Gobble vs Freshly: Find Out Which Service Suits You

    The main difference between Gobble and Freshly is that Gobble focuses on semi-prepared meals that require minimal cooking and can be ready in 15 minutes, while Freshly offers fully-prepared meals that only need to be heated.

    What is Gobble?

    Gobble is a ready-to-eat meal subscription service that aims to simplify home cooking by delivering meal kits with pre-chopped, pre-measured ingredients. Each meal is designed to be cooked in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy individuals and families who want a quick, yet fresh and nutritious dinner. The meals come with easy-to-follow recipes and generally require minimal cooking skills, offering a wide variety of cuisines to choose from.

    What is Freshly?

    Freshly, on the other hand, specializes in fully-prepared meals that are delivered fresh, not frozen. These meals are ready to eat after a few minutes of heating in the microwave or oven. Freshly’s primary selling point is the convenience and time-saving aspect, as there is no cooking involved—perfect for those who need a quick and balanced meal without the hassle of preparation. Freshly offers nutritionally balanced meals, catering to various dietary preferences, including gluten-free and calorie-conscious options.

    Key differences between Gobble and Freshly

    1. Meal Preparation: Gobble requires minimal cooking, taking about 15 minutes to prepare, whereas Freshly meals are fully cooked and only need to be reheated.

    2. Ingredient Freshness: Gobble delivers raw ingredients that are pre-chopped and pre-measured, while Freshly delivers fully cooked meals.

    3. Skill Level: Gobble is ideal for those who want to feel like they are cooking but with ease, whereas Freshly is suited for those who have no time or interest in cooking.

    4. Packaging: Gobble’s kits come with individual ingredient packets, whereas Freshly meals come in microwave-safe containers.

    5. Menu Variety: Gobble offers a wider array of global cuisines, while Freshly focuses more on American-style comfort foods with a healthy twist.

    6. Delivery Frequency: Gobble typically offers weekly subscriptions, whereas Freshly can provide meals up to twice a week depending on your plan.

    7. Dietary Customization: Gobble offers limited customization options compared to Freshly, which provides meals suitable for various dietary needs like paleo, keto, and gluten-free.

    8. Portion Sizes: Gobble generally caters to a meal for two or four people, while Freshly offers individual portion sizes.

    9. Nutritional Information: Freshly provides detailed nutritional information and is often aimed at health-conscious meals, whereas Gobble focuses more on quick, gourmet-style dinners.

    10. Price: Freshly’s fully-prepared meals tend to be slightly more expensive due to the convenience factor, while Gobble’s meal kits might offer a more affordable alternative for semi-prepared meals.

    Key similarities between Gobble and Freshly

    1. Subscription Model: Both Gobble and Freshly offer flexible subscription plans that can be adjusted or canceled at any time.

    2. Home Delivery: Both services deliver meals directly to your doorstep, making meal planning and preparation highly convenient.

    3. Healthy Options: Both companies offer menus that include healthy, balanced meals designed to cater to nutritional needs.

    4. Environmental Considerations: Both Gobble and Freshly use packaging that aims to be eco-friendly and recyclable.

    5. Quality Ingredients: Both services emphasize the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients in their meal options.

    6. Customer Support: Both Gobble and Freshly provide robust customer support to help manage subscriptions and solve any issues that may arise.

    7. Dietary Plans: Each service offers meal options catering to specific dietary restrictions, such as low-carb, high-protein, or plant-based diets.

    Features of Gobble vs Features of Freshly

    1. Meal Preparation:

      • Gobble: Pre-measured, pre-chopped ingredients; 15-minute cooking time.

      • Freshly: Fully-prepared meals requiring only reheating.

    2. Packaging:

      • Gobble: Ingredients packaged separately, promoting freshness and flexibility.

      • Freshly: Meals packaged in individual, microwave-safe containers for convenience.

    3. Menu Variety:

      • Gobble: Offers a diverse range of global cuisines.

      • Freshly: Focuses on American-style comfort food, with healthy versions.

    4. Flexibility and Customization:

      • Gobble: Allows slight modifications to recipes and ingredient use.

      • Freshly: No modifications possible since meals are pre-made.

    5. Delivery Frequency:

      • Gobble: Weekly meal kit deliveries.

      • Freshly: Flexible delivery options, including up to twice a week.

    6. Nutritional Focus:

      • Gobble: Fresh, gourmet-style dinners with less focus on specific diet plans.

      • Freshly: Nutritionally balanced meals catering to various dietary needs.

    7. Portion Sizes:

      • Gobble: Meals usually designed for two or four servings.

      • Freshly: Single-serving meal portions.

