FAQ

How long will my food stay fresh?

For optimal freshness, we suggest freezing any meals that will not be consumed within 5 days of delivery. Most of our meals are freezer friendly with the exception of fresh salads.



Who would benefit from becoming a Pioneer's Plate customer?

Everyone! You might be interested in trying us out if: -You're curious about a plant based diet but don't know where to start. -You have nutritional goals to crush but not enough time in the kitchen. -You love eating but hate cooking. You get the picture! Our meals are fully prepared, and ready to heat and eat, no pots and pans required. Let us take the stress and mess out of dinner!



Do I have to join Zero Waste?

At this stage in time we DO NOT require our customers to join the zero waste program. We realize that not everyone wants to join a subscription plan and may prefer to order a few meals here and there. For your convenience, we also offer a standard store with access to our full menu where you can order all of the same meals. Sustainability is important to us, which is why we have sourced Canadian made, BPA-free plastic containers that are RE-USABLE & RECYCLABLE as well as microwave and dishwasher safe. Please feel free to return them in your bin or keep for personal use.



Is there a delivery charge and what areas do you cover?

We charge a flat rate of $5 per home delivery (3 item minimum/ order) within a 15 km radius of Vernon city centre. For Lake Country we charge $7.50 if you are within 3 km of the highway (Carr's Landing not included). For Kelowna we charge $10 for home delivery within 15 km radius of Kelowna city centre. We also offer limited delivery to West Kelowna *if you are within 10 km of the from the bridge. If you are outside of our delivery zone, we offer FREE pickup in Vernon and Kelowna at our partner stores.



Can I pick up?

Of course! We have FREE pickup spotes at our partner stores in Vernon and Kelowna: Vernon - Anna's Vitamins Plus store @ 3803 27th Street Kelowna - Chickpeace Zero Waste Refillery @ 1851 Kirschner Rd #103 We are always working on setting up free drop off locations throughout the Okanagan. Join our mailing list to stay in the loop.



What is the zero waste starter pack?

All new zero waste subscribers are required to pay a one time $75 deposit on a starter pack. This deposit is fully refundable if you return your cooler, ice packs and glassware 'undamaged' and in the same condition within 1 week of cancelling your subscription. Please contact us to make arrangements. If you do not return the containers within the 1 week time frame, your refundable deposit will be null and void. You will also be charged the remaining balance for the glass containers to your card on file, if it exceeds your $75 deposit. If during your active subscription you accidentally break a food container, please let us know and we will charge our cost for the container (adult size $7, child size $5, family size $15).



Why is there a zero waste handling fee?

The $5 weekly handling fee per household helps toward the extra hours we put into maintaning, inspecting, sanitising and storing these containers each week. As a fully licensed business, we follow strict guideliness to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our valued customers.



What form of payments do you accept?

We currently accept all major credit cards, debit and e-transfer. Payment must be made prior to delivery to secure your order.



Are you a licensed business and where do you prepare the food?

Yes, Pioneer's Plate is fully licensed and insured! We currently lease a commercial kitchen in Vernon and are up to date on all health department permits and inspections with the city.



Are your meals allergy friendly?

Our meals are 100% plant based and most are made without gluten. While we take extreme precautions to keep allergens separate, please be advised that the possibility of cross contact may be present as we use a wide range of ingredients in the kitchen. Additionally, please be aware that many beans and legumes are processed in facilities that also process grains and may not be certified gluten free. Please send us a message to inform us of any allergies or other dietary requirements.



What are the benefits to becoming a subscriber?

Do you love the convenience of a meal service but NOT all the packaging? In addition to eliminating waste with our (freezer/oven/microwave/dishwasher safe) glass containers, you'll also receive special subscription pricing, which helps to cover the zero waste handling fee and more - the more you buy the more you save! Thank you for helping us make a difference one meal at a time!



Do you offer frozen meals?

Yes! You can find the 'Freezer Stock' selection in our main store. These meals are frozen in microwave safe containers that can easily be warmed up for a quick and nutritious dinner when time is tight. They also make a great gift!



Can I choose my meals on the subscription plan?

Absolutely! Please fill out the meal selection form before 9 pm on Saturday night if you wish to choose your meals. Otherwise, we will select them for you based upon the information in your new subscriber form.



Are all of your ingredients certified organic?

Mostly. We partner with a carefully selected network of local farmers who provide both certified organic and naturally grown produce. The rest of our ingredients are a combination of organic, non GMO, fair trade and locally sourced whole foods.