Feeding babies and toddlers nutritious, high-quality meals is a top priority for modern parents, but balancing busy schedules with healthy food preparation can be challenging. That’s where Little Spoon enters the picture—offering organic, nutritionist-crafted baby and toddler meals delivered right to your doorstep. But the burning question remains: How much does Little Spoon cost?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at Little Spoon’s pricing structure, menu options, and how it stacks up against competitors, empowering you to make an informed decision about whether this premium baby food service is worth your investment.
What Is Little Spoon?
Before diving into cost, it’s important to understand what Little Spoon actually offers. Founded in 2017, Little Spoon is a subscription-based service that delivers nutrient-dense, organic, and scientifically formulated meals for babies, toddlers, and even children with specialized dietary needs.
Their mission is simple: make healthy eating easier and more accessible for families by eliminating the guesswork in infant nutrition. Each meal is designed by pediatric nutritionists and made without artificial additives, GMOs, or preservatives. The company’s line includes:
- Blends: Organic pureed meals for babies starting solids.
- Proteins+: Meals packed with plant-based and animal protein for older infants.
- Grow Well: Toddler meals and snacks supporting cognitive and immune development.
- Immunity+: Supplements and immune-boosting smoothies for kids.
Their meals are delivered frozen and ready to serve—just thaw and warm. They also offer dietary-specific options, including vegan, dairy-free, and allergen-conscious blends.
Understanding Little Spoon’s Pricing Structure
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter: cost. Little Spoon’s pricing varies depending on the product line, plan size, and frequency of delivery. As of 2024, the company operates on a subscription model, with discounts for larger weekly orders and flexible delivery options.
Blends (Age 4–12 Months): Starting Solids
Little Spoon’s most popular offering, Blends, is designed for babies just beginning their solid food journey. These pureed meals are composed of organic fruits, vegetables, and grains, often introducing diverse flavors and textures at a pace ideal for early eaters.
Standard Pricing for Baby Blends
Little Spoon offers several options for its Blends line. Pricing is based on the number of pouches per week:
| Weekly Pouch Count | Price Per Pouch | Total Weekly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 9 pouches | $3.88 | $34.99 |
| 15 pouches | $3.33 | $49.99 |
| 21 pouches | $3.09 | $64.99 |
| 30 pouches | $2.83 | $84.99 |
Pricing drops per pouch as volume increases, making larger orders more economical. For example, a family feeding their baby three meals a day may go through about 21 pouches per week (3 pouches x 7 days), which aligns with the $64.99 weekly plan.
Factors Influencing Cost of Blends
While the listed prices seem transparent, several details can affect your actual cost:
- Shipping: Little Spoon offers free shipping on all subscription plans. This is a major cost-saver, especially since many competitors charge $5–$10 per delivery.
- Tax: Sales tax may apply depending on your state of residence.
- Introductory Offers: First-time subscribers often receive discounts, such as 50% off the first box or bonus pouches. These promotions significantly reduce initial costs.
- Skip or Cancel Any Time: The subscription is flexible, allowing you to pause or cancel without penalty, which helps avoid overpaying during travel or when transitioning to self-feeding.
Proteins+ (Ages 8–18 Months): Adding More Nutrient Density
As babies grow, their nutritional needs become more complex. The Proteins+ line is formulated to support developmental milestones with ingredients like organic quinoa, lentils, and lean meats (e.g., chicken, turkey).
How Much Do Proteins+ Meals Cost?
Proteins+ pouches are slightly more expensive due to higher production costs and nutrient-dense ingredients:
| Weekly Pouch Count | Price Per Pouch | Total Weekly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 7 pouches | $4.28 | $29.99 |
| 12 pouches | $4.08 | $48.99 |
| 18 pouches | $3.83 | $68.99 |
Note: The 7-pouch plan is priced at $29.99 despite fewer pouches, but it offers the highest price per pouch. For families wanting regular inclusion of protein-rich meals, the 18-pouch option becomes more cost-effective.
Parents often supplement their baby’s diet with a mix of regular Blends and Proteins+ meals. Little Spoon allows customization, so you can combine options across different lines—though pricing may vary.
Grow Well (Ages 12+ Months): Toddler Nutrition Made Easy
Little Spoon doesn’t stop at baby food. The Grow Well line is specially crafted for toddlers (12–36 months) who need balanced meals to support energy, brain development, and immune health. This includes finger foods, mini meals, and nutrient-dense snacks.
