Meal subscription services have made it easier than ever to get dinner on the table. With fresh ingredients and recipes delivered to your door, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular.
As of August 1, 2026, new rules apply to subscription contracts in BC, including meal kit services. Before you sign up, it’s worth understanding how these subscriptions work and the rights you have. Here are some common myths and the facts behind them to feed your consumer confidence.
Meal kits and more: Myths, facts and BC’s new subscription rules
Myth: “I don’t need to read the terms.”
Fact: The details matter.
As of August 1, 2026, subscription contracts for continuing goods or services where the total price is $50 or more must clearly provide you with important information before you subscribe, including details about pricing, renewals and cancellation. The business must also provide you with a copy of your contract.
Taking a few minutes to review this information can help you avoid surprises later.
Myth: “I’m only paying for one box.”
Fact: Many meal kit services are subscription contracts. Unless you cancel or pause your subscription, you may continue receiving deliveries and be charged automatically based on the schedule you agreed to.
Before signing up, check how often deliveries are sent and when you’ll be billed. The business must provide this information to you upfront and in the contract.
Myth: “The discounted price is what I’ll always pay.”
Fact: Introductory offers are often temporary.
Before signing up, check what your subscription will cost after the promotion ends and when the regular price takes effect. The business must share details about promotional offers upfront and in the contract.
Myth: “Automatic renewal means I’m stuck.”
Fact: That’s not always true. Depending on the length of your renewal term, you may be able to cancel before or after your subscription is renewed. For longer renewal terms (more than 60 days), businesses must also send you advance notice before the renewal date with information about your cancellation rights.
Read more about automatic renewals and your subscription rights.
Myth: “I’ll remember everything later.”
Fact: Save your records.
By law, the business must give you a copy of your contract within 15 days. Keeping these documents on hand can make resolving an issue much easier if questions come up.
The takeaway
Meal subscription services can be a great way to simplify mealtime, and it’s worth taking a few minutes to understand how the subscription works before signing up. BC’s new subscription contract rules also apply to streaming services, news or digital subscriptions, subscription boxes and more.
Want to learn more about BC’s new subscription contract rules? Visit our subscription contracts page.
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About Consumer Protection BC
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