Chiyo Review 2025: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

Overview

Chiyo is a specialized meal delivery service. It’s designed to support women through fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum recovery. By combining Eastern food therapy with Western nutritional science, Chiyo creates nutrient-dense meals tailored to each stage of motherhood.

One of the biggest challenges for new or expecting mothers is maintaining a healthy diet. Balancing this with the demands of pregnancy or caring for a newborn can be difficult. Chiyo simplifies this by offering ready-to-eat meals, eliminating the need for meal planning or preparation. 

Chiyo’s programs are designed for optimal nourishment. Its meal plans cater to different dietary needs and preferences. The menu includes warming broths, protein-rich meals, and nutrient-dense snacks. Each meal is crafted with ingredients known to support hormonal balance, digestion, and overall maternal health.

Meals are delivered fresh and prepared. Local deliveries are available on the East and West Coasts, and nationwide shipping via UPS is available. You can choose from a range of plans, adjusting the number of meals per day and program length to suit your needs.

Chiyo is a premium service, with plans starting at $69 per day. For women seeking a holistic, science-backed approach to maternal health, Chiyo offers a thoughtful and nourishing solution. Keep reading to see if it’s the right fit for you.

Chiyo’s Menu: Meals for Every Stage of Motherhood

Chiyo’s menu is designed to support women through different stages of motherhood, from fertility and pregnancy to postpartum recovery. Each meal plan focuses on nutrient-dense, whole foods that promote overall well-being.

Programs like Hormonal Balance & Fertility and Postpartum Recovery focus on providing nutrient-dense meals tailored to different stages of maternal health. These plans include daily snacks and herbal teas, while postpartum options also feature recovery broths designed to support nourishment.

Chiyo aims to support recovery and well-being during pregnancy and postpartum by incorporating traditional healing foods alongside modern nutritional principles.

Meal Options: Stage-Specific Meals Designed for Optimal Nutrition

Chiyo’s meals support women at different stages of motherhood. Meals incorporate anti-inflammatory ingredients, hormone-balancing foods, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and high-quality protein. The menu focuses on nutrient diversity, ensuring a well-rounded intake of vitamins and minerals crucial for maternal health.

Meals are made with organic ingredients when possible, using whole foods free from additives and preservatives. This aligns with the growing emphasis on clean eating during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Each plan includes snacks, teas, breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all inspired by Eastern medicinal traditions. Chiyo also provides nutritional guidance and support, helping mothers and mothers-to-be navigate their dietary needs during this critical time.

Chiyo’s programs include: 

✅ Fertility Enhance Program: Focuses on hormonal balance with low-glycemic, high-fiber meals rich in antioxidants and omega-3s. Ingredients like chia seeds, lentils, broccoli, seaweed, and oats help regulate estrogen and support reproductive health.

✅ Prenatal Nourish Program: Designed to fortify the body with essential vitamins and minerals crucial for fetal development. Expect nutrient-rich dishes featuring leafy greens, iron-packed proteins, and DHA-rich foods to support mother and baby throughout pregnancy.

✅ Postpartum Restore Program: This program supports healing, lactation, and energy restoration with ancient superfoods known to strengthen bones, promote gut health, and enhance milk production. Meals include warming broths, protein-packed grains, and iron-rich vegetables, which also expose the baby to a variety of flavors through breast milk.

✅ Hormone Balance Program: Designed for women looking to support hormonal health outside of pregnancy. Meals focus on blood sugar balance, reducing inflammation, and stabilizing energy levels with nutrient-dense foods that promote long-term well-being.

Chiyo’s One-Day Trial offers a taste of its meal plans, providing a full day of nutrient-dense meals, snacks, and teas. It’s a great way to experience the flavors and benefits before committing to a longer program.

Customization: Meal Swaps, But No Full Control

Chiyo’s meal programs follow a structured approach. They’re developed with expert nutritional guidance and include a variety of ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits. While the core plans have a set framework, you can make adjustments to better fit your needs.

Chiyo updates its meal offerings weekly, ensuring variety and seasonal ingredients. While you don’t have full control over your meal selection, you can review the upcoming menu and request meal swaps. However, this means repeating a meal from that week’s menu.  

Chiyo offers a gluten-free and dairy-free menu by default. It can accommodate common allergies, including:

• Tree nuts

• Peanuts

• Sesame

• Hemp

• Eggs

• Fish/shellfish

• Red meat 

You can specify these allergies at checkout, and Chiyo will adjust your meals accordingly. However, the ability to exclude specific ingredients is somewhat limited. Chiyo can’t accommodate exclusions for mushrooms, alliums (onions, garlic, etc.), or soy

Also, while Chiyo doesn’t use nut-bearing ingredients in some meal plans, the facility isn’t nut-free, meaning there’s a possibility of trace cross-contact. Those with severe allergies should consider this before subscribing. If you have allergies, explore our top meal delivery services for allergy-friendly options.

Subscribers have access to detailed ingredient lists and nutritional information through their Nutrition Hub, a personalized account dashboard. This lets you stay informed about what’s in your meals and make educated decisions based on their dietary needs.

