Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about FoodGrader
Does FoodGrader work for the low-FODMAP diet?
Yes. Toggle FODMAP flagging in your profile and FoodGrader will automatically flag high-FODMAP ingredients like garlic, onion, wheat, lactose, inulin (chicory root fiber), and excess fructose. Your personalized grade factors in these triggers so you can make quick, confident decisions in the store.
How does FODMAP scanning compare to the Monash app?
The Monash University FODMAP app is the gold standard for FODMAP reference data — and we recommend using it alongside FoodGrader. The difference: Monash is a reference database where you look up individual foods. FoodGrader is a barcode and photo scanner that grades packaged products against YOUR specific profile. Scan a product, see the grade, see which FODMAP ingredients are flagged — all in seconds, without manual cross-referencing.
Is FoodGrader a medical device?
No. FoodGrader provides best-effort ingredient flagging and personalized scoring to help with grocery decisions, but it is not a medical device and should not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm with your healthcare provider, especially during the elimination and reintroduction phases of the low-FODMAP diet.
How accurate is FoodGrader?
FoodGrader combines data from trusted sources — USDA FoodData Central (1.97M products) and Open Food Facts (3.65M products) — with AI analysis. For barcode scans, the data comes from verified databases. For Quick Grade (photo scans), the AI identifies the product and estimates its grade — we clearly label these as estimates and flag when confidence is lower. No system is perfect, but we prioritize transparency: you always see the data source and reasoning behind every score.
What is Quick Grade?
Quick Grade is FoodGrader's camera-first scanning feature. Snap a photo of any product — the front of the package, the nutrition label, or even a menu item — and get an AI-powered grade in seconds. No barcode required. You can also scan barcodes for verified data from our database of 5.6 million products. Quick Grade is especially useful for fresh produce, deli items, and international products that aren't in barcode databases.
Which diets and restrictions are supported?
FoodGrader supports virtually any diet or dietary restriction, including: • FODMAP / IBS management • Food allergies: nut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, egg-free, and more • Common diets: vegan, vegetarian, keto, paleo, Mediterranean, low-carb • Medical needs: diabetes-friendly, low-sodium, renal diet • Custom requirements: describe any specific need in natural language
Do I need an account?
No. FoodGrader works with completely anonymous profiles. No email, no sign-up, no personal information required. Your dietary profiles are stored both locally on your device and securely on our servers for sync — but we cannot identify who you are.
How much does it cost?
FoodGrader is free with generous limits: • Unlimited barcode scans • Up to 3 dietary profiles • 30 Quick Grade (photo) scans FoodGrader+ unlocks everything: • $0.99/month or $6.99/year • Unlimited profiles • Unlimited Quick Grade scans • Premium comparison feature • Extended history
Can I use it for my whole family?
Absolutely. Create separate profiles for each family member with their specific dietary needs — FODMAP for you, nut-free for your child, low-sodium for a parent. The free version supports up to 3 profiles, while FoodGrader+ allows unlimited profiles. Switch between profiles instantly while shopping.
Does it work offline?
Yes. FoodGrader caches your recent scans and favorite products for offline access. You can view previously scanned items and their scores without an internet connection. New scans require internet to fetch product data and generate grades.
How does the personalized scoring work?
When you create a profile, you describe your dietary needs in plain language (e.g., "IBS, avoiding garlic and onion, limiting fructose") or use the quick-pick toggles for common allergens and FODMAP. FoodGrader's AI builds a scoring model specifically for you. Every product is then evaluated against YOUR triggers and goals — not generic health standards. The same product can get an A for one profile and a D for another.
What if a product isn't in the database?
Use Quick Grade — snap a photo of the product and FoodGrader's AI will identify it and provide a personalized grade. These photo-based grades are clearly labeled as estimates to distinguish them from verified barcode data. Free users get 30 Quick Grade scans, while FoodGrader+ users get unlimited.
How do you protect my privacy?
Privacy is fundamental to FoodGrader: • No account or email required • Anonymous profiles only • No ads or tracking • No selling of data • Dietary information is stored securely and anonymously • We cannot identify who you are
What's the comparison feature?
The comparison feature (FoodGrader+ only) has two modes: • Product Comparison: Compare up to 3 products side-by-side for a specific profile • Profile Comparison: See how 1 product scores across 3 different family profiles Perfect for families — instantly see if that cereal works for your FODMAP-sensitive partner but not for your nut-allergic child. The AI performs true relative analysis and can optimize for specific goals like "most filling" or "lowest FODMAP risk".
How can I contact support?
For support, feedback, or questions, email us at support@foodgrader.org. We read every message and typically respond within 24-48 hours.