Online Grocery Options
Today, essentially everything can be purchased online. The variety offered and convenience of online shopping is unmatched. Over the last two years the online shopping world as only grown. If you wanted, you could buy ALL the ingredients you needed to make balanced, healthy and delicious meals at home online. You would never need to step foot in a grocery again, if you didn’t want to.
Online grocery shopping are a great options for those to like to avoid frequent trips to the store, or who are looking for something specific or a great variety of speciality items. I have also found that in some cases it is a more affordable option for better quality ingredients. Below I have laid out few options, and some that I have personally used.
Produce:
Farm Fresh to You- Family owned and operated with deep roots in farming, agriculture and their community. What once started as a CSA ( Community Supported Agriculture) has evolved into operation reaching communities far beyond their county lines while still sourcing local, seasonal and sustainable produce. How it works: They have 6 boxes to choose from in varying sizes with the option to add other farm products (eggs, honey, local dairy, etc) and the convenience and flexibility to chose the delivery frequency. I have personally used Farm Fresh to You and loved it. It was great outlet for quality produce during the pandemic when my local markets were not available.
Imperfect Foods- This company does not judge a book by its cover. It has an amazing concept with the noble mission of reducing food waste. What started as Imperfect Produce selling misshapen and odd looking vegetables has shifted to Imperfect foods as they have expanded their offerings. They now carry a full line up of grocery store items. They may not always be the prettiest in the bunch but quality and taste is never sacrificed.
Misfits Market- Another amazing concept that trying to fix food system by sourcing mostly organic produce from farmers across America. They take out the middle man by offering their customers great deals on fresh, seasonal organic produce that would otherwise be wasted. Their goal of working directly with farmers and suppliers to limit mark-ups and resources used before the groceries get to you.
Meat:
Butcher Box- In terms of convenience, affordability, quality, sourcing, and variety I could not love the Butcher Box subscription more. Meat/ poultry/seafood was the biggest chunk of my grocery bill. Being a chef and Nutritional Therapy Practitioner I understand the importance of eating quality proteins, this was something I would never skimp. Butcher Box has allowed us to eat quality meat that is grass fed and finished (this is key!), poultry that is pasture raised and seafood that is wild caught without breaking the bank. They also have an amazingly helpful customer service line, I really appreciate this aspect of foley online businesses.
Moink- One of the coolest things about Moink is that is owned and operated by farmers. They understand the importance of sustainably and ethically raising animals and the difference it makes on your plate. I really appreciate the clarity of their sourcing. The provide a good amount information and transparency on their website about the farmers that raise the meat they sell. They are also at a great price point, the variety here can vary and is slightly less than butcher box. However, this may not be a deal breaker for most. If you have house staples you make monthly this could be a great option.
Rastelli’s- This one is for all the foodies out there. Ray Rastelli Jr got his start at a butcher and with his brother built the brand Rastelli’s with the reputation of high standards and an exceptional meats. One of Rastelli’s values is good partnership, with that in mind they not only seek out great partners but they share that information on their website.They also have a wide variety of products and cuts. Unlike previous options this is not a subscription service. This means everything is sold a la carte, so you can order a much or as little as you like. However, because of this model is can get pricey.
Pantry Staples:
Thrive Market- Committed to providing top quality organic brands at a discount compared to in store retailers. They big selection of pantry staples as well as home products. They care about the environment by offering carbon neutral shipping, sustainable packaging 100% recycled boxes, and 90% of their waste from warehouse is recycled, composted or re used. They do require a monthly membership, but that will likely not a deal breaker as it is only $5 per month.
Good Eggs($$)- One stop shop for all your grocery needs. I would say one of the biggest pros of Good Eggs in the their huge selection. Scrolling through their website feels like walking through the aisle of your local grocery store but from the comfort of your home and without the hassle of navigating the parking lot and long check out lines. They are not least expensive option out there but I highly encourage them for those that wish to avoid the grocery store altogether.
Local store delivery options- If your not interest in a subscription service or exploring a new online platform I highly encourage you look at your local grocery store delivery options. Small and privately owned store may not have this option but many bigger chain grocery store such as Safeways, Raley’s, Sprouts and more offering online ordering with either pick-up or local delivery. This is great who knows the selection of their local store well and are looking for a way to simplify the errand of grocery shopping.
However you choose do it, sourcing quality ingredients that you know you will use is the best way to set yourself up for success in the kitchen. I encourage you find foods you like, dishes you enjoy and recipes you can create to fill your plate and nourish your body.
