BEST ONLINE GROCERYDELIVERY SERVICES

If you’re pressed for time, ordering food online can save you hours a week — and our testing shows that you don’t have to skimp on quality.

FreshDirect

Our Test Kitchen relies on this Bronx, NY–based online grocer for quality fresh ingredients and local meat, seafood and dairy options that can be delivered the next day. The service also offers a wide variety of brands, including smaller ones that may not be in stores yet.

Thrive Market

This membership-based online store, designed to help you save money, offers “a great selection of high-quality natural and organic foods, household products and more at low prices,” says GH Deputy Nutrition Lab Director

Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N.

ButcherBox

We tried and liked a wide assortment of meats from this company that allows you to either curate your own box of grass-fed beef, free-range organic chicken, humanely raised pork and wild-caught seafood or choose from five customized ones.

BUTCHER BOX, FROM $169 FOR CUSTOM BOX (9 TO 14 LBS OF MEAT/30 MEALS)

Imper f ect Foods p. 111

This company “saves” food that stores won’t sell because of surpluses or “imperfections” like odd sizes and scarring, and you can see what the issue was when you shop. Choose from a wide variety of produce, pantry items, meat, dairy and more, delivered to your door weekly.

When shopping online for prepackaged items, how can I ensure quality?

For produce and other fresh items, purchase in-season for the best quality and pricing. For shelf-stable items, check the ingredient list on the site or app before adding to your cart, as you would in a store. Inspect what you receive for damaged or missing items; most services will offer a refund or a discount if you alert them to issues upon delivery.

Great Gadgets Efficient Upgrades

Gizmos worth getting for faster results

Mini Chopper

This cordless whiz blitzes through onions, garlic and herbs. It excels at making dips, sauces and dressings.

KITCHENAID CORDLESS 5-CUP FOOD CHOPPER, $100