This article explains what AlignEat does and what to expect when you scan a menu.
The idea in one sentence
AlignEat lets you scan a restaurant menu by photo, QR code, or link, and tells you which dishes fit your dietary restrictions so you can order with more confidence.
How it works
- You set up a dietary profile once. It captures your allergies, intolerances, diets, and other preferences.
- At a restaurant, you scan the menu. AlignEat reads the menu and checks each dish against your profile.
- Results appear for every dish on the menu.
The four result types
Every dish gets one of four labels:
- Compatible. The dish looks suitable for your profile based on what AlignEat could read.
- Can be adapted. The dish has something that may conflict, but a modification (such as leaving out an ingredient) could make it work.
- Could not confirm. AlignEat did not have enough information to make a call. Treat these with caution.
- Avoid. The dish contains something that conflicts with your profile.
Good to know
- AlignEat is a helpful tool, not a guarantee. Menus change, descriptions can be incomplete, and preparation methods vary.
- Always confirm your allergies and restrictions directly with restaurant staff before you order and eat. This is especially important for serious allergies.
- The more complete your dietary profile, the more useful your scan results will be.
Related: Set up your dietary profile, A quick tour of the app