right, and many online reviews, even from performance athletes said they were very happy with the macro balance.
Several users report how the menu has helped with with their weight loss journey.
While it’s great that you can pick your preferred meals for your physical training goals, you don’t have a huge amount of say about what you get delivered. There was one week where two of my deliveries had butternut squash, which for some reason I just don’t like.
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How We Tested For The Best Paleo Meal Delivery Service
As a certified personal trainer, I've had the opportunity to work with clients who have diverse dietary preferences and goals, including those who follow a Paleo diet for its health and fitness benefits.
In evaluating the best Paleo meal delivery services, I applied a comprehensive testing approach that incorporated both my professional insights and industry standards.
Meal Selection
The variety within the meal selection was the first criterion. A robust menu that offers a wide range of choices is essential for dietary adherence and nutritional balance.
I personally sampled meals from multiple services to ensure they provided a diverse array of options that could cater to different tastes and preferences while still adhering to the strict guidelines of the Paleo diet.
Taste
Taste is a subjective but crucial factor. As someone who advocates for sustainable lifestyle changes, I believe that enjoying what you eat is key to maintaining any diet long-term.
I tasted meals from each service, looking for flavors that were both satisfying and in line with what a Paleo diet should represent—natural and unprocessed. I also consulted with clients who had tried these services to gather a wider range of taste evaluations.
Price
Price is always a consideration for my clients, so I compared the cost-effectiveness of each service.
This didn't just mean looking at the price per meal but also considering the value in terms of ingredient quality, portion size, and the flexibility of subscription plans.
It was important to determine whether the service was a financially viable option for those on a Paleo diet.
Ingredient Quality
Beyond the source of the ingredients, I examined the quality and freshness upon delivery. As a trainer, I know that the nutritional content of food can significantly impact one's fitness journey.
I ensured that the meals provided were made with high-quality ingredients that aligned with the Paleo philosophy of eating whole, nutrient-dense foods.
Customer Service and Support
Good customer service is vital, especially when dietary needs are involved. I interacted with each service's customer support to evaluate their responsiveness and helpfulness.
I also considered the ease of managing subscriptions, customizing orders, and the service's ability to handle feedback or issues.
Packaging and Sustainability
Finally, I assessed the packaging for sustainability—a factor that resonates with the Paleo community's preference for natural and environmentally friendly practices.
I evaluated the materials used for packaging and the ease of recycling or composting them. Additionally, I looked at the insulation and cooling materials to ensure that they kept the meals fresh while being eco-conscious.
Buyer's Guide
As a personal trainer, I would focus on the following four factors based on my experience and what I've learned from clients' preferences and needs.
Quality of Ingredients
When selecting a Paleo meal delivery service, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. The ideal service should prioritize organic and grass-fed produce, ensuring that the vegetables, fruits, and meats are not only environmentally friendly but also rich in nutrients.
Additionally, the Paleo diet is centered around whole, unprocessed foods, so the meal service should guarantee that its offerings are free from preservatives and artificial additives.
Variety and Meal Options
A diverse menu is crucial to maintaining interest and nutritional balance in a Paleo diet. The service should offer a wide range of meal options and regularly update its menu to keep things fresh and exciting.
For those with additional dietary restrictions beyond the standard Paleo eliminations, the ability to customize meals to accommodate allergies or sensitivities is also a significant consideration.
Cost and Subscription Flexibility
Cost is a major factor in choosing a meal delivery service. The pricing should be straightforward, with no hidden charges, and the service should provide a breakdown of the cost per meal. Look for options that offer discounts on bulk purchases or subscriptions.
Equally important is the flexibility of the plan; the service should allow you to easily pause, skip, or cancel your subscription to suit your changing schedule without incurring extra fees.
Delivery and Packaging
The packaging of the meals should reflect a commitment to sustainability, ideally being either recyclable or compostable. This is often important to those following a Paleo lifestyle, who tend to be environmentally conscious.
Moreover, the reliability of the delivery service is a key factor—meals should consistently arrive on time and in good condition. It's beneficial to read through customer reviews to gauge the service's track record for delivery performance.
Ready-Made vs Ready To Cook
What you’ve seen on the above list are two types of meal delivery services.
Firstly, there is a ready-made service where meals arrive at your door, and all you have to do is heat it up.
