ScanCal methodology
What happens between the photo and the estimate.
ScanCal turns visual clues and the context you provide into an editable nutrition proposal. This process helps you log a meal, but it cannot observe the full recipe or physically measure its components.
The estimate starts with the available information.
The more useful context the analysis receives, the less it needs to rely on visual assumptions.
Image
What appears in the photo
Shape, colour, texture, presentation, relative size and the relationship between visible elements.
Context
What you can add
Meal name, preparation, hidden ingredients, known quantities and any detail that is not obvious.
Review
What you confirm
The proposed foods, approximate portions and the breakdown you ultimately choose to save.
Process
From visual clues to your diary.
The analysis is organised into understandable stages. Each can introduce uncertainty, which is why the result remains editable.
- 01
Scene interpretation
The system separates the plate, containers and food components it can distinguish in the image.
- 02
Food proposal
It relates visual signals to possible foods or preparations and builds an initial breakdown.
- 03
Portion estimation
It approximates quantities using visible scale and composition. Without a physical reference, this stage is not the same as weighing the food.
- 04
Nutrition calculation
It combines the proposed foods and amounts to estimate calories, protein, carbohydrates and fat.
- 05
Review and save
It shows you the proposal so you can correct ingredients or quantities and save only the result you have checked.
Uncertainty
Why two photos can produce different results.
The estimate depends on both the real recipe and the clues the image makes observable.
| Factor | What changes |
|---|---|
| Framing and light | An item outside the image, a shadow or a reflection can hide food and change how volume is interpreted. |
| Perspective and container | The camera can make a portion appear larger or smaller, and a deep bowl does not reveal all its contents. |
| Oils, sauces and dressings | Their presence may be visible, but their quantity and recipe can rarely be inferred reliably from a photo. |
| Hidden ingredients | Fillings, layers, broths, added sugar and blended components do not always leave clear visual signals. |
| Preparation | Two similar-looking meals may use different amounts, brands and cooking methods. |
An estimate is not a measurement.
ScanCal does not weigh food, analyse its chemical composition or automatically know the exact recipe. The result is an approximation based on the available information. For packaged products, manufacturer labelling usually provides more specific data; for clinical needs, use suitable sources and professionals.
How to stay in control of the log.
- 01Check that every important component appears in the breakdown.
- 02Correct the portion when you know its real weight or quantity.
- 03Add oils, sauces, drinks and sides that are not visible.
- 04Do not save the analysis until it reasonably represents your meal.
- 05Review any data that affects a medical need with particular care.
Scope and responsible use
ScanCal provides general nutrition information to help you organise your diary. It does not diagnose, treat or prevent disease, and its results are not medical advice. Decisions related to a health condition should be supported by a healthcare professional.
The methodology also includes how your data is handled.
You can read what information ScanCal processes, why it is used and which measures are described to protect it.
Practical guide
Prepare a useful photo and review the result step by step.
The scanner guide brings together image tips, the full flow and the limits worth checking for every meal.
Back to ScanCal