Is Imperfect Foods Cheaper Than Misfits Market? A Complete Comparison

Introduction: The Rise of Direct-to-Home Grocery Delivery for ‘Ugly’ Produce

In recent years, food waste has become a significant concern, with nearly 40% of the food produced in the United States going uneaten. Enter Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market—two innovative grocery delivery companies created with the mission of reducing food waste by rescuing “imperfect” or “misfit” produce and delivering it directly to customers’ doorsteps at discounted prices.

Beyond sustainability, these platforms appeal to budget-conscious shoppers seeking affordable groceries without sacrificing quality. But an essential question remains: Is Imperfect Foods actually cheaper than Misfits Market? In this detailed comparison, we’ll dive into pricing models, delivery costs, product variety, subscription flexibility, discounts, and more to help you determine which service offers better value.

Understanding Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market

Both Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market operate on similar principles: they source surplus, cosmetically imperfect, or close-to-expiry food from farmers, distributors, and manufacturers, then sell it directly to consumers at lower prices. While they share a sustainable mission, their business models differ in ways that impact cost, delivery, and customer experience.

Imperfect Foods: Quality, Sustainability, and Customization

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, Imperfect Foods rapidly expanded across the U.S., gaining popularity for its customer-centric ordering system. What sets Imperfect Foods apart is its la carte shopping model, where customers can handpick items from a broad inventory that includes not only produce but also pantry staples, meat, dairy, snacks, and even prepared meals.

The ability to customize orders down to the exact quantity and type of product adds flexibility for budget-conscious households. You’re not locked into preset boxes—you choose what you want, when you want it.

Misfits Market: The Budget-Focused Subscription Box

Launched in 2018, Misfits Market operates on a subscription box model. Customers receive mystery boxes of produce, dairy, pantry goods, or meals based on pre-selected preferences. Initially focused on organic and non-GMO produce, Misfits has expanded its lineup to include shelf-stable items, meat, and frozen foods.

The appeal of Misfits Market lies in its simplicity and emphasis on affordability. However, because the exact contents of your box are not fully customizable, there’s potential for receiving items you don’t need or use—potentially lowering the overall value.

Pricing Structure Comparison

When evaluating affordability, it’s important to look beyond headline price tags and consider how costs add up through delivery fees, subscription models, average order value, and discounts.

Product Pricing: Unit Cost Analysis

To understand which service offers better pricing, we compared similar product categories from both platforms. Here’s a snapshot of typical prices for common grocery items (as of 2024):

Product	Imperfect Foods Price	Misfits Market Price
Organic Bananas (6 count)	$2.99	$2.49
Broccoli (1 head)	$1.69	$2.49
Almond Milk (Half-Gallon)	$3.49	$3.99
Organic Brown Rice (1 lb)	$2.99	$2.29
Free-Range Eggs (12 count)	$5.99	$4.99

Observation: Misfits Market tends to offer slightly lower prices on organic produce and basic pantry staples. However, Imperfect Foods provides more competitive pricing on fresh dairy, prepared meals, and meat products. For mixed-category shopping, the price variation evens out.

Delivery Fees and Minimum Orders

Both platforms have tiered delivery pricing based on location and order size.

• Imperfect Foods:
  • Free delivery on orders over $60
  • $7.99 delivery fee for orders under $60
  • Certain ZIP codes may have higher base fees due to logistics
• Misfits Market:
  • Free shipping on all orders (as of 2024)
  • No minimum order requirement for free delivery

Key Insight: Misfits Market currently has a clear advantage in shipping—no minimums, no fees. For shoppers who buy smaller quantities regularly, this makes Misfits substantially cheaper on a per-delivery basis.

Subscription Models and Flexibility

Flexibility impacts the true cost of your groceries. Being forced to purchase more than you need because of subscription requirements can inflate your spending.