Support & Guidance for Each Stage of Your Journey

Chiyo offers access to registered dietitians for one-on-one nutrition consultations. It provides guidance on meal planning and dietary needs for different stages of motherhood. This can be useful for those looking for extra support with fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or hormone balance.

You can also book a 15-minute general consultation with Chiyo’s team to discuss meal plans and find the best fit for your needs. While the service blends traditional and modern nutritional approaches, the level of direct support depends on whether you choose to book a consultation.

Chiyo’s Menu at a Glance 

Unboxing: Fresh, Thoughtfully Packaged Meals

Meals arrive in insulated boxes with ice packs to keep everything fresh during transit. If you’re on a 5- or 7-day program, your first delivery includes broths, tonics, snacks, and garnish packs for the week, along with fresh meals for the first 3 days. The second shipment brings the remaining meals. For shorter plans, everything arrives in a single delivery.

Sustainability is a key focus with BPA-free containers using recycled materials. Ice packs can be returned for sanitization and reuse (for local deliveries), while the compostable insulation from nationwide shipments dissolves in water. 

Chiyo’s meals can be frozen to extend shelf life. However, don’t freeze salads, as they should be kept in the fridge. Broths arrive in concentrated form and can be kept in the freezer, while tonics are shelf-stable

Cooking with Chiyo: Nourishing Meals With Minimal Effort

Chiyo’s meals arrive fully prepared, so there’s no need for chopping or cooking – just heat and eat. Heating instructions are provided on the labels. Just be aware that the containers aren’t heat-safe, so you’ll need to transfer food to a microwave- or oven-friendly dish.

The tonics come in tea bag form, and the soups are concentrated and frozen. So you simply add hot water to prepare them. With everything portioned and ready to go, mealtime is simple and hassle-free. 

Shortlist of My Favorite Meals

Here are a few of my favorite-looking meal options from Chiyo’s menu.

Kelp Noodle Japchae

This light yet nutrient-dense meal has a satisfying mix of textures and flavors. Kelp noodles provide a natural source of iodine, which plays a key role in thyroid function and metabolism. Paired with antioxidant-rich vegetables and a savory sauce, it’s designed to support steady energy levels without feeling too heavy.

Mustard Greens, Shiitake & Tempeh Porridge

This hearty meal uses ingredients commonly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for postpartum recovery. Mustard greens are traditionally linked to promoting circulation, while shiitake mushrooms add depth of flavor and immune-supporting compounds. Protein-rich tempeh rounds out the dish, providing essential nutrients for recovery.

Cocoa Quinoa Booster Cookies

These nutrient-dense cookies make for a balanced snack. They include a mix of essential minerals that support hormone regulation and overall well-being. Quinoa contributes magnesium, folate, and zinc – important for hormonal health – while cocoa provides a natural mood boost. A practical way to curb cravings while nourishing the body.

Prices: High-End Investment in Maternal Nutrition

Chiyo's pricing varies based on the program and duration you choose. For example, the 6-week postpartum program costs $517, with the option to add family meals at discounted rates starting at $40 per day for up to 3 family members (excluding snacks, tonics, and broths). You can select either the base or extra program, with the extra program providing additional calories.

The most cost-effective option is the 6-week prepaid or week-to-week subscription. Plans start at $69 per day for a 6-week prepaid, 7-day plan covering lunch and dinner only. If you're curious about Chiyo, a 1-day trial is available for $95, which includes a $75 credit toward a full meal plan.

Additional options include gifting a 1-day trial or a voucher starting at $50. Specialty bundles like the First 40 Days Broth & Tonic Bundle ($198 for 6 weeks) and the Hormonal Balance & Fertility Broth & Tonic Bundle ($154) are also available. The Sheng Hua Tang (Week 1 Postpartum Broth) is offered as an add-on for $30.

Chiyo meals may be eligible for HSA or FSA coverage, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars for health-related expenses. Eligibility depends on your provider’s guidelines, and some may require a Letter of Medical Necessity from a healthcare professional. Check with your provider and visit Chiyo’s website for details.

Chiyo does not accept returns due to food safety concerns, but there is a refund policy for canceled 6-week prepaid programs. For more information, check out the FAQ page.

Shipping & Delivery: Currently Ships Within the Continental US

Chiyo offers both local delivery and nationwide shipping. Local deliveries are made straight from Chiyo's kitchen if you're in NY, NJ, or CT. East Coast deliveries arrive on Mondays and Thursdays, while West Coast deliveries arrive on Tuesdays and Fridays. You'll receive a text with an ETA on delivery day, and if you’re not home, meals can be left at your chosen location.

Chiyo ships via UPS for nationwide orders with free overnight shipping to all contiguous US residential and commercial addresses. Meals are packed in insulated boxes with ice packs to maintain freshness and arrive on Tuesdays and Fridays. Once your order is on its way, you’ll receive an email with tracking details.

All orders must be placed by Thursday at 12 p.m. ET to guarantee delivery for the following week. While deliveries typically reach your doorstep, this depends on parking availability and courier access. Tracking links make it easy to monitor your order, and meals are always insulated to stay fresh until you can bring them inside.

