Core Functionality
- Ingredient Matcher: Users upload a list of available ingredients (or select from an inventory panel). The app suggests recipes that use those items with optional dietary filters.
- Seasonal & Local Feed: Pulls data from public APIs on local produce availability and seasonal trends, displaying what’s fresh in the area.
- Waste Tracker: Logs unused ingredients and alerts users when quantities are close to expiry, suggesting quick‑prep recipes or donation options.
Problem It Solves
Small cafés, food trucks, and catering businesses often struggle with unpredictable inventory and waste. They need a simple way to plan menus that use what they already have, capitalize on local seasonal produce for cost savings, and avoid costly spoilage.
Technical Requirements
- Frontend: React (or vanilla JS) with responsive design.
- Backend: Node.js + Express API; SQLite database for quick prototyping.
- APIs: USDA or local farmers market APIs for seasonal produce data; optional integration with a grocery inventory API.
Monetization Strategy
- Freemium Model: Basic ingredient matcher and waste tracker are free. Premium tier unlocks advanced analytics, custom recipe creation, and bulk data export.
- Affiliate Partnerships: Link to local suppliers; earn commissions on purchases made through the app.
- Sponsored Content: Local farmers can sponsor seasonal produce highlights.
Implementation Approach
- Week 1–2: Set up project repo, scaffold React frontend and Express backend, design simple UI mockups.
- Week 3: Implement ingredient upload/selection and basic recipe matching logic using a static recipe dataset.
- Week 4: Integrate seasonal produce API; display local availability feed.
- Week 5: Add waste tracking feature with simple CRUD operations.
- Week 6: Build premium features (analytics dashboard, export) and set up payment gateway.
- Week 7: Test on multiple devices, fix bugs, deploy to a cloud platform like Heroku or Vercel.
Potential Challenges
- Data Accuracy: Seasonal APIs may have limited coverage. Solution: Allow users to manually add local produce data and sync periodically.
- User Adoption: Small owners may not want to learn new tools. Solution: Keep the UI minimal, provide short onboarding tutorials, and offer email support.
Future Expansion
- AI‑powered recipe generation based on ingredient combinations.
- Integration with POS systems for automated inventory syncing.
- Mobile app version for on‑the‑go menu planning.
- Community marketplace where businesses can trade surplus ingredients.