Grow Well Pricing and Options
The Grow Well menu includes individual meals, snack packs, and smoothies. Here’s how much you can expect to pay:
| Product Type | Items Per Box | Total Cost | Cost Per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grow Well Meals | 6 meals | $41.99 | $7.00 |
| Grow Well Snacks | 9 snacks | $24.99 | $2.78 |
| Grow Well Smoothies | 16 oz. bottle | $2.99 | $2.99 |
| Grow Well + Smoothies Bundle | 6 meals + 14 smoothies | $79.99 | $4.00 avg. |
The Grow Well line is ideal for picky eaters or busy parents who want confidence in every meal. At about $7 per meal, it’s pricier than making food at home but comparable to premium organic toddler meals in stores.
Hidden Costs and Savings Opportunities
While the listed prices give a baseline, real-world costs can fluctuate based on how you use the service.
One-Time Costs vs. Recurring Costs
If you’re just starting, Little Spoon offers trial boxes or starter kits that may cost less than regular pricing. For example, a common promotion includes:
- First box: $15 for 9 Blends pouches (normally $34.99)
- Free sample pack: $0, with just shipping of $3.99
These one-time deals help reduce the barrier to entry and allow you to test meals before committing.
Are There Any Additional Fees?
Little Spoon prides itself on transparency, and there are no hidden fees for:
- Shipping
- Cancellation or skipping
- Menu customization (within plan limits)
All plans include free delivery via FedEx or UPS, and packaging is recyclable and eco-friendly. Some parents report insulated liners can be repurposed for lunch boxes, adding value.
Can You Save with Bundling or Multi-Child Orders?
While Little Spoon doesn’t offer formal family or multi-child discounts, you can often save by batching orders. For instance:
- Order more pouches weekly to benefit from lower per-unit costs.
- Mix high-use items (Blends) with periodic buys (Proteins+) to customize value.
- Use referral programs: Little Spoon offers credits (e.g., $15 off for you and a friend) when you refer other parents.
Subscribers who plan meals across developmental stages (e.g., Blends for baby + Grow Well for older sibling) can streamline costs by syncing delivery schedules.
How Does Little Spoon Compare to Competitors?
To truly understand if Little Spoon is worth the price, it helps to compare it to alternatives.
Little Spoon vs. Homemade Baby Food
Making baby food at home is the most cost-effective option—if you have the time. Here’s a rough comparison:
| Food Option | Avg. Cost Per Meal | Time Required | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Homemade (DIY) | $0.50–$1.50 | High (chopping, steaming, storing) | Low |
| Little Spoon | $2.83–$4.28 | None | High |
| Store-Bought Organic Pouches | $1.50–$3.00 | Low | Medium |
While homemade food costs a fraction, it demands prep time, storage knowledge, and access to organic ingredients. Little Spoon saves hours per week, which may be worth the premium for working parents.
Little Spoon vs. Other Meal Delivery Services
Several companies offer similar services. Here’s how Little Spoon stacks up against major competitors:
| Company | Price Per Pouch | Organic | Free Shipping | Custom Nutrition Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Spoon | $2.83–$4.28 | Yes | Yes | Yes (age, allergies, preferences) |
| SpoonfulONE (Allergen Introduction) | $3.00–$3.50 | Partially | Yes (on subscriptions) | Limited |
| Once Upon a Farm | $3.50–$4.50 | Yes | No ($9.99 avg. shipping) | No |
| Babyganics Store-Bought | $1.79–$2.50 | No (some lines) | N/A | No |
What sets Little Spoon apart is its nutritional personalization. When you sign up, you complete a feeding quiz that guides recipe recommendations based on your child’s age, texture tolerance, allergies, and flavor preferences. This level of customization is rare in the industry.
Additionally, free shipping gives Little Spoon a significant edge over Once Upon a Farm and others that charge delivery fees.
Is Little Spoon Worth the Cost?
This is the ultimate question for budget-conscious parents. The answer depends on your priorities: time, nutrition, convenience, and peace of mind.
When Little Spoon Is a Great Value
- Busy schedules: If you work full-time or lack time to prep food, the convenience justifies the cost.
- Concern for ingredients: Little Spoon uses certified organic, non-GMO ingredients—ideal for parents avoiding pesticide exposure.
- Allergies or dietary restrictions: Their allergen-conscious options (dairy-free, nut-free, etc.) are rigorously tested and labeled.
