Zero Plastic: Why Our Packaging Costs 10x More – And Is Worth It to Us

That's why at healmeal, we invest in recyclable zero-plastic packaging

At Healmeal, we could take the easy way out: use cheap plastic packaging, pack more meals per box, and lower costs.

But that would contradict our principles. Instead, we pay 10 times more for packaging that is completely plastic-free and compostable – because quality and sustainability are non-negotiable for us.

100% recyclable – everything, really

Many companies advertise sustainable packaging, but only mean the outer shell. With us, truly everything is compostable:

• The container: Pressed from cellulose (plant material like wood) – as natural as it gets
• The film: PLA film made from sugarcane – completely plastic-free
• The transport packaging: Made from recycled paper
• Composting time: Approx. 90 days – not as fast as a banana peel, but fully biodegradable according to DIN standard

This means you can throw the packaging in the organic waste or thermally recycle it. No microplastics settling in your food. No toxic chemicals transferring to your food when heated.

Can I heat healmeal directly in the packaging?

A question we often get asked: What happens if I heat the meal in the packaging?

The answer is simple: Nothing bad. The container is made of cellulose – basically like wood. It's like heating your food in a wooden bowl. Completely natural, no harmful substances that could transfer to the food.

Important note on air fryers:

Officially, the manufacturer does not recommend the packaging for air fryers (fire safety reasons, mainly due to the film). However, we have tested it extensively, and it works very well – just make sure the film on the sides does not get too close to the heating elements.

The true cost of sustainability

Our packaging costs us more than 10 times what conventional plastic packaging would. Why do we accept this?

1. No compromises on health

Conventional plastic packaging can release microplastics and harmful chemicals into food – especially when heated. This does not align with our aim to provide you with the healthiest meal possible.

2. Transport efficiency? Irrelevant.

Only 7 meals fit into one of our sustainable transport boxes. With conventional plastic packaging, we could pack 10-14 meals per box. This would drastically reduce the cost per meal. But we still don't do it – because the ready-to-eat and environmental factor is more important to us than short-term profits.

3. The Healmeal Standard

Healmeal started as a private chef service – Felix cooked for individuals and delivered food in IKEA boxes, some of which cost more than the food itself. Many boxes never came back because they were so beautiful. We want to maintain this exact standard: no compromises on quality, whether it's the food or the packaging.

Ready-to-eat convenience meets sustainability

Our packaging is not only sustainable but also practical:

• Sealed and ready-to-eat – take it anywhere
• Can be heated directly (air fryer, water bath, oven)
• Stable and leak-proof for on-the-go

The convenience of a meal prep solution combined with the clear conscience of completely sustainable packaging – that's the difference we want to make.

healmeal supports the NaBu Verein Deutschland with every meal

Sustainable packaging is just the beginning. With every Healmeal you buy, you actively support local nature conservation projects throughout Germany through our partnership with NABU Habichtswand (Nature And Biodiversity Conservation Union Germany).

Together with NABU, we are committed to:

• The protection of native animal and plant species
• The preservation of valuable habitats
• Local nature conservation projects throughout Germany
• Sustainable environmental education

Thus, each of your meals becomes a small contribution to an intact nature – right on your doorstep.

At Healmeal, we don't cut corners where it matters. Our packaging costs 10 times more – and it's worth it to us. Because what good is the healthiest food if it swims in plastic that releases microplastics into the food and pollutes the environment?

We sell on quality, not on price. We take the inconvenient, expensive route – because it's the right one. From sourcing the best legumes to compostable packaging and supporting NABU: At Healmeal, you get uncompromising quality and actively do good for nature.

Looking at the bigger picture:

Your health, animal welfare, the environment, local nature conservation – everything counts. And that's why we don't do things by halves.