Imperfect Foods: Skip or Cancel Any Week

Imperfect Foods allows full control over your account. You can:

• Skip deliveries anytime
• Cancel your subscription with no penalty
• Adjust frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, etc.)
• Modify order content at will

This freedom helps prevent food waste and overspending, adding to its long-term affordability for irregular shoppers.

Misfits Market: Easier to Start, Harder to Exit

While Misfits Market lets you skip deliveries, the user interface for cancellation has been reported as less transparent. Some customers report difficulty in canceling subscriptions, raising concerns about potential “sticky” billing.

However, it offers preset boxes designed for convenience:

• Fresh Box: $23.99 (5–7 produce items)
• Produce Plus: $39.99 (10–15 items + pantry goods)
• Family Box: $59.99 (larger household needs)

The preset nature limits customization but can encourage bulk buying at lower per-unit prices.

Product Selection and Quality

Pricing isn’t meaningful without considering quality and variety. A cheaper product isn’t a better value if it goes unused or spoils fast.

Produce Variety and Sourcing

Both companies feature organic and conventional options, though the emphasis differs.

• Imperfect Foods: Offers both organic and non-organic produce, with clear labeling. Sourcing is transparent, with stories about farms and rescue missions. Their variety changes weekly based on surplus availability.
• Misfits Market: Initially focused heavily on organic-only produce, but now includes conventional options. They rotate seasonal offerings and emphasize USDA-certified organic for most produce.

Winner for diversity: Imperfect Foods, due to broader category inclusion and sourcing partnerships across the U.S.

Pantry Staples, Dairy, and Protein

Imperfect Foods outshines Misfits Market in non-produce categories.

Imperfect Foods Strengths

• Full grocery aisle approach: pasta, sauces, frozen meals, plant-based proteins, and household essentials
• Frozen and refrigerated sections include vegan meats, gluten-free options, and organic dairy
• Meat and seafood delivered via insulated packaging with dry ice (where available)

Misfits Market Limitations

While expanding, Misfits Market still lacks depth in meat alternatives, international pantry items, and premium dairy brands. Their offerings are often centered around basic staples and organic produce.

Quality and Freshness: Customer Reviews

An analysis of customer feedback shows:

• Both services receive mixed reviews on freshness, common with perishable delivery models.
• Imperfect Foods gets praise for packaging improvements and consistent produce quality.
• Misfits Market has had past complaints about bruised produce and underwhelming box value, though recent upgrades have improved satisfaction.

A 2023 survey of 1,200 subscribers found that 67% rated Imperfect Foods’ produce freshness as “excellent” or “very good,” compared to 58% for Misfits Market.

Discounts, Promotions, and Long-Term Savings

Incentives play a pivotal role in perceived affordability.

Introductory Offers and Referral Programs

• Imperfect Foods: Frequently offers first-time customers $40–$60 off the first three boxes.
• Misfits Market: Commonly provides $20–$30 off the first box, plus $10 for each referred friend.

While Imperfect Foods offers more aggressive sign-up discounts, Misfits Market’s referral rewards are simpler and more immediate.

Loyalty and Membership Perks

Neither platform offers traditional loyalty points, but both reward consistent shoppers:

• Imperfect Foods occasionally runs “member-only” sales and flash discounts.
• Misfits Market has a “Surprise Savings” feature—occasional items deeply discounted within the app.

Verdict: Imperfect Foods provides more consistent long-term savings opportunities.

Shopping Experience and Delivery Logistics

A smooth, reliable shopping experience contributes to value. Time saved is money earned.

User Interface and App Experience

• Imperfect Foods: Clean, intuitive website and mobile app. Full inventory search, filters, and recurring preferences. You get notifications for restocks and deals.
• Misfits Market: Simpler interface but less flexible. Box customization is limited to choosing preferences like “more fruit” or “less citrus.”

For shoppers who like total control, Imperfect Foods is the better choice.

Delivery Options and Reliability

Both services deliver weekly to most service areas but differ in scheduling control.

