New Bedford’s Healthy Bites Meal Prep Is Closing

A meal prep business in New Bedford is the latest victim of COVID-19 and inflation.

Since 2020, Healthy Bites Meal Prep on Bellville Avenue has been fighting to stay above water Owners Crystal and Jeffrey Lister have battled inflation and strict regulations. Even though their loyal customers have helped along the way, it wasn't enough to keep up with the staggering price hikes of food.

The family has decided the final day of business will be Dec. 22, 2023.

Get our free mobile app

The unfortunate news came to light on social media via the following message:

Dear Valued Customers & Friends,

We wanted to start by saying thank you for the support and loyalty you have shown us for the past 8 years. It has been an honor to be your go-to for everything healthy and delicious. With that being said, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors by the end of the year. Our last day will be December 22nd, 2023. Since Covid, it has been such a struggle for the restaurant industry, and unfortunately, it has only gotten worse with inflation. We have learned so much from every one of you and value all the lessons we will take away. Again, we would like to say thank you to everyone who has ever passed through our doors. It has truly been the best journey, and we look forward to our future endeavors. -Crystal & Jeff

I've been a Healthy Bites customer since 2019 and can say with confidence that Crystal's cooking was not only delicious but effective. I was at the top of my game while eating her prepped meals and I know I'm not the only one.

Healthy Bites was not only a small business, but a giving member of the community. The Listers donated without hesitation to those in need, providing a healthy alternative to kid's lunches and supporting local athletes. Take champion boxer Wilson "Ill Will" Mascarenhas for example. He's just one of many the Listers have helped along their journey to success.

"It's been a struggle since Covid and sadly with inflation, it's only gotten worse," Crystal told me when I reached out. "I'm tired, but we're going to be OK."

Once the store closes, Crystal said she plans to focus on her strength and conditioning training and may open her own fitness business. For the next couple of weeks, business hours will be Monday and Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

"This is not the end of us, just a chapter closing," Crystal said. "Our story isn't done yet."