Move Over, Purple Carrot: My Favorite Vegan Meal Kit Is a Total Surprise

Purple Carrot has long been hailed as the gold standard for vegan meal kits. But CNET just revealed that's not the whole story.

In a surprising verdict, CNET's latest review names a different service as its favorite vegan meal kit, dethroning Purple Carrot. The finding comes as more consumers seek plant-based meal delivery options. The review highlights that taste, variety, convenience, and value matter more than brand recognition.

Purple Carrot, founded in 2014, was the first 100% vegan meal kit service. It built a loyal following among plant-based eaters. But the market has grown crowded. Services like Green Chef, Sunbasket, and Hungryroot now offer robust vegan plans. CNET's review considered multiple factors: recipe quality, prep time, ingredient freshness, pricing, and customization. Purple Carrot's recipes, while creative, were found to be time-consuming and occasionally lacking in flavor. The new favorite reportedly excels in all areas.

Exactly which service took the top slot remains a surprise — CNET teased the reveal in its article. The runner-up, unnamed in the snippet, apparently won over the reviewer with better balance, quicker prep, and more flexible meal options. The shift underscores a key trend: the best vegan meal kit is no longer a one-size-fits-all label. Consumer expectations have risen. They want meals that are not only plant-based but also restaurant-quality and easy to prepare.

Industry analysts note that the vegan meal kit sector is growing rapidly, driven by both vegans and flexitarians. According to recent market data, the global vegan meal kit market is projected to reach $2.8 billion by 2030, growing at over 11% annually. This growth attracts both established players and new entrants. For Purple Carrot, this review could be a wake-up call. The company may need to revamp its menu, reduce prep times, or offer more customization to maintain its edge.

Looking ahead, the winning service (once named) will likely see a surge in trial subscriptions. The broader impact: consumers now have more options than ever for high-quality vegan meals delivered to their door. The days of settling for the only vegan kit are over. CNET's verdict signals that the best vegan meal kit is up for grabs — and competition is fierce. Watch for Purple Carrot's response and for more comparison reviews from other outlets.