Last updated: 2 August 2026
Barecode ("we", "the app") is a product scanning app. This policy explains what data the app handles and why. Barecode has no user accounts and does not ask for your name, email, or any personal identifier.
| Data | Why | Where it goes |
|---|---|---|
| Barcodes you scan | To look up product information | Open Food Facts / Open Beauty Facts / Open Products Facts, and our product database |
| Photos you take or upload | To identify a product when a barcode isn't recognised | Sent to Anthropic's Claude API for identification; stored on your device |
| Scan events (product, time) | To power "Trending" and "Recent scans" | Our Firebase database, with a random device ID only |
| Product corrections you submit | To improve the shared database | Our Firebase database |
| Allergen preferences, settings, scan history | App functionality | Stored only on your device |
| Purchase status | To unlock Barecode Plus | Apple and RevenueCat |
The camera is used solely to read barcodes and, when you choose, to photograph a product for identification. Photo library access happens only when you explicitly pick an image. Camera frames are processed on your device and are not recorded or transmitted; only photos you deliberately capture or select are sent for identification.
The app generates a random identifier stored on your device to associate contributions and prevent abuse. It is not linked to you, your Apple ID, or any advertising identifier, and is deleted when you delete the app.
Data on your device (history, settings, photos) is removed when you delete the app. Product records and anonymous scan events contributed to the shared database are retained to keep the catalogue useful for other users. To request removal of contributions associated with your device identifier, email us and include the device identifier shown in the app's Settings.
Barecode is not directed at children under 13 and does not knowingly collect data from them.
Depending on your region (including the EEA/UK under GDPR and California under CCPA), you may have rights to access, correct, or delete personal data. Because we do not collect personal identifiers, most requests can be satisfied by deleting the app. For anything else, contact us.
Scores and findings are informational and derived from public data sources and AI estimates. They may be incomplete or inaccurate and are not medical, dietary, or safety advice. Always read the product label, particularly if you have allergies or a medical condition.
We'll update this page and revise the date above if this policy changes.