Sunbasket, a prominent player in the meal kit delivery sector, has been scrutinized for its pricing and offerings. In March 2026, CNET editors conducted a thorough review to determine whether the cost of Sunbasket’s meal kits is justified by their quality and health benefits. The results highlight both the strengths and weaknesses of this service, particularly for those seeking nutritious and convenient meal options.
Understanding Sunbasket’s Offerings
Sunbasket markets itself as a provider of health-focused meal kits featuring clean ingredients and USDA-certified organic produce. The service caters to a wide range of dietary preferences, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo. This adaptability has made it a go-to choice for consumers aiming to maintain healthier eating habits. In addition to meal kits, Sunbasket has expanded its offerings over the past decade to include individual grocery items, such as fresh meat, seafood, and snacks, which can be added to weekly orders.
The pricing for Sunbasket’s meal kits starts at approximately $11 per serving, with a shipping fee of $11 per box. This positions Sunbasket at the higher end of the meal kit market, with competitors like Home Chef and Blue Apron offering more affordable alternatives. Given this pricing structure, the central question remains: Are these meal kits worth the investment?
Evaluating the Meal Kit Experience
To answer this, the CNET team, including wellness editor Anna Gragert, tested a week’s worth of Sunbasket meals. The process begins by selecting dietary preferences and the number of meals desired each week, which can range from three to five. Sunbasket ships to nearly every U.S. ZIP code, excluding a few states.
Gragert, a long-time vegetarian, expressed satisfaction with the quality of ingredients and the nutritional value of the meals. Sunbasket claims at least 98% of its produce is USDA-certified organic, and this commitment seems evident in the freshness of the ingredients upon arrival. The meals offer a variety of healthy options, with around 14 to 18 recipes available each week, although the selection for vegetarian and vegan diets may be limited.
The meals themselves are designed to be easy to prepare, with options that can take as little as 20 minutes. According to Gragert, the recipes were straightforward, making it accessible even for those with minimal cooking experience. Notably, one standout dish was the Balinese chicken with cucumber-cabbage salad, which she described as flavorful and satisfying.
Sunbasket also offers a line of fully prepared meals under the “Fresh & Ready” category. These meals, such as chicken tikka masala and quinoa bowls, require no preparation and can be heated quickly. This feature appeals to consumers looking for convenience during busy weeknights.
While the meals were generally well-received, Gragert noted that the limited variety of vegetarian options could be a drawback for those preferring a wider selection. Services like Purple Carrot or EveryPlate may cater better to strictly plant-based diets.
The packaging used by Sunbasket is comparable to other meal kit services, utilizing paper bags instead of plastic for ingredient storage. This eco-friendly approach, while appreciated, still leaves room for improvement in reducing overall plastic waste.
In terms of customer service, Sunbasket provides a user-friendly app for managing orders and accessing recipes. Customers can easily modify or skip deliveries, ensuring flexibility in their meal planning.
The final thoughts on Sunbasket suggest that while it is not the most budget-friendly option, it delivers quality, healthy meals that can satisfy health-conscious consumers. For those who prioritize organic ingredients and diverse flavors, Sunbasket may be worth the investment, particularly in the context of 2026’s growing emphasis on health and wellness.
In conclusion, Sunbasket presents a strong option for individuals seeking to eat healthier, though it may not be the ideal choice for those with specific dietary restrictions or for families seeking comfort food staples.
