How many calories are in a typical meal?

We believe strongly that the quality of the inputs is far more important than the number of calories in a meal. All calories are not created equally (that’s old science) and different foods affect our biological systems (hormonal, metabolic, etc.) in different ways. In our experience, fixating on the number of calories tends to do more harm than good for the average person trying to reach their health and fitness goals. We believe that the simplest and most effective way to reach your goals is to focus on eating real (not processed) food that is prepared from clean and wholesome ingredients. Instead of focusing on the numbers, we want you to focus on how our food makes you look, feel and perform.

Are all of your meals gluten free?

Absolutely. Though not everyone has a gluten intolerance, research has shown that more and more people have gluten sensitivities (without even knowing it.). We also focus on using clean and wholesome ingredients rather than processed foods, which makes avoiding gluten far easier. In addition to a completely gluten-free menu, our menu is also dairy- and egg-free.

I live an active life. How do I know I’m getting enough protein?

Don’t worry, we also live active lives. But to be safe, we have partnered with a registered dietitian to ensure that not just each recipe is well-balanced and carefully composed, but also that each daily menu is thoughtfully structured to maximize nutrient density and diversity.

Will I lose weight on one of your meal programs?

Our programs are designed to provide you with all of the nutrients you need to live an active and healthy lifestyle. We carefully craft each recipe and structure each day’s worth of meals to ensure that you’re looking, feeling and performing your best – both mentally and physically. For some, this may mean shedding a few excess pounds. For others, this may mean providing an adequate balance of nutrient density and diversity to fuel your days. In any case, you can rest assured that by living the V+B life, you’ll be eating delicious, nutritious, well-balanced meals. But hey, if that’s not enough, you can always walk/run to our production facility to pick up your meals yourself (no charge).

Are all of your ingredients certified organic?

Depends. Do you work for the USDA? (Joke). We believe more in working with farmers and growers who utilize sustainable and organic farming practices than in working strictly with those who are certified organic. For many small, local farmers and growers, the official organic certification process is simply cost prohibitive and too time consuming a process to undertake. We partner only with those who share our high standards; those willing to work longer hours to protect the land and the plants and animals on which we all depend. Ultimately, our philosophy on this topic is simple – we strive to establish lasting relationships with good people who are doing great things.

SUSTAINABILITY + IMPACT

Small DMV Area Businesses We Love

And Why You Should Too

Did you know that when you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance? That’s right, and who doesn’t love bringing that kind of joy to their neighbors while also having a positive impact on their community? By investing in our local businesses, we not only become a better neighbor, but we also contribute to a better community, and ultimately, we're all better off.

The Importance of Supporting Local Businesses

Supporting local businesses is important for the growth of our community’s economy, creating jobs and stability and the opportunity for the greatest impact on community improvement. Shopping locally can also help to reduce our environmental impact, as local businesses often source their products and materials from nearby suppliers and the products don’t have too far to travel! Supporting small businesses encourages a sense of community and collaboration, as we come together to support our neighbors whose businesses make our communities unique and special.

Community Benefits

When you buy from a small business, you're not just supporting the business owner - you're also supporting the people and families that rely on those businesses for their livelihoods. This can have a positive ripple effect on the community, as small businesses create jobs and invest in the local economy. In addition, small businesses often support local charities and community initiatives, helping to make our neighborhoods better places to live.

Sustainability for a Better Future

Supporting local businesses is not only good for the economy, but it's also super important for a more sustainable future. By supporting local, we can help reduce our environmental footprint and promote more ethical and sustainable practices. Check out our recent blog post "The Road to Sustainability Starts at Local Vendors" to learn more about how supporting local businesses can help build a more sustainable future.

3 (of SO MANY) Local Businesses We Love

Compost Cab - This Washington, D.C. based business offers residential and commercial composting services, helping to reduce waste and promote sustainability in the community. For a very reasonable monthly cost, they “make it easy-peasy lemon squeezy to compost at home” — house, apartment, condo, coop, townhome! We love Compost Cab for its commitment to environmental conservation and its innovative approach to waste reducing waste.

The Potter's House - Situated in Washington, D.C.'s Adams Morgan neighborhood, The Potter's House is a community-oriented non-profit that offers coffee, food, and events. They also serve thousands of free meals each year to anyone who needs one. We applaud The Potter's House for their social activism and unwavering commitment to inclusivity.

Little Wild Things Farms – This cool company produces soil-grown microgreens and micro-herbs, hydroponically grown salad greens, and edible flowers on less than one-quarter acre in the heart of Washington, D.C. We love Little Wild Things Farms for its commitment to local and sustainable agriculture and its delicious, fresh produce.

Tips for Supporting Local Businesses

Purchase from stores and restaurants near your home.
Share your favorite local businesses on social media and write reviews to help promote them.
Attend local events, like farmers markets and pop0ups, to discover new businesses and connect with the community.
Coordinate with local businesses on your own events or projects and promote them.

Supporting small businesses is about more than just buying products or services - it's about investing in our communities and supporting the people behind these businesses. So, let's show our love for the small businesses that make the DMV unique and special. Whether it's using Compost Cab's services to reduce waste, enjoying a cup of coffee at The Potter's House, or buying fresh microgreens from Little Wild Things Farms, let's do our part to help small businesses thrive. After all, when we support a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance.

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