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Food delivery systems come in one of two ways. The first way is with a meal-plan system that sends prepared, possibly frozen, meals to a home every week. The second kind of food delivery service is more ingredient oriented. Individuals can order select ingredients just like they would at the grocery store. The items are then sent to the house. There are distinct advantages and disadvantages to food delivery systems.

Price

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One of the largest disadvantages to food delivery systems is the price. When the food is ordered for more than one person, the expense is typically equal to eating out at a nice restaurant every night. Many food delivery systems cost upwards of $20 per day per person. Some systems cost even more. For individuals who have a limited food budget, food delivery systems are often too expensive to make their benefits worth the cost.

Limited Menu

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Another disadvantage to food delivery systems is the menu choices. Most food delivery services have a limited number of meals that they offer for consumption. Every few weeks or months the menu will change, but if you stick to the system for more than a few months the menu items will become repetitive. You also must eat the meals delivered for that week. If you do not feel like eating that particular meal, then you will either have to order a different meal from somewhere else or go ahead and eat the meal that you dislike.

Preparation

White Plastic Spork and T.V. Dinner with Salisbury Steak
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The preparation factor can also be a disadvantage to food delivery systems. Most food delivery systems deliver frozen meals. The food still has to be prepared before it can be consumed. Preparation is usually simple, but since the meals are frozen they usually have to cook for over an hour. To avoid the long cook times, it is possible to remove the food from the freezer the day before. However, you have to remember to remove the food to cut down on cook time.

Health Benefits

One of the biggest advantages of food delivery systems is their health benefits. Since the meals are preplanned, it is easy to determine the exact number of calories consumed at each meal. Many food delivery systems tailor their menus for health benefits and weight loss, which can be extremely helpful for individuals trying to lose weight and start a healthy diet.

Simplicity

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Food delivery systems are very convenient. The food is ordered, delivered and consumed. There is no struggling to remember ingredients in the house or trying to pore over recipes and make grocery lists. Food delivery systems are perfect for busy individuals who do not have time to shop every week. Food delivery systems are also beneficial to those who cannot get out of the house to shop, such as the disabled or elderly.