    8. Environmental Impact:

      • Gobble: Utilizes eco-friendly, recyclable packaging materials.

      • Freshly: Also emphasizes sustainable packaging but generates more waste due to individual meal containers.

    Pros of Gobble Over Freshly

    1. Cooking Experience: Gobble provides a hands-on cooking experience with pre-measured and pre-chopped ingredients, making it feel like a homemade meal with minimal effort.

    2. Freshness of Ingredients: Since Gobble delivers raw ingredients, the meals often taste fresher compared to reheated prepared meals.

    3. Customization: Users can slightly tweak ingredients and alter recipes according to personal taste, something not possible with Freshly’s pre-made meals.

    4. Variety of Cuisines: Gobble offers a wider array of global cuisines, giving subscribers more variety in their meal options.

    5. Meal Bonding: Gobble’s meal kits can be an engaging activity for couples or families who enjoy spending time cooking together.

    6. Cooking Skills: For those looking to improve their cooking skills, Gobble provides an opportunity to learn while preparing meals.

    7. More Control Over Ingredients: Gobble allows for more control over cooking methods and seasoning adjustments compared to Freshly.

    8. Price Point: Gobble’s meal kits can sometimes be more cost-effective than Freshly’s fully-prepared meals, offering better value for those willing to do some light cooking.

    Cons of Gobble Compared to Freshly

    1. Time to Prepare: Even though Gobble meals are quick, they still require some preparation and cooking time, which Freshly meals do not.

    2. Skill Requirement: Gobble requires basic cooking skills, whereas Freshly requires no culinary expertise.

    3. Clean-Up: Gobble meals involve more clean-up after cooking, including pots, pans, and utensils, which aren’t necessary with Freshly.

    4. Portion Control: Gobble’s meal components may lead to less consistent portion sizes, unlike Freshly’s standardized portions.

    5. Storage Space: Raw ingredients from Gobble may require more refrigerator space compared to the compact packaging of Freshly’s meals.

    6. Customization Limitations: While there is some level of customization, Gobble users cannot entirely avoid certain ingredients if they are included in the meal kit.

    7. Meal Prep Predictability: Freshly offers the predictability of knowing exactly how a meal will turn out every time, whereas Gobble might result in slight variations.

    Pros of Freshly Over Gobble

    1. Time Efficiency: Freshly offers the ultimate convenience with fully-prepared meals that only need to be heated, saving significant prep and cook time.

    2. Consistent Quality: Each Freshly meal is prepared and portioned by professionals, ensuring consistent taste and quality.

    3. Minimal Clean-Up: With Freshly, there’s almost no post-meal clean-up required, as the meals come in microwave-safe containers.

    4. Ease of Use: Freshly is perfect for individuals with no cooking skills or those who simply do not enjoy cooking.

    5. Portion Control: Freshly’s meals come in single-serving portions, helping to manage calorie intake and reduce overeating.

    6. Dietary Options: Freshly offers a wide range of meals catering to dietary restrictions such as gluten-free, keto, and low-calorie options.

    7. Predictability: With Freshly, you know exactly what you’re getting and the meal will taste the same each time, providing reliability and consistency.

    Cons of Freshly Compared to Gobble

    1. Lack of Freshness: Freshly meals, although fresh, may not taste as lively as freshly cooked meals from raw ingredients.

    2. Less Control: There is no flexibility to customize or tweak the meals as everything arrives fully prepared.

    3. Cost: Freshly’s convenience comes at a higher price point compared to the more affordable Gobble meal kits.

    4. Limited Involvement: For those who enjoy the cooking process, Freshly offers no opportunity to engage in meal preparation.

    5. Packaging Waste: Individual meal packaging from Freshly can generate more waste compared to the bulkier but fewer components in Gobble kits.

    6. Menu Variety: While Freshly offers varied menus, the range of cuisines may not be as broad or frequently updated as Gobble’s.

    7. Nutritional Control: With Freshly, you have less control over ingredients and nutritional content compared to customizing and adjusting recipes with Gobble.

    Situations when Gobble is Better than Freshly

    1. Family Meals: Gobble is an excellent choice for families who want to enjoy cooking together and bonding over meal preparation.

    2. Developing Cooking Skills: If you’re interested in improving your culinary skills, Gobble’s semi-prepared kits offer a perfect balance of convenience and cooking education.

    3. Cooking Enjoyment: For those who enjoy the act of cooking but are pressed for time, Gobble provides a satisfying cooking experience with minimal effort.

    4. Fresh Ingredients: When the priority is having meals that taste as fresh as possible, Gobble’s raw ingredient kits often surpass the freshness of pre-cooked meals.

