Why not all products are found using a barcode scanner - and where our data comes from
Matthias Schmid
July 19, 2021
In this article, we give you a look behind the scenes at how we process barcodes and where our product data comes from.
How does a barcode work?
A barcode, also known as a stripe code, is a machine-readable identification number. It makes products identifiable for commercial use and retail - ideally unique on a global scale.
The first barcode (Universal Product Code, abbreviated UPC) was introduced in 1973 in the USA. The commonly used UPC-A in the USA consists of 12 digits. It quickly becomes apparent that, aside from the country and the manufacturing company, not much information is contained within those 12 digits.
An EAN13 barcode - the machine-readable part on top, below the encoded 13-digit identification number. No more information is contained directly in the barcode. By VaGla - own work created in Inkscape based on the graphics by Grzexs, CC BY-SA 3.0
In Europe, three years later in 1976, the European Article Number (abbreviated EAN) was introduced. It is 13 digits long and compatible with the UPC system.
Identification scheme since 2015
Since 2015, the identification numbers used worldwide in commerce have been renamed to Global Trade Item Number (GTIN). It is 8, 12, 13, or 14 digits long and always contains a check digit to detect errors during machine reading.
How does one access the product data?
GS1 Germany GmbH based in Cologne is the only official provider of EAN8/EAN13 codes in Germany. Anyone who wants to sell a product with a barcode must purchase a unique barcode from there.
Up to 30 barcodes can be retrieved for free per day from there - however, without all the relevant sizes that are of interest for the storage of food. For example, the product name, the package size, and the nutritional values are missing.
As a test, I used the official barcode search of GS1 Germany called Gepir to look up a randomly selected item: A pack of Haribo from an Edeka in Munich. The barcode 8426617106201 immediately reveals the country that issued the barcode: The two digits on the left stand for Spain (84).
The search in Gepir yields the following result: Company name "HARIBO ESPAÑA S.A.U." as well as an address.
Unfortunately, we can't do much with this yet. Commercial use of the service is costly and does not provide us with the data we are interested in. At a minimum, these would be: name, quantity, nutritional values of the food, and information on any allergens it may contain.
The first pantry app with product data: Crowdsourcing
When we launched the first pantry app in the App Store in 2013, there wasn't even a barcode scanner - and accordingly, no product data was stored.
Each user had to enter their items manually, which was quite laborious. In December 2015, the time had finally come: We created a product database for the pantry, with which users still had to enter food items, but these were then shared among all users! This way, at least common items were usually already in the database, and the recording of stock or shopping became much faster.
However, over time, weaknesses of the approach have become apparent:
Thus, there was only one field per article for the product name - even though the app was also used internationally. People then filled in the name sometimes in Swedish, sometimes in English, sometimes in German.
Although the app had storage locations, it seems that these were not sufficient for organizing items for some users. Thus, cryptic category names like "30 Juice", "31 UHT Milk" quickly emerged, which were only understandable to the respective user.
Some users have meticulously transferred all nutritional values - others have completely skipped this part. The level of detail of the products varied accordingly. Excerpt from the product database of the Pantry App, where product names have been entered by different users in various languages.
The current Pantry WebApp
Before we released our current WebApp for public beta in 2019, we spent a long time searching for the right model regarding the product database. We considered how we could improve the quality of the existing data.
Ultimately, we have actively decided to stop using our own product database and instead switch to the open model of OpenFoodFacts.org. Here too, product data is maintained by volunteer users and stored in a publicly accessible database. However, the project has several advantages, as we will see in the following section.
Products can be accessed directly from OpenFoodFacts and used for one's own purposes. The product data is licensed under the Open Database License - this ensures the data can be used for any purpose - as long as newly added product data is contributed back - thus the crowd-sourcing effect is ensured through the license.
A few facts about OpenFoodFacts
- OpenFoodFacts was founded in France in May 2012
- Meanwhile, there are 1,875,095 product data from all over the world listed with barcodes
Compared to our first database, OpenFoodFacts has a very extensive data schema. For instance, name fields are provided for any language.
Additionally, OpenFoodFacts allows for the uploading of photos of the product, the list of ingredients, and the nutritional value table. This enables automated machine quality control of the entered nutritional information, significantly improving the quality of the data.
Everything that can be found on OpenFoodFacts about the bag of Haribo from the example above can be found here.
Pantry App and OpenFoodFacts
Since October 7, 2019, we have been retrieving product data from OpenFoodFacts and, of course, also contributing back for the benefit of all users.
Since then, our users have created 10,184 articles from scratch and edited 20,441 articles, mostly to add missing attributes.
With this, our users have created 0.5% of all articles in the global database - that's an impressive sum, from which users in Germany benefit especially! A heartfelt thank you at this point for the careful entry of data, which will be very conveniently available to all future users.
Although it may happen that individual products are not found when scanning, we believe in the approach: A product database maintained by users is independent of the interests of food manufacturers, can be expanded as needed, and is unrestrictedly usable for all future purposes.
