Prepackaged food diets have been around for over 20 years. With the fast-paced lifestyle many Americans live, these prepackaged foods offer simplified meal planning and quick preparation. New and established companies in the industry offer prepackaged meals for dieters who want to lose weight without counting calories or cooking meals. Most companies that offer prepackaged diet food have updated their food to include healthier options. Most prepackaged meals are kept frozen, ready to reheat in your microwave or oven.
History
Prepackaged food diets became part of the weight loss industry in the 1990s. Most companies supplying prepackaged foods for weight loss had delivery centers where members met weekly to pick up meals. Customer support was limited to in-person or telephone contact. As the Internet became more accessible for members, companies added online community support, food and calorie trackers and expert support from personal trainers and certified dietitians. According to a February 2009 market research report on the diet food delivery industry, diet delivery companies provide prepackaged food to millions of people throughout the United States.
Types
The prepackaged food industry continues to grow, with over 25 companies offering diet food. Delivery plans include Jenny Craig, Nutrisystem, Biggest Loser Meal Plan, Freshology and eDiets. Most plans offer tools to members that help with weight loss and portion control. Others strive to provide healthy meals made with fresh ingredients to their customers. Even individuals who do not participate in a delivery system have access to prepackaged diet foods, such as Lean Pockets, Lean Cuisine and Marie Calendar meals, sold at grocery stores.
Benefits
Prepackaged food diets help dieters learn portion control and may lead to weight loss when combined with exercise and other low-calorie foods. Prepackaged foods make planning your meals simple; meals are prepared in the time it takes to heat your meal. Most companies provide the option of choosing meals from a variety of foods, allowing members to select foods that fit their preferences or dietary needs. Several diet food delivery plans provide options for individuals, dieters, families and members who have health concerns such as diabetes.
Price Ranges
Although purchasing meals with a delivery program can cost more than picking up a few frozen meals from the grocery store, diet food delivery companies provide weight loss tools, more food options for members and snacks or desserts. A monthly subscription for a diet food delivery program ranges from around $10 to $40 per day based on your level of service and meal plan. Some companies have members purchase additional servings of fresh produce and dairy products, which increases the amount you spend on meals each week. Grocery store meals cost around $2.50 to $4 a meal, which does not include snacks or dessert. Coupons may be available for grocery store meals, while some companies offer promotions or discounts for ordering online or purchasing meals for the whole month. For instance, Nutrisystem offers free shipping and a 10 percent discount to members involved in the automatic delivery program.
Considerations
If you purchase prepackaged food with the intention of losing weight, look for options that provide lean protein, whole grains and a variety of vegetables. Many prepackaged meals are loaded with sodium, which may cause water retention and increased blood volume that leads to health risks, according to the MayoClinic.com. Opt for meals with a low sodium content to help keep your sodium at a healthy level. Look for food delivery plans that offer the convenience of customizable meals and snacks, which limits the chance you'll receive foods you do not like.
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