Frequently Asked Questions

What is FoodScreener?

FoodScreener is a mobile app that helps you make informed food choices by scanning product barcodes and checking them against your dietary preferences and restrictions.

How does it work?

Simply point your camera at a product barcode, and the app will retrieve nutritional information and ingredients from our database, then compare them against your personal preferences.

What dietary preferences are supported?

We support over 20 dietary preferences including:

  • Vegan and Vegetarian
  • Gluten-free
  • Keto and Low-carb
  • Paleo
  • Dairy-free
  • Nut allergies
  • Religious dietary laws (Halal, Kosher)
  • And many more...

Is the app free?

You can use the app free for 20 scans before purchasing, and there is no subscription fee.

Where does the product data come from?

We use the Open Food Facts database, a collaborative, free and open database of food products from around the world. There are commercial databases, but we would have to have a subscription charge to cover their fees.

Can I contribute product information?

Not yet. OFF has reasonable concerns about contributions from apps until they are in widespread use. We may add database contributions later.

Does the app work offline?

On first startup, the app will ask to download a compressed database for use offline, which is very useful in stores with poor data service or spotty wifi. The download and unpacking process takes several minutes and is best done when your phone has good wifi service. So the answer is, yes, you can use it offline once you have downloaded the database, but it works best with good wifi or cell data service.

Is my data private?

Absolutely. Your dietary preferences and scan history are stored only on your device. We don’t collect or sell personal data. We do store anonymized statistical data for quality control and abuse detection purposes.

Which countries does it work in?

FoodScreener works worldwide, though product availability in the database may vary by region.

How accurate is the information?

We strive for accuracy by using Open Food Facts’ verified data, but always recommend checking product labels for the most current information. Manufacturers may change ingredients but keep the same barcode, so the OFF data is sometimes out of date or inputted with errors.