How we test

A 90-day protocol with dietitian-verified portions, dual-reviewer scoring, and editorial oversight.

1. Reference meals

Every app logs the same 60 reference meals. Each meal is weighed on a calibrated scale and analyzed against USDA and regional food databases to produce a reference value for calories and macros.

2. Logging trials

Each app receives identical input — a photo, a text description, and a barcode where applicable. We record the estimated calories and macros, time to log, and any friction points.

3. Scoring

Two reviewers score each app independently across six categories: Accuracy, AI Features, Speed, Nutrients, Database, and Ease of Use. Scores are reconciled by an editor before publication.

4. Adherence check

A panel of users logs daily for eight weeks. We measure retention, average daily log count, and self-reported satisfaction at weeks 2, 4, and 8.

Editorial independence

We accept no payment for placement. Affiliate links, where present, are clearly disclosed and do not influence rankings.