So if you come across an article that is not found, and you have to enter it yourself - think of the many users who will also scan the article, they will thank you for your product entry! 😊
New version in open beta: What’s inside Smantry V1.25.0
We are continuously working to make Smantry even clearer, more stable, and more helpful in everyday life. That’s why we’re excited to give you a look at the next version:
Version 1.25.0 is now available in open beta.
We’re currently checking the last remaining points – if everything looks good, the update will be released very soon for all users.
Here are the most important new features.
New settings area with profile overview
The settings have been revised and made clearer.
In the new profile sectionyou’ll now find all the key information about your account in one central place – from language settings and premium features to account settings.
This way you can more quickly see which features are enabled and manage your settings more easily.
Blog preview directly on the dashboard
From now on, you’ll get the latest blog posts displayed directly in the dashboard.
This keeps you up to date on new features, updates, and tips related to Smantry at all times. The blog preview serves as a handy add-on and gives you a quick overview of news, helpful tips, and important posts about the app.
Articles are automatically merged when moved
A small but very helpful improvement:
When you move an item to another storage location and an identical item already exists there, the quantities are now merged automatically.
This ensures:
- more clarity
- fewer duplicate entries
- a cleaner inventory list
Simplified onboarding
New users in particular should be able to find their way around Smantry quickly. That’s why the onboarding process has been revised and simplified.
Getting started in the app is now even more clearly structured and guides you step by step through the most important features.
Improved email verification
We’ve also made some important improvements behind the scenes.
The email verification process has been optimized, so new accounts can be confirmed more reliably.
This ensures a more stable sign-up process and fewer issues during registration.
Additional bug fixes
In addition, various minor issues have been fixed, including the following:
- Account links
- Navigation within the app
Our goal is to make Smantry a bit more stable and pleasant with every update.
Now in open beta
Version 1.25.0 is already running in the open beta.
As soon as the final tests have been successfully completed, the update will be rolled out to all users shortly.
Many thanks to everyone in the community who regularly sends us feature requests, feedback, and bug reports. You’re helping us make Smantry better step by step. 💚
Smantry: Not perfect – but made with a lot of heart
Many of our users write to us that theyhave been looking for exactly this kind of app for a long time. At the same time, we also read reviews that say:“Good idea, but …”
And that’s exactly what we want to talk about openly today.
An app for everyday life – not for perfection
Smantry is designed to make everyday life easier: manage groceries, stay on top of things, waste less.
Your feedback shows us that this is already working well for many of you:
- Inputs are quick and straightforward
- The scanner reliably detects most products
- Editing and making changes is easy
- Our support is perceived as fast, friendly, and solution-oriented
We’re really glad to hear that – because that’s exactly what we’re building Smantry for.
Why some things are (still) not perfect
What you often don’t see from the outside: Smantry is developed by a very small team.
Right now we are 5 people, and none of us works full-time on the app. We do this alongside other projects, jobs, and commitments – with a lot of passion, but limited resources.
That doesn’t explain everything, but it provides context:
- Some functions take longer
- Technical issues (e.g. with premium activations) unfortunately happen sometimes
- Not every idea can be implemented right away
Frequently asked questions from your reviews
Why a subscription?
The subscription allows us to cover server costs, ongoing development, updates, and support in the first place. Without continuous revenue, Smantry would not be able to exist in the long term.
"Why isn’t the bug I reported being fixed?"
Sometimes there are several bugs at the same time and we have to prioritize the ones that affect core functions. That can mean that a different bug gets fixed first. We always try to resolve everything quickly – but unfortunately we can only do it step by step.
Why doesn’t Premium sometimes work right away?
Subscriptions are managed through the app stores. In rare cases, synchronization issues can occur. That’s annoying, but not intentional – our support team will always help you with this personally.
Where we want to go
Smantry is meant to get better – not just on paper, but in real everyday life.
This includes:
- more features from the web app
- better stability
- more flexibility with categories
- clearer communication
Your feedback plays a central role in this.
In conclusion
We’re not a corporation.
We’re a small team that believes in a good idea and is putting it into practice step by step.
If Smantry is helping you – even if everything isn’t perfect yet – we really appreciate your trust, your feedback, and of course a fair rating in the App Store 💛
Thank you for being part of this development.
Power outage in Berlin: Why preparation and prepping are more important today than ever
An unexpected power outage in Berlin has recently shown how quickly our daily life can become unbalanced. Traffic lights went out, card payments stopped working, and many households were suddenly without light, internet, or cooking facilities. Such events highlight: emergency preparedness and prepping are not about spreading panic, but rather a sensible and responsible preparation for real risks.
Power Outage – A Real Risk for Major Cities
Whether it's technical malfunctions, construction work, or extreme weather conditions: A Blackout or regional power outage can occur at any time. Especially in large cities like Berlin, the effects are immediately noticeable. Without electricity, many basic systems no longer function – from supermarkets to ATMs to communication.
