Nutrisystem, Inc., is a publicly traded company that sells prepackaged food to consumers eager to lose excess weight. The food arrives in a large package designed to last for 28 days. The entrees, snacks and desserts are packaged for the pantry shelf or freezer. Several programs are available, including ones tailored to the needs of men, women, senior citizens, vegetarians and diabetics.
Lack of Variety
While Nutrisystem claims to offer around 150 different foods on its programs, many Americans will like only a few dozen of the choices. Eating these foods for every meal and snack for months can become mundane for a person accustomed to a wider palate. Two options are available, one in which predetermined foods are automatically sent and an option that allows the consumer to choose which food items are shipped. Ordering the variety pack can lead to receiving foods the consumer doesn't care for, while ordering only his favorites can leave him craving variety after a while. Lack of variety can also lead to a nutritional deficiency, as a well-balanced diet incorporates all the food groups, including fruits, vegetables, healthy oils, grains, dairy products and proteins such as fish, chicken, eggs and beans.
Need to Supplement With Fresh Foods
Some consumers purchase a Nutrisystem program thinking they will no longer have to shop for foods at the grocery store. Fresh fruits, salad items, vegetables and dairy products such as skim milk must be purchased to complement the frozen and packaged meals, however, making this program less convenient than some people expect.
Cost
Costs for Nutrisystem programs ranged from $299 to $393 per 28 days in January 2011, according to the company website. The cost of the required fresh foods must be added to this. Many Americans can eat more cheaply by preparing meals at home, utilizing whole grains, beans, fresh produce, low-fat dairy and low-cost protein sources. Paying for four weeks worth of food at a time is impossible or difficult for many Americans as well.
Lack of Transition
Diet programs such as Nutrisystem often fail to educate consumers on ways to maintain a healthy eating regimen post-diet. HelpGuide.org, a non-profit informational resources explains that nutritious eating involves choosing a variety of healthy foods and preparing them without added sugars, excess sodium and unhealthy fats. Many consumers may develop a fast-food mentality from eating Nutrisystem meals, rather than learning to prepare meals from scratch at home.
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