FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!

We get asked heaps of questions, so here are some of the answers to the most common ones:

  • Can I put hot water into my compostable bag?

No sorry, the bag is designed to break down with water so that it can compost. And whilst the packaging is plant-based we don’t think the soggy mess you will end up with will be that tasty.

  • Can I get my compostable bags wet?

Again, no sorry, water will make them soggy and break down. Always keep your meals somewhere dry in your pack, especially if it looks like it might be raining for your trip.

  • What is the shelf life of your products?

We have a ‘best before’ date of 1 year from production.

  • Why do your products only have a 1-year shelf life?

At Local Dehy we pride ourselves on flavour above anything else. So whilst we have done tests on the safety of our food at 3 years and found it to be well within food safety standards. However, we decided that the flavour had dulled to a level that we weren’t happy with. We have decided that flavour should be the determining factor when applying a ‘best before’ date, and not some science numbers.

  • Is your food gluten-free?

As we currently do not have the facilities to test our food for gluten we are not allowed to make this claim. However, feel free to check the ingredients list of our meals. Our Spaghetti Bolognese and the Leek and Lentil Stew both have gluten-containing products, as do all the porridges.  This is listed as an allergen on the packaging. Many of our meals do not have gluten products in them, however, by law, we are not able to guarantee that no cross-contamination is happening without testing.

  • How long is non-rural delivery?

For orders in the South Island 2-4 days, and North Island 3-5 working days (not including weekends or public holidays). As we are all aware, Covid-19 is having an impact on all aspects of life and deliveries may be delayed, this might add several days.

  • How long is rural delivery?

As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to add 2 days to the non-rural times.

  • Why does rural delivery cost so much more?

We only pass on exactly what our courier company charges us for rural delivery, which is an extra $9. We live rurally too so understand your frustration at this cost. Whilst we are happy to cover the cost of the standard shipping of $8 on orders over &150, we cannot as a small company cover the entire $17 it costs us to post to a rural address.

  • Do you deliver to PO Box addresses?

Sorry, no, our courier won’t accept PO Box addresses.

  • Can you deliver to Waiheke, Chatham Island or Great Barrier Island?

Yes, however, these services will incur a significant extra charge, please contact us for rates.

  • What if I don’t have a home compost bin?

There are a few solutions. Maybe you could ask a friend or work colleague to compost it for you if they have a home compost.  Commercial composting sites are hard to access for household compost, however, Econic is happy for you to send the packaging back to them and they will compost it for you. Here’s the link