Modern Meals eyeing opening before end of the year

At a young age, Ashley Munnerlyn realized the importance of food and how it plays a part in energy levels and mood. Since then, her passion hasn’t stopped. She started a business this year out of her kitchen that focuses on healthier meal options and food consultation. Three weeks in, she had more than 25 clients.

As a result of the popularity, Munnerlyn and business partner Marcy David plan to open Modern Meals by the end of the year at 2921 Government St. The 2,000-square-foot location will feature a big kitchen, with enough space for Munnerlyn to create breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack options. The items will have nutritional values and ingredients listed on the packaging, as well as the date.

“We’re trying to hit every type of customer,” Munnerlyn says. “We’ll have gluten-free items, diabetes-friendly and low-carb options, as well as vegetarian and vegan dishes, but will bring up the flavor to Louisiana standards.”

In addition to the storefront, customers can pick up meals and snacks at four pick-up locations through the Baton Rouge area, including the two Spectrum gyms on Perkins Road and the two Nutrishop locations. In the future, Munnerlyn hopes to add new pick-up locations every two months.

The items range in price from $4 to $15, and feature proteins such as chicken, fish and grass-fed beef. Other ingredients include cage-free eggs and gluten-free pastas and bread. If customers bring back containers, they will get credits for recycling, and meals that aren’t sold are donated to charity before their expiration date.

Modern Meals will also set up meal plans for those interested. Customers can fill out a questionnaire, and the plans will vary depending on body type.

“Once we know your body type and you fill out the questionnaire, that will allow us to tell you what you need to eat most,” she says. “We’ll also want to know what goals you have, too.”

For more information on Modern Meals, click here.