How Chiyo Works (Step by Step Guide)

Getting started with Chiyo is simple. You can either browse and select a specific program that suits your needs or visit the Nutrition Hub, where you'll enter your details and let Chiyo recommend the best program for you.

How to Sign up (Just 5 Simple Steps)

1. Click Get Started: Begin your order by selecting the Get Started with Chiyo button.

2. Choose your program: Pick from 10 tailored options designed to support different stages of health and wellness. 

3. Customize your plan: Select your dietary preferences, number of days per week, meals per day, and program length. 

4. Provide additional details: Enter any relevant information, such as your last menstrual cycle, and choose your delivery date.

5. Checkout: Add your selection to the cart, enter your address and payment details, and complete your order.

Managing Your Subscription

Chiyo offers flexible subscription management, allowing you to adjust, pause, or cancel your meal plan through your online account. Any changes must be made by Thursday at 12 pm ET for the following week's deliveries. After this deadline, modifications aren't possible as meal preparation is already underway.

Customer Service: Responsive Live Chat Feature!

Chiyo offers a range of resources to support customers. These include a newsletter filled with evidence-based articles, recipes, and event updates. If you have specific questions, you can reach out via the website’s contact form or text the concierge at 646-798-2356. Their team is available from 9 am to 5 pm Sunday through Friday and typically responds within 24 hours.

For real-time assistance, Chiyo also provides a live chat option. While there may be a short wait during busy times, I found the agent friendly and responsive. If you need quick answers, live chat is your best bet, as the FAQ page could use better organization. It’s currently a long block of text rather than divided into logical sections.

How Chiyo Compares to Other Meal Delivery Services

Factor vs. Chiyo: Chiyo specializes in maternal nutrition, offering meals tailored to postpartum recovery, fertility, and hormonal balance. However, if you're looking for a broader range of dietary options, Factor could be a better choice. With meal plans for keto, high-protein, and plant-based diets, Factor caters to a wider audience.

HelloFresh vs. Chiyo: Chiyo’s fully prepared meals remove the need for cooking, making it ideal for new mothers. However, if you enjoy the process of cooking and want more variety, HelloFresh is the winner. With easy recipes and ready-made options, HelloFresh offers a customizable meal experience for families and individuals alike.

Green Chef vs. Chiyo: While Chiyo focuses on Eastern food therapy for maternal health, Green Chef offers high-quality, organic ingredients and diverse meal plans. Whether you follow a keto, paleo, or plant-based diet, Green Chef provides meal kits catering to a range of dietary preferences beyond maternal nutrition.

The Bottom Line: Is Chiyo Worth It?

Yes, Chiyo is worth it – but only if you’re specifically looking for a meal delivery service tailored to fertility, pregnancy, or postpartum recovery. Its stage-specific nutrition, inspired by traditional Eastern food therapy, makes it one of the few options dedicated entirely to maternal health. 

However, if you're looking for a more general meal service, you might find better value elsewhere. For a detailed look at other options, check out our article on the best meal delivery services for pregnancy.

Chiyo’s biggest strength is its focus on high-quality, nutrient-dense meals designed to support women's health during key life stages. The convenience of fully prepared, ready-to-eat meals eliminates the hassle of meal prep, making it an excellent option for busy mothers. 

That said, the premium pricing may not fit everyone’s budget. While Chiyo offers flexible plans and subscriptions, the daily cost is higher than many other meal delivery services. If affordability is a concern, alternative meal kits or pre-made options might provide better value while still offering nutritious meals.

Ultimately, Chiyo is best suited for women who want expert-designed meals for maternal health and are willing to pay a premium for the convenience and quality. If you fall into this category, it could be a good investment. But if you're looking for a broader meal selection or a more budget-friendly service, it’s worth exploring other options.

FAQ

How does Chiyo's meal delivery service work?

Chiyo delivers pre-prepared meals designed for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum nutrition. You start by selecting a meal program or using the Nutrition Hub to find the best fit. Meals arrive fresh, ready to eat or heat, with deliveries twice a week for local customers and nationwide shipments on Tuesdays and Fridays. 

How much does Chiyo cost?

Chiyo’s pricing depends on the program length and meals per day. Expect to pay around $15-$25 per meal, with full programs costing several hundred dollars per week. While premium, the cost reflects high-quality ingredients and tailored nutrition.

Is Chiyo organic?

Chiyo uses organic ingredients in its meals whenever possible, but not all meals are fully organic. The focus is on sourcing high-quality, nutrient-dense whole foods, with a strong emphasis on seasonal and responsibly sourced ingredients.

Who is the founder of Chiyo?

Chiyo was co-founded by Britt Martin and Elizabeth Marsh, who combined their nutrition and maternal health expertise to create a meal service focused on traditional Eastern food therapy. It offers science-backed maternal nutrition support and guidance.

Do Chiyo's meals taste nice?

Chiyo’s meals are well-balanced and flavorful, emphasizing fresh, nourishing ingredients. The flavors lean toward traditional East Asian-inspired dishes, with broths, grains, and proteins designed to be gentle on digestion while supporting maternal health.