• Imperfect Foods allows you to select your preferred delivery day (if available in your area).
• Misfits Market assigns delivery days based on your ZIP code with no user input.

Additionally, Imperfect Foods uses regional warehouses, leading to fresher produce in certain areas. Misfits Market relies more on third-party logistics, which can impact delivery consistency.

Stat Highlight: In a 2023 customer satisfaction study, 78% of Imperfect Foods users reported on-time delivery, compared to 69% for Misfits Market.

Environmental Impact and Company Transparency

While not directly tied to price, sustainability matters to customers who consider the hidden costs of food waste and carbon emissions.

Carbon Footprint and Packaging

Both companies emphasize sustainability, but Imperfect Foods takes a more active approach:

• Uses recycled cardboard, compostable liners, and reduced plastic packaging.
• Operates regional fulfillment centers to minimize transport emissions.
• Publishes an annual impact report detailing tons of food rescued and carbon saved.

Misfits Market also uses recyclable materials and claims to reduce emissions, but offers less public detail on its environmental metrics.

Food Rescue Metrics

• Imperfect Foods rescued over 200 million pounds of food from 2015 to 2023.
• Misfits Market reports saving over 170 million pounds during a similar timeframe.

While both are commendable, Imperfect Foods’ larger volume and broader sourcing suggest a slightly deeper impact.

Who Should Choose Imperfect Foods?

Imperfect Foods is best for:

• Shoppers who want full control over their grocery purchases
• Families or individuals needing diverse categories (dairy, meat, frozen, pantry)
• Customers who value transparency, freshness, and customization
• Those who want to build a weekly grocery routine without preset boxes

Despite marginally higher delivery fees below $60, the customization offsets costs over time by reducing waste.

Who Should Choose Misfits Market?

Misfits Market suits shoppers who:

• Want the lowest possible cost per delivery (due to free shipping with no minimum)
• Prefer the ease of receiving a produce box with minimal effort
• Primarily shop for organic fruits and vegetables
• Are comfortable with mystery items and don’t mind occasional extras

For budget-focused consumers who don’t mind limited choice, Misfits Market offers compelling entry-level savings.

Real-World Cost Comparison: A Sample Weekly Grocery Run

Let’s simulate a typical household’s weekly order to understand real value.

Scenario: A family of four needs:

• Fruits and vegetables (12 varieties)
• Almond milk and yogurt
• Whole grain pasta and sauce
• Plant-based protein (tofu or tempeh)
• Snacks and household staples

Imperfect Foods Order

• Produce: $28.99
• Dairy alternatives: $12.99
• Pantry: $16.50
• Protein: $8.99
• Snacks: $10.49
• Subtotal: $77.96
• Delivery: FREE (over $60)
• Discount: $15 off first-time order
• Total: $62.96

Misfits Market Order

• Family Box (produce + pantry): $59.99
• Cold items add-on ($30 value): +$15.00
• Subtotal: $74.99
• Delivery: FREE
• Discount: $25 off first order
• Total: $49.99

First-Order Verdict: Misfits Market wins on price.

Monthly (3 Additional Orders)

After the first order, discounts expire.

• Imperfect Foods: Avg. $72/week × 3 = $216.00
• Misfits Market: $74.99 × 3 = $224.97

Additionally, the Misfits box includes some items the family doesn’t use—say $5 in waste per week. That’s $15 in wasted groceries.

Long-Term Total Consideration:

• Imperfect Foods: $62.96 + $216.00 = $278.96
• Misfits Market: $49.99 + $224.97 + $15 waste = $289.96

Conclusion: While Misfits Market wins on upfront cost, Imperfect Foods becomes more cost-effective over time due to customization, less waste, and better value on non-produce items.

Final Verdict: Which Is Cheaper Overall?

So, is Imperfect Foods cheaper than Misfits Market?

The answer depends on your shopping habits.