The most important question is:
Am I prepared for this?
Prepping: Preparedness instead of fear
Prepping does not mean preparing for apocalyptic scenarios. Rather, it's about everyday readiness:
- remain capable of acting
- be able to provide for the family
- Reduce stress and uncertainty
- not be immediately dependent on external help
The power outage in Berlin demonstrates: Just a few hours without electricity can cause major problems.
Stockpiling food as a key to emergency preparedness
A well-thought-out food supply is the foundation of any emergency preparedness. Experts recommend having supplies for at least 7 to 14 days. These include:
- non-perishable food items such as rice, pasta, canned goods
- Drinking water
- long shelf-life snacks
- Baby food or special diet
- off-grid cooking options (e.g., gas stoves)
Yet many households quickly lose track: What's available? What's missing? What's about to expire?
Digital preparation with the Smantry App
Here comes the Smantry App into play – your digital companion for prepping, preparation, and stockpiling. The app helps you to plan your supplies in a structured way and to keep track at all times.
With the Smantry App you can:
- Easily capture food supplies digitally
- Define minimum quantities for emergencies
- Monitor expiration dates and prevent food waste
- prepare specifically for power outages, blackouts, and crises
- Integrating prepping step by step into daily life
This makes emergency preparedness simple, transparent, and efficient.
Prepare now instead of improvising later:
👉 Download the Smantry App and start your digital emergency preparedness today.
Power outage in Berlin as a wake-up call
The power outage in Berlin was an eye-opener for many people. It demonstrates how quickly familiar structures can collapse – and how important it is to be prepared. Those who take precautions in time remain calm, safe, and independent.
Conclusion: Take precautions now instead of reacting later
Power outages, supply shortages, and crises are part of the reality of our time. With a well-thought-out food stockpiling and digital tools like the Smantry App you can make your emergency preparedness simple and effective.
👉 Start your preparation now
Download the Smantry App and gradually build up your personal emergency preparedness – before the next power outage occurs.
Discover the app now and be prepared.
🍂 Cozy Autumn Leftover Cooking – Comfort dishes made from what's available
When the rain taps on the window and the tea cup becomes a permanent guest, the most beautiful kitchen time of the year begins: autumn. And what could be a better match than stylish leftover cooking – dishes that are not only sustainable but also truly exciting.
Autumn leftover cooking means: use instead of waste, but with a touch of sophistication. Here are some more unusual ideas to turn leftovers into small culinary highlights.
🧀 1. Pumpkin Gnocchi from leftover roasted vegetables
Do you have some leftover roasted pumpkin or sweet potato from the day before? Perfect!
Mash the vegetables, mix them with some flour, salt, and grated Parmesan, shape them into small gnocchi, and briefly cook them in salted water until they float to the surface. Then toss them in sage butter and top with chopped walnuts.
→ Tastes like Italy, looks like fine dining – and it's all made from leftovers!
🥖 2. Rustic bread salad with grapes and goat cheese
Tear stale bread into pieces, toast in olive oil until golden brown.
Add a few grapes (wrinkled ones are especially sweet), arugula or lamb's lettuce, crumbled goat cheese, and roasted hazelnuts. Mix with a dressing of balsamic vinegar, honey, and mustard.
→ A fall twist on the classic Panzanella – sweet, salty, crunchy, perfect!
🧅 3. French onion tart with leftover vegetables and puff pastry
Got some leftover puff pastry in the fridge? Make a tart out of it!
Caramelize onions in butter, add some leftover vegetables (e.g., leeks, mushrooms, or spinach). Spread on the pastry, top with a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese, and bake until golden brown.
→ Wonderfully aromatic, especially with thyme or rosemary.
🍎 4. Apple Sourdough French Toast with Vanilla Rum Butter
A piece of stale sourdough bread is soaked in a mixture of milk, egg, vanilla, and a dash of rum, fried in a pan, and served with fried apple slices and a rum butter.
→ Luxurious, yet made entirely from leftovers – perfect for a Sunday breakfast in pajamas.
🥬 5. Risotto made from leftover vegetables with lemon and herb oil
Chop the vegetable scraps finely and cook with a handful of rice into a creamy risotto.
A dash of lemon juice and some leftover herbs (parsley, basil, arugula) blended with oil make a fresh herb oil as a topping.
→ The acidity of the lemon beautifully enhances the earthy autumnal notes.
☕️ Bonus Tip: Using leftovers in a dessert glass
A few spoons of leftover compote?
Some leftover cake or cookies?
Layer it all with yogurt or mascarpone in a glass – and you have an autumnal "trifle" that looks like it came straight from a café in Copenhagen.
🍁 Conclusion
Autumnal leftover cooking is not a last resort, but a playground for creativity. When you look at ingredients with open eyes – not as leftovers, but as opportunities – small, exquisite dishes full of soul and flavor emerge.