The Ethical Dilemmas of Meal Kits: Labor Practices and Food Sourcing

Labour practices and food sourcing aren’t always the first things we consider when it comes to the potential pitfalls of shiny pre-packaged meal kits. Packaging often comes to the forefront as a concern along with general environmental issues, but not many focus on the labour force behind these kits.

Within the last decade, meal kit companies have come under fire for health and safety violations, violent incidents and poor treatment of workers. One company was slammed for unsafe conditions that put workers at risk for fractured bones and chemical burns, and there had also been a previous forklift accident within the same year. 

The rapid growth of these companies also means that untrained and unqualified people are hired in order to meet their needs for labour.

Issues with meal kit labour

• Low wages

• Long days

• Repetitive tasks

• Harsh work environment (ex. warehouse kept at cold temperature)

• Sodium polyacrylate used in ice packets potentially hazardous for those who handle it in powdered form

When it comes to the ethical nature of the sourcing of ingredients in meal kits, there are some big picture things to consider. The majority of options in meal kits still centre around meat as the main source of protein, further normalizing animal products as the centre of meals and providing few “flexitarian” options to help reduce meat consumption. Consumers will also trust meal kits that make ethical claims to always make ethical decisions, rather than verifying food sources directly at places like farmers’ markets.

If you are looking for alternative options for prepared meals, consider exploring Easy Platter’s solution for saving time and eating better.