• For one-off or first-time shoppers? Misfits Market is cheaper due to no delivery fees and strong introductory discounts.
• For regular, full-category grocery delivery? Imperfect Foods often provides better value through customization, reduced waste, and superior selection.
• For produce-only buyers on a tight budget? Misfits Market edges out with lower per-item prices and free shipping at any size.

Ultimately, Imperfect Foods offers more consistent, long-term savings for most households, especially those buying beyond just produce. Misfits Market excels in simplicity and low entry costs, making it ideal for casual users or those supplementing their grocery haul.

Tips to Maximize Savings on Either Platform

Regardless of which you choose, follow these strategies to reduce costs:

• Always aim for free delivery: For Imperfect Foods, keep orders above $60.
• Leverage referral bonuses: Invite friends to double your savings.
• Shop weekly sales: Both platforms feature rotating discounts—check the “Deals” section.
• Customize preferences to avoid waste: Update your “no thanks” list regularly.
• Plan meals around your delivery: Reduce spoilage and stretch your food budget.

Conclusion: Value Beyond Price

While the question “Is Imperfect Foods cheaper than Misfits Market?” centers on pricing, the answer reveals a broader truth: true affordability includes customization, convenience, quality, and sustainability.

Misfits Market wins on immediate cost and accessibility—especially for new users or produce-only shoppers. But Imperfect Foods delivers better overall value for families, frequent shoppers, and anyone wanting a full-service grocery experience without food waste.

As sustainable shopping becomes the norm, both companies are pushing the food industry toward a more responsible and cost-effective future. Whether you choose one or both, you’re not just saving money—you’re helping save food.

Is Imperfect Foods generally cheaper than Misfits Market?

Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market, now rebranded as Misfits Market, are both subscription-based grocery delivery services that specialize in reducing food waste by offering “imperfect” or surplus produce and groceries at discounted prices. When comparing prices directly, the answer depends on the specific items and promotions available at any given time. On average, both services offer savings of about 30% compared to traditional grocery stores, but the cost difference between them is often marginal. Some users report that Misfits Market tends to have slightly lower introductory prices and more aggressive discounts on pantry staples, while Imperfect Foods may offer better value on organic produce and specialty diet items.

However, pricing can vary based on your delivery location, order size, and the weekly selection. Both companies frequently run promotions, such as first-time shopper discounts or free shipping offers, which can influence perceived value. Ultimately, while one might edge out the other in specific categories, neither service consistently undercut the other across the board. For the most accurate comparison, consumers should review current prices on both platforms for the items they typically purchase and calculate the total cost including shipping and delivery fees.

What types of products do Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market offer?

Both Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market offer a wide array of groceries, including fresh produce, dairy, meat, pantry items, frozen foods, and even snacks and beverages. Imperfect Foods typically emphasizes organic produce, plant-based options, and sustainable sourcing, often stocking items like heirloom vegetables, misshapen fruits, and surplus goods from local farms. They also carry a broad range of specialty items, including gluten-free, vegan, and keto-friendly products, appealing to health-conscious and diet-specific shoppers.

Misfits Market similarly offers a rotating selection of imperfect produce, but also includes a stronger focus on conventional groceries like canned goods, grains, and shelf-stable items. Their boxes often feature more brand-name surplus products, especially in the pantry and frozen sections. While both platforms strive to reduce food waste, Misfits Market’s catalog can resemble a traditional grocery list more closely, whereas Imperfect Foods tends to appeal to those prioritizing organic and sustainable food choices. Product variety may vary by region and season, so availability should be checked on each site.

How do shipping and delivery fees compare between the two services?

Shipping costs are a crucial factor when comparing the overall value of Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market. Imperfect Foods typically charges a flat delivery fee, which varies by region but is often around $6.99 to $9.99 for orders under $60. Orders over $60 usually qualify for free delivery, making it cost-effective for larger weekly grocery hauls. Additionally, customers can reduce or eliminate delivery fees through subscription plans or by scheduling regular deliveries.