- Picky eaters: The carefully crafted blends can help introduce new flavors in a palatable way.
- Toddler nutrition gaps: Grow Well meals target nutrients like iron, zinc, and omega-3s that are often low in picky children’s diets.
When You Might Save Money Elsewhere
That said, Little Spoon may not be the best fit for everyone:
- If you enjoy cooking and have time, homemade meals are dramatically cheaper.
- If your child eats a wide variety of family food by 12 months, the need for specialized toddler meals diminishes.
- Store brands like Gerber Organic or Happy Family Organics offer similar quality at lower prices, albeit with less convenience and personalization.
Real Parent Reviews: What Customers Say About the Cost
To assess real-world value, let’s consider insights from actual Little Spoon subscribers:
Positive Feedback:
- “Worth every penny. My baby has dairy sensitivity, and I trust Little Spoon’s sourcing.” – Sarah, CA
- “I save at least 5 hours a week not making baby food. The delivery is reliable and packaging is excellent.” – James, NY
- “The variety keeps my toddler interested. He eats more vegetables with Little Spoon than he does at home.” – Priya, TX
Mixed or Critical Feedback:
- “Great quality, but it adds up. We use it for daycare only and make food at home otherwise.” – Megan, CO
- “I wish the Proteins+ pouches were larger. My 10-month-old eats two per meal.” – Ryan, IL
These testimonials suggest that while cost is a consideration, many parents find the service valuable enough to justify the expense—especially when factoring in time saved and nutritional assurance.
How to Maximize Value with Little Spoon
Even if Little Spoon seems expensive at first glance, smart usage can stretch your dollar further. Here are tips to get the most out of your subscription:
Start Small and Scale Up
Begin with a 9-pouch trial to test flavors and textures. Once you know your baby’s preferences, adjust the plan. You can always increase pouch count later.
Mix and Match Lines
Create custom meal plans by combining Blends, Proteins+, and Grow Well. For example:
- Use Blends for breakfast and snack
- Upgrade to Proteins+ for lunch and dinner
- Add Grow Well snacks for toddlers
This allows you to optimize price per nutrient while customizing for taste.
Use Promo Codes and Refer Friends
Little Spoon regularly runs promotions for new customers. Watch for:
- Email sign-up discounts
- Holiday sales (e.g., Black Friday, New Year’s)
- Referral rewards (earn $15 credit)
Check parenting forums, social media, or coupon sites like RetailMeNot for active promo codes.
Freeze and Stretch Servings
While Little Spoon meals are pre-portioned, you can freeze opened pouches (if consumed within 24 hours) or mix them with breast milk or formula to stretch servings for younger babies who eat less.
Final Thoughts: Is Little Spoon Affordable in the Long Run?
So, how much does Little Spoon cost? The answer isn’t a single number, but a range:
- Starting at $2.83 per pouch for larger Blends plans.
- Average weekly costs from $30 to $85, depending on usage.
- Total monthly expenditure: anywhere from $120 to $350.
While it’s clearly a premium service, Little Spoon delivers on several fronts: convenience, quality ingredients, nutrition science, and parental peace of mind. For parents who value time, transparency, and tailored nutrition, the cost is not justifiable—it’s essential.
If you’re weighing whether to try Little Spoon, consider starting with a discounted trial. Use it during a hectic week or while traveling. You may find that the time and stress saved far outweigh the extra expense.
Ultimately, Little Spoon isn’t just selling baby food—it’s selling confidence. And for many parents, that’s priceless.
By understanding the pricing structure, comparing it to alternatives, and using strategies to maximize value, you can decide whether Little Spoon fits your family’s budget—and lifestyle.
What is Little Spoon and what kind of products do they offer?
Little Spoon is a subscription-based baby food and kids’ nutrition company that specializes in delivering fresh, organic, and non-GMO meals directly to parents’ doors. Their product line includes blends for infants (such as Stage 1 and Stage 2 purees), toddler meals, and snacks like Mini-Meals and Daily Bites. These meals are crafted with whole food ingredients, free from additives, preservatives, and artificial flavors, catering to health-conscious families seeking convenient, nutritious options for their children.
The brand emphasizes transparency and customization, allowing parents to tailor meal plans based on their child’s dietary needs, allergies, and flavor preferences. In addition to traditional baby purees, Little Spoon also offers plant-based and allergen-conscious options. Their packaging is designed to preserve freshness using BPA-free pouches that are easy to store and serve, appealing to busy parents who want quality nutrition without the hassle of meal prep.
