This article explores the consumer-driven digital transformation of foodservice, including off-premise delivery, ghost kitchens, and mail-order foods. These new food models are characterized by potentially higher food safety risks and low regulation, raising questions about how to move forward safely. 

Meal kits use a direct-to-consumer model of delivering perishable, pre-measured ingredients for pre-selected recipes that are then used to prepare and cook meals at home. Meal kits are likely to contain a variety of foods that may grow or be contaminated by pathogenic bacteria. Meal kit manufacturers also often repackage ingredients into plain or branded packaging, which can result in the consumption of unexpected ingredients or allergens.

Since e-commerce food businesses are not regulated as traditional food manufacturers based on the current Code of Federal Regulations, these models are regulated under the "honor system." The way in which consumers are buying food has changed dramatically, and so must the regulations to ensure public health and safety associated with these foods. 

Direct-to-consumer food businesses occupy a gray regulatory airspace, placing consumers’ health at risk.

To improve food safety and reduce the risk of foodborne illness related to meal kits, it is important to evaluate operations with a farm-to-fork lens, ensuring not just the safety of the meal kit itself but also promoting proper handling and preparation by the customer.