Privacy Policy for PantryVault

Last updated: March 26, 2026

This Privacy Policy explains how PantryVault (“the app”, “we”, “us”, or “our”) collects, uses, and protects your information. By using PantryVault, you agree to the practