Meal delivery services that bring recipes and ingredients to your door are a growing trend for those who want to cook more. If your goal is weight loss, your priorities may differ from the average consumer's. Below are a few things to investigate as you choose a meal delivery service that is right for you.

Are there options that meet your weight loss needs?

Many of these services provide healthier options, but that doesn’t always mean they will fit your calorie and nutrient needs for weight loss. Some recipes can look deceivingly healthy, only to have upwards of 900 calories and over 1,000 milligrams of sodium in a serving. The nutrition information for the recipes should be available to you before you commit to signing up for the service.

Do the meals contain enough vegetables?

The goal of these services is to make cooking easier, which means many recipes turn to simple ingredients like pasta and rice. Others may contain only a piece of fish and starch, like mashed potatoes. Be sure the recipes use plenty of vegetables for balanced nutrition. If you find yourself constantly adding a salad to every meal, the delivery service may not be a good investment.

Does the amount of prep fit your needs?

New recipes can help prevent boredom and help you discover new foods you enjoy. It’s important to be realistic about how adventurous you want to be in the kitchen. If the recipes you order are filled with unfamiliar ingredients and require more skill than expected, you might find your shipment sitting in the refrigerator at the end of the week. If you are new to cooking, choose a service that provides simple, healthy foods and plenty of instruction to keep you from feeling overwhelmed.

Is there a local service available?

Many delivery services operate nationally and regionally, but more and more local services are popping up in larger cities. While either can be a good option, local services are worth exploring. Recipe kits shipped from far away may contain ingredients that have wilted or spoiled during transit. If a local company is sourcing from farms and stores nearby, your ingredients may be fresher than what national companies can provide.

Lori Rice, M.S., is a nutritional scientist and author with a passion for healthy cooking, exercise physiology, and food photography.