    5. Dietary Control: If you want more control over what goes into your meals, Gobble allows you to add or omit ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

    6. Meal Variety: For subscribers who seek a broad range of global cuisines in their weekly meals, Gobble’s diverse menu can be more appealing.

    7. Engaging Activity: For couples or roommates looking for a fun and engaging activity, Gobble’s meal kits can make dinner preparation an enjoyable part of the evening routine.

    Situations when Freshly is Better than Gobble

    1. Time Constraints: Freshly is ideal for individuals who are extremely busy and need a meal that is ready to eat in a matter of minutes with no preparation required.

    2. No Cooking Skills: If you have limited or no cooking skills, Freshly takes all the guesswork out by providing fully-prepared meals.

    3. Single Servings: For those living alone or wanting perfectly portioned single-serving meals, Freshly’s packaging is more suited to individual needs.

    4. Consistent Quality: When you desire consistent taste and quality every time, Freshly’s professionally prepared meals deliver reliability.

    5. Minimal Clean-Up: Freshly is the better option when you want to avoid the hassle of cleanup, as it requires no additional cooking utensils.

    6. Immediate Hunger: If you need food immediately after a long day and don’t want to wait for anything to cook, Freshly provides a quick and convenient solution.

    7. Specific Diets: Those who follow strict dietary plans such as keto, paleo, or gluten-free might find Freshly’s dedicated meal options more tailored to their needs.

    How to Get the Most Out of Your Meal Subscription Service

    Making the most of a meal subscription service requires understanding your personal needs and preferences. Here’s a closer look at how you can maximize your experience with either Gobble or Freshly.

    Prioritize Your Schedule

    If your schedule is tight and you barely have time to breathe, Freshly might be the better choice for you. Freshly meals are ready to eat after reheating, saving precious minutes. It’s particularly great for people who have no time to cook, maybe due to demanding jobs or busy family lives.

    On the other hand, if you have a bit more flexibility during your day, Gobble could be a delightful choice. Despite requiring a little cooking, Gobble still offers convenience. It strikes a balance between providing a home-cooked feel and saving some preparation time. This can make for a speedy yet satisfying dinner after work or a simple arranged weekend meal.

    Meal Planning for Different Lifestyles

    Understanding your lifestyle can help in choosing between Gobble and Freshly. If you’re someone who enjoys cooking but hates the hassle of preparation, Gobble’s pre-chopped ingredients are perfect. They allow you to engage in the cooking process without the tedious prep work. This is ideal for small get-togethers or family dinners where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

    For individuals who follow strict diets or have specific nutritional goals, Freshly’s clearly labeled, portion-controlled meals offer peace of mind. Knowing exactly what you’re consuming can help you stay on track with your dietary needs. Freshly’s varied dietary options, like gluten-free or high-protein meals, add convenience for health-conscious individuals.

    Budget Considerations

    Budget plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. Gobble’s cost-effective kits can provide meals for multiple servings, often making it a more economical option for households. The satisfaction of cooking, combined with the affordability, can be a significant advantage if you are feeding several people.

    Freshly, while slightly more expensive, offers the time-saving aspect of fully-prepared meals. If your priority is convenience—especially if cooking time cuts into your day significantly—then the extra cost might be justified. It could save you from resorting to potentially less healthy, last-minute dining options.

    Tailoring Your Subscription Experience

    The primary goal is to find a service that fits seamlessly into your life. Think about how certain features of Gobble and Freshly might cater to your unique lifestyle needs.

    Subscription Flexibility

    The flexibility of your subscription is another critical factor to weigh. Both Gobble and Freshly offer plans that can be adjusted or paused, but knowing the specifics can help you choose. Gobble allows you to skip weeks easily, catering to sporadic meal planning. Freshly’s ability to change delivery dates or quantities can be beneficial when your schedule varies.

    If you travel frequently or have an unpredictable routine, the adaptability of these services makes meal planning stress-free. Being able to adjust your plan ensures you don’t end up wasting food or money.

    Portion Sizes and Dietary Needs

    The portion sizes and how they align with your dietary needs also matter. Gobble’s meals are typically designed for two or four servings, making it ideal for families or couples. If you enjoy family-style dining or need multiple portions, this can be very advantageous.

    On the flip side, Freshly specializes in single-serving portions, which might better suit solo diners or those who prefer not to have leftovers. This single-serving system also aids in managing calorie intake and portions more effectively.

    Ease of Use and Convenience

    Beyond just the food, consider the ease of use of each service. Gobble’s meal kits require some light cooking, but they also give you a sense of accomplishment and a “home-cooked” meal feel. It’s a slight trade-off between convenience and the joy of cooking.

