re: How do I tell them its not helpful?

Quoting Nietzsche:" Units? Do you mean credits? I am confused."

Same thing. Financial aid calls them units.

Quoting Nietzsche:" Units? Do you mean credits? I am confused."

yes.

Quoting pilot Jess:" Tell them you are so grateful for their help, but you don't want their efforts to be wasted since you ... [snip!] ... instead of doing something so bold as asking for food store gift cards, tell them what would not go to waste in your house."

I could make a list, but we have such a restrictive diet that its tough, plus that feels rude to me too- it shouldn't be their job to shop for us.
they have been giving us money, so its not a stretch to ask for a card if they specifically want to give us food, I guess.
i just feel smurffy and ashamed about the whole thing. they are in a good place financially, but i still hate it.

Quoting SummerMama333:" I could make a list, but we have such a restrictive diet that its tough, plus that feels rude to me ... [snip!] ... food, I guess. i just feel smurffy and ashamed about the whole thing. they are in a good place financially, but i still hate it."

I would have your husband do it. It is his parents afterall.

Quoting Nietzsche:" I would have your husband do it. It is his parents afterall."

I've asked him to talk to them, but he has yet to  

Quoting SummerMama333:" I've asked him to talk to them, but he has yet to  "

Well, for the veggies can you make stuff and freeze it so it doesn't go to waste? As for the junk can you send it to work with your dh?

As for talking to them, unless you are super close to them, then I would have DH handle it.

I have been in your shoes and now I am the helpful parent. Have your partner tell his parents that they are wasting their money and time, be gentle but honest. As far as the extra food that you do not use goes, find a family that will use it and give it to them, I am sure there is one somewhere, as there are so many these days. I know how you feel but remember, honesty really IS the best policy, and in the end, everyone will be better off for you speaking up. I know I would much rather know that my money is being spent on what your family will eat and not what is being thrown out. Trust me, they love you and will understand. 

Quoting SummerMama333:" I'm so frustrated. We are going through a really rough time financially. My husband lost his financial ... [snip!] ... sense for them to do our shopping for us. I love them so much, and appreciate all of their help. Not sure what to do here."

You could be honest, or you could make an arrangement with a friend. Maybe they could pay you money for the food that his parents are buying you? Then you would have some extra cash, and the food wouldnt get wasted.

Just be honest.

They think they are doing you a great favor and are not aware of the fact that this is not what you eat. I bet you, when they know, they'll take you shopping or offer you to make a list.

Just say how grateful you are for their help but you don't want them to waste their money on stuff that is not eaten, because it is too much or the wrong kind. I am pretty sure they are thankful for that information, since no one likes throwing money away. Tell them why you eat and not eat certain things, that maybe helps them understand why you are so "strict" about the food you eat. Your husband should do the talk ;)