How much does a basic Little Spoon subscription cost?
A basic Little Spoon subscription typically starts around $3.50 to $4.50 per meal, depending on the plan and the number of meals ordered per week. For example, a starter plan featuring 10 infant puree pouches per week usually costs about $39.90, which breaks down to approximately $3.99 per pouch. Larger plans with 20 or more meals per week offer slight cost savings per unit, incentivizing bulk purchases.
In addition to infant blends, toddler meal plans such as Mini-Meals start at around $5.50 per meal, with a 7-meal weekly plan priced at approximately $38.50. Shipping is often free for orders over $35, but smaller orders may incur a flat shipping fee of $6.95. The total monthly cost can range from $70 to $150 depending on the child’s age, appetite, and selected meal frequency, making it essential to assess portion needs accurately.
Are there different pricing tiers based on age or meal type?
Yes, Little Spoon’s pricing varies depending on the child’s developmental stage and the type of meals selected. Infant purees (Stages 1–3) are generally the most affordable, averaging $3.50 to $4.50 per pouch. These are smaller portions designed for younger babies just beginning solids. As children grow into the toddler phase, meal sizes and complexity increase, reflected in higher prices.
Toddler-focused products like Mini-Meals, which include balanced dishes such as quinoa bowls and vegetable-packed entrees, average $5.50 per meal. Snack options like Daily Bites are sold in multi-packs and cost around $2.00 to $2.50 per serving. Parents can mix and match products within their subscription, so the final cost depends on the combination of infant, toddler, and snack items included each week.
Does Little Spoon offer discounts or promotions for new customers?
Yes, Little Spoon frequently offers promotional discounts for first-time subscribers, such as 20% to 50% off the first box or a free trial box with minimal shipping fees. These deals are often available through their website or via targeted email campaigns and social media promotions. New customers are encouraged to sign up for the company’s newsletter to stay informed about current offers.
In addition to welcome discounts, Little Spoon occasionally runs seasonal sales, referral programs, or partnerships with parenting networks that provide further savings. Referral credits can be applied to future orders, allowing parents to reduce long-term costs. While introductory deals are limited in duration, they offer a low-risk way to test the product quality and suitability for their child’s taste and dietary needs.
How does Little Spoon’s pricing compare to making homemade baby food?
When compared to homemade baby food, Little Spoon’s convenience comes at a premium. Preparing meals at home using organic produce and proteins typically costs between $0.50 and $1.50 per serving, significantly less than Little Spoon’s $3.50 to $5.50 range. However, this cost does not account for the time spent shopping, washing, cooking, portioning, and storing meals, which can total several hours per week.
For time-strapped parents, Little Spoon’s pricing reflects the value of expertly formulated recipes, safety-tested facilities, ingredient traceability, and delivery logistics. While more expensive per serving, the service saves considerable labor and ensures consistent nutrition, making it a worthwhile investment for families prioritizing both health and convenience. The trade-off is essentially between time and money, with Little Spoon catering to those who value the former.
Can I customize my Little Spoon subscription to fit my budget?
Absolutely—Little Spoon allows full customization of meal plans to align with both dietary needs and budget constraints. Parents can select the number of meals per week, choose specific blends or entrees, and pause or cancel their subscription at any time without penalties. Adjusting the frequency and volume of deliveries helps control monthly spending, making it easier to integrate into varying family budgets.
Additionally, the platform enables users to swap out meals they think their child may not like, avoiding waste and unnecessary costs. By starting with a smaller plan and gradually increasing as needed, parents can manage expenses while still accessing high-quality nutrition. The flexibility to modify ingredients and portion sizes based on the child’s growth also supports long-term cost efficiency.
Is Little Spoon covered by WIC or eligible for FSA/HSA reimbursement?
Currently, Little Spoon is not covered by the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) program, as it does not meet the program’s requirements for shelf-stable or in-store purchasable items. WIC typically supports traditional grocery-store baby foods rather than direct-to-consumer subscription services, even if those products are organic or nutritionally comparable.
However, Little Spoon may qualify for Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) reimbursement if a doctor prescribes the meals for a child with specific medical or dietary needs. While the company does not automatically process these claims, they provide receipts that parents can submit for potential reimbursement. It’s recommended to consult with your FSA/HSA administrator to determine eligibility based on individual plan rules.