Within 5 minutes, your food will be ready for eating.
Secondly, there is a ready-to-cook service where you receive all the ingredients pre-measured, including all the herbs, spices, and produce, together with simple instructions.
You still have to do some prep work and cooking, but both delivery services are generally very easy. You can enjoy eating your meals in 20 to 30 minutes tops.
The good news is these ready-to-cook services are pretty flexible and while they are pre-prepared for you, you can still choose from an extensive menu. Check out Sizzlefish subscription choices -- you can choose from their meal plans or build your own wild-caught seafood box as you wish.
There’s obviously a price difference to consider, but which option works best for you will depend on whether you have the time to cook.
Are Paleo Frozen Meals Healthy?
According to one of the studies found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, paleo frozen meals are healthy [1].
However, I generally prefer to stay away from them. The freezing process can break down a lot of the flavors and textures, which ultimately makes for a not-so-nice experience.
However, when you bulk order from these delivery services and then freeze them at home when they arrive, there is the advantage of significant cost savings compared to buying on a per-serving basis.
According to another study found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, you should make sure you weigh it up for what’s more important to you for the best possible results [2].
FAQs
Are Meal Subscription Services Worth It?
Yes, meal subscription services are worth it, especially if your daily life and routine make it difficult to shop for and prepare the raw ingredients. And when it comes to specialty diets like paleo or keto, such services can make life a lot easier.
Are Meal Kits Cheaper Than Buying Groceries?
No, meal kits are not cheaper than buying groceries fresh in the store. When you factor in the labor and delivery costs, there really cannot be room to make such a service cheaper. But, if you value your time and effort, it can work out in your favor.
What Is the Paleo Diet?
The paleo diet, short for the Paleolithic diet, is a dietary plan that mimics the eating habits of prehistoric humans. It emphasizes whole foods like lean meats, fish, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds while avoiding processed foods, grains, legumes, dairy, and added sugars.
According to one of the studies found on the National Center for Biotechnology Information website, the paleo diet caused a decrease in fasting plasma (fP) glucose and fP insulin, making it an ideal choice for people with diabetes [3].
What Is the Environmental Impact of Paleo Meal Delivery Services?
Paleo meal delivery services vary in their environmental impact, with some prioritizing eco-friendly practices such as using recyclable packaging and sourcing from local organic farms to reduce carbon footprint. It's important to choose services that commit to sustainability if this is a concern for you.
Do Paleo Meal Delivery Services Use Locally Sourced Ingredients?
Some Paleo meal delivery services emphasize the use of locally sourced ingredients to support community agriculture and provide fresher, more nutrient-dense meals. This practice also often results in a lower environmental impact due to reduced transportation distances.
How are Paleo meal delivery services customized for athletes?
Paleo meal delivery services for athletes typically offer meals with higher protein content and calorie counts to meet their increased nutritional needs. Many work with sports nutritionists to create meal plans that support athletic performance and recovery.
Can Paleo Meal Delivery Services Provide Cultural Variety in Their Menus?
Yes, many Paleo meal delivery services offer a variety of international cuisines adapted to fit Paleo guidelines, providing a diverse menu that helps prevent diet fatigue. These services creatively substitute Paleo-friendly ingredients while maintaining authentic flavors.
Do Paleo Meal Delivery Services Offer Resources for Meal Preparation Education?
Certain Paleo meal delivery services offer educational resources such as cooking tips, recipes, and transition plans for customers interested in learning to prepare their own Paleo meals. This can be a valuable tool for those looking to cook at home while maintaining their dietary preferences eventually.
Our Verdict on Best Paleo Meal Delivery Services
I always recommend Trifecta to my family, friends, and clients. It’s also one of the paleo meal delivery services I use the most because it’s so easy and convenient.
While I can’t select particular foods to add to my plan, I’ve never been disappointed because every single meal I’ve tried is healthy and tasty.
OUR #1 BEST PALEO MEAL DELIVERY
Trifecta (Best Overall & Best Tasting)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Ready to eat meals
- Wide range of delightful meal plans to choose from
- Weekly delivery that’s customizable based on your needs
- The entire menu is gluten-free and 100% organic
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of October
- You can’t select specific meals
Diabetic? You can also check out our article on best meal delivery service for diabetics.
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