Differences between Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers
Contents
Comparison Article
Jenny Craig and Weight Watchers, rebranded as WW, are commercial weight management programs that take different approaches to diet and lifestyle changes.[1] Jenny Craig's business model is centered on providing pre-packaged, portion-controlled meals directly to customers.[2][3] In contrast, WW uses a points-based system to guide members in making their own food choices, emphasizing nutrition education and flexible eating.[4][1]
Following financial difficulties and the closure of its physical locations in 2023, Jenny Craig was acquired and relaunched as an online-only service.[5] WW offers both digital-only plans and plans that include access to in-person or virtual workshops.
Comparison Table
| Category | Jenny Craig | Weight Watchers (WW) |
|---|---|---|
| Core Method | Provides pre-packaged, calorie-controlled meals and snacks for a structured eating plan.[3] | Members track food intake using a proprietary Points system, which assigns values to foods based on their nutritional content. |
| Food | Most food is purchased directly from the company and delivered to the member's home. Members supplement meals with their own fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy. | Members buy and prepare their own food. No foods are forbidden, but the Points system encourages choosing items lower in sugar and saturated fat, and higher in protein and fiber.[4] |
| Support Structure | One-on-one coaching is available virtually. The program was historically known for its in-person centers, but shifted to an e-commerce model in 2023. | Support is offered through a mobile app, an online community, and optional virtual or in-person group workshops led by coaches. |
| Cost Structure | Members pay for meal plans, which can range from approximately $140 to $170 per week. This cost covers most of the food. Membership and shipping fees may also apply. | Members pay a monthly subscription fee, which varies depending on the level of support (e.g., digital-only vs. workshop access). This fee does not include the cost of food. |
| Flexibility | The program is highly structured, removing the need for meal planning and portion control.[2] | Offers significant flexibility, as members can eat any food as long as it fits within their daily and weekly Points budget.[4][2] |
Jenny Craig Program Details
The Jenny Craig program is designed around the principle of simplifying weight loss by providing prepared meals.[2] Customers choose from various meal plans, and the pre-portioned foods are delivered to their homes. Daily calorie intake typically ranges from 1,200 to 1,700 calories. The program also includes access to a personal consultant for guidance and support. In 2023, the company declared bankruptcy, closed its physical centers, and was later purchased by Wellful, relaunching as a direct-to-consumer e-commerce brand.
Weight Watchers (WW) Program Details
WW's approach is based on educating members to make healthier eating choices independently. The core of the program is the Points system, which assigns a simple numerical value to foods and beverages based on nutritional factors like calories, protein, fiber, and sugar content. Each member receives a personalized daily and weekly Points budget. The program provides tools such as a mobile app for tracking food and activity, recipes, and a community network. Members can choose a digital-only membership or a plan that includes unlimited access to workshops, which are group meetings led by a WW Coach.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "medicalnewstoday.com". Retrieved February 06, 2026.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 "ourfathersandsons.ca". Retrieved February 06, 2026.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "oreateai.com". Retrieved February 06, 2026.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "verywellfit.com". Retrieved February 06, 2026.
- ↑ "everydayhealth.com". Retrieved February 06, 2026.