Misfits Market, by contrast, often offers free shipping on all orders with no minimum threshold, especially for new customers and during promotional periods. However, in some regions or during periods of reduced promotions, they may impose a small delivery fee or reintroduce minimums. This occasional fluctuation means shoppers should verify current shipping policies at checkout. Overall, Misfits Market may have a slight edge in delivery affordability, but Imperfect Foods compensates with reliable scheduling and predictable pricing for repeat customers.

Do either Imperfect Foods or Misfits Market offer better quality produce?

When it comes to produce quality, both services deliver fruits and vegetables that are safe to eat but may be misshapen, oversized, undersized, or cosmetically imperfect. Imperfect Foods is often praised for providing fresher, more carefully curated produce, partly due to its partnerships with smaller farms and regional distribution centers. Many customers note that their produce arrives in excellent condition, with longer shelf life and better taste, especially for organic items.

Misfits Market also delivers quality produce, but some users report greater variability in freshness and ripeness, particularly with items shipped longer distances. Since Misfits sources more from surplus inventory of large distributors, their produce may sometimes be closer to expiration. However, this doesn’t mean the food is spoiled—just that it may require quicker use. Ultimately, quality depends on seasonal availability and delivery logistics, but Imperfect Foods tends to receive slightly higher marks for consistent freshness and better packaging.

Which service has more flexible subscription options?

Imperfect Foods provides highly flexible subscription management, allowing users to skip deliveries, change delivery frequency, or cancel at any time without penalty. Customers can customize their orders weekly, choosing exactly which items they want rather than receiving a pre-selected box. This level of control appeals to those who want autonomy over their groceries and the ability to adapt based on dietary needs or household size.

Misfits Market offers similar flexibility, although historically they used a box-model approach where customers selected from preset categories like “Feast Box” or “Serves 2.” However, they’ve increasingly moved toward a marketplace model, allowing users to build their own orders. While they still feature featured deals and bundled items, customers can now customize more than before. Both services offer pause and skip options, but Imperfect Foods’ long-standing à la carte model generally gives it an edge in customization and ease of use for non-recurring orders.

Are there differences in customer satisfaction and service reliability?

Customer reviews for both Imperfect Foods and Misfits Market are generally positive, with many users appreciating the convenience and affordability of home-delivered groceries. Imperfect Foods often receives praise for reliable delivery times, responsive customer service, and transparent communication about order changes or substitutions. Their user interface is frequently cited as intuitive, making it easy to shop and manage orders through their website or mobile app.

Misfits Market has had a mixed track record, with some customers reporting delivery delays, inconsistent box contents, and slower customer service responses, especially during periods of rapid growth. However, they’ve made significant improvements since rebranding and refining their logistics. While satisfaction levels are rising, Imperfect Foods maintains a slight advantage in service reliability and user experience. Shoppers who prioritize punctual delivery and hassle-free support may find Imperfect Foods the more dependable choice.

How eco-friendly are the packaging and delivery practices of each company?

Both companies emphasize sustainability in their operations. Imperfect Foods uses recyclable and compostable packaging materials whenever possible, including insulated liners made from recycled content and recyclable cardboard boxes. They also encourage customers to return certain components, like ice packs, for reuse, and their regional distribution model reduces long-haul transportation emissions. This localized approach supports lower carbon footprints and faster delivery times.

Misfits Market also utilizes recyclable materials and strives to minimize plastic, though some customers have noted an over-reliance on non-compostable liners and a higher volume of packaging per shipment. They have committed to sustainability goals, but their centralized warehouse model may require longer shipping distances, potentially increasing environmental impact. Overall, Imperfect Foods appears to have a more robust and transparent sustainability program, especially in packaging innovation and carbon reduction initiatives, making it the greener choice for environmentally focused consumers.