FarmboxRx: how to get free fruits and vegetables delivered with your health plan

FarmboxRx is a U.S. company that delivers boxes of fresh fruits and vegetables to people's homes as a benefit of certain health plans. For members who qualify, the box comes at no cost, because the health plan pays for it. It is not open to everyone, though: it depends on whether your Medicaid plan, Medicare Advantage plan or another benefit includes this option.

This guide explains how FarmboxRx works, what comes in the box, who can get it for free, what changed after the company was acquired and how to find out whether your plan offers it.

What is FarmboxRx?

FarmboxRx started as the healthcare arm of Farmbox Direct. It partners with insurers and health plans as part of the "food as medicine" approach: the idea that better nutrition helps prevent and manage conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure. That is why some boxes are tailored to specific health needs.

In June 2025, FarmboxRx was acquired by Pyx Health, a health technology company focused on social needs such as loneliness and food insecurity. Since then, the FarmboxRx website redirects to Pyx Health, but the food benefit continues to reach members through participating health plans.

What comes in the box?

• fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables;
• simple recipes approved by registered dietitians;
• in some plans, cooking kits or pantry items;
• box options for certain diets or health conditions;
• educational materials on eating healthy on a budget.

Boxes ship in refrigerated packaging to keep produce fresh, and tracking details are usually sent by email.

Who can get it for free?

The box may be available through:

• Medicaid: in some plans run by participating insurers.
• Medicare Advantage: as a supplemental benefit in certain plans, sometimes only for members with chronic conditions.
• OTC card: some plans let you use your over-the-counter allowance to order the box.
• Healthy Food Card: in plans that offer this benefit.

Eligibility, delivery frequency and box size depend on each plan. For example, some plans have offered up to two boxes a month to qualifying members. If you pay with an OTC allowance and your order costs more than your balance, the plan may ask you to pay the difference another way; in that case the box is no longer fully free.

Why health plans pay for food

Since 2020, Medicare Advantage plans have been allowed to offer supplemental benefits tied to social needs, such as food for members with chronic illnesses. Many state Medicaid programs have also added nutrition programs. For plans, better nutrition can mean fewer complications and hospital visits; for members, it means fresh food at no extra cost.

How to make the most of your box

If your plan includes the benefit, a few habits help the food go further and keep waste down:

• Store everything right away: leafy greens and soft fruit last longer in the refrigerator.
• Use delicate items first: berries, lettuce and bananas ripen fast; potatoes, apples and carrots keep longer.
• Follow the included recipes: they are designed around what comes in the box.
• Freeze extras: many fruits and vegetables can be chopped and frozen for smoothies or stews.

If you have a condition such as diabetes or high blood pressure, ask your doctor or dietitian how to fit the box into your meal plan.

What you should know

Watch out for scams

• no one should charge you to "release" a free box;
• do not share your Medicare, Medicaid or Social Security number with strangers who call or message you;
• always verify using the phone number on your health plan card.

Frequently asked questions

Is FarmboxRx really free?

For members whose health plan includes the benefit, yes: the plan pays for the box and shipping. If you use an OTC allowance, it is free as long as your order stays within your balance.

How often does the box arrive?

It depends on the plan. Some offer weekly or monthly deliveries, while others offer it only for a limited period.

Can I choose what goes in my box?

Usually the contents are set by season and by what your plan covers. Some plans offer box options for certain diets or health conditions, so ask your plan which choices you have before ordering.

Is FarmboxRx still running after the Pyx Health acquisition?

Yes, the produce box service continues through participating health plans. The safest step is to confirm with your plan that the benefit is still active for you this year.

What if I do not qualify?

You can look into other food benefits, such as SNAP, or compare Medicare plans during the enrollment period to find one with food benefits.

This article is for information only and is not affiliated with FarmboxRx, Pyx Health or any health plan. Availability depends on each plan.