    Freshly’s meals are the epitome of convenience—perfect for the absolutely time-starved. It’s as simple as heat and eat, rivaling the convenience of fast food but with the benefits of balanced nutrition.

    Which to choose, Gobble or Freshly

    Deciding between Gobble and Freshly comes down to your individual lifestyle, time constraints, and meal preferences. Each service offers its own benefits and suits different needs.

    Convenience and Flexibility

    For those seeking a blend of convenience and a bit of cooking, Gobble is likely the winner. It offers the ease of prepared ingredients and quick, manageable cooking times. Busy families and anyone wanting a bit of hands-on involvement in their meals may find Gobble a better match.

    Freshly, with its ready-to-eat approach, takes care of all meal prep, making it an excellent option for individuals with little to no time for cooking. Its flexibility, diverse menu options, and no-fuss preparation make it appealing for those who need quick, straightforward meal solutions.

    Assessing Cost and Value

    Both services provide value in different ways. Gobble’s meal kits might be more budget-friendly in the long run for larger families or bulk eaters. The joy of partially cooking a meal can also be a bonus for those who appreciate the process.

    Though Freshly’s pricing is on the higher side, the saving grace is the significant time saved from meal prep. For working professionals or students, this time saved could be a game-changer, justifying the added cost.

    Personal Preferences and Culinary Experience

    Finally, personal preferences play a significant role. Gobble offers a more interactive meal preparation experience, which can be fun and fulfilling. Freshly offers a no-hassle, immediate solution to hunger, prioritizing time efficiency and ease.

    In the end, what matters most is that the service you choose makes your life easier, whether that means spending less time in the kitchen or enjoying the cooking process. Both Gobble and Freshly serve different purposes and can meet diverse needs effectively.

    FAQs

    How do Gobble and Freshly handle dietary restrictions?

    Gobble offers limited customization options for dietary restrictions. However, they do provide some meals that cater to common dietary preferences. Freshly, on the other hand, has a variety of meals specifically designed to comply with dietary needs like gluten-free, low-calorie, and high-protein diets.

    Can I skip a week or cancel my subscription easily?

    Yes, both Gobble and Freshly allow you to skip a week or cancel your subscription without much hassle. Their flexible subscription plans are designed to fit different lifestyles, so you can adjust your deliveries as needed without incurring penalties.

    How is the packaging for both services in terms of sustainability?

    Gobble uses eco-friendly packaging, and most of their materials are recyclable. Freshly also emphasizes sustainable packaging and aims to reduce waste through recyclable meal containers. Both companies are committed to environmentally conscious practices, although Freshly’s individual meal containers might generate more packaging waste compared to Gobble’s kits.

    Do both services offer a trial period or introductory discount?

    Gobble and Freshly frequently offer introductory discounts for new subscribers, allowing you to try their services at a reduced rate. These offers can usually be found on their respective websites, giving you a chance to gauge if the service meets your needs before committing.

    What kind of support is available if there’s an issue with my delivery?

    Both Gobble and Freshly have robust customer support systems. If an issue arises with your delivery—such as missing items, damaged packages, or any other concerns—you can contact their support teams for quick resolution. They generally offer refunds, replacements, or credits to your account depending on the problem.

    How do the meal plans differ in terms of pricing?

    Gobble’s meal kits tend to be slightly cheaper compared to Freshly’s fully-prepared meals. This price difference reflects the additional convenience Freshly provides by delivering meals that require no cooking. Both companies offer multiple pricing tiers based on the number of meals or servings per week you choose.

    Are there options for people with allergies?

    Gobble includes ingredient lists and potential allergens in their meal kits, letting you decide if a meal suits your needs. Freshly also provides detailed ingredient information and labels meals that are free from certain allergens, but neither can guarantee a completely allergen-free environment.

    Can I choose my meals each week?

    Yes, both Gobble and Freshly offer the flexibility to choose your meals each week. They provide a rotating menu, and you can select meals that appeal to you based on your dietary needs and preferences.

    What is the average cook time for Gobble meals compared to Freshly?

    Gobble’s meals are designed to be quick and easy, typically requiring around 15 minutes of cooking time. Freshly meals only need to be reheated, taking just 3 to 5 minutes, making them much faster if you’re in a hurry.

    Gobble vs Freshly Summary

    Choosing between Gobble and Freshly depends largely on your lifestyle and priorities. Gobble is great for those who still want to engage in cooking but lack the time for extensive meal prep, making it ideal for family dinners or anyone who loves a fresh meal. Freshly shines for individuals who need utter convenience, with fully-prepared meals that require no effort beyond reheating. Both services provide flexible subscription plans and cater to different dietary needs. Understanding these nuances can help you pick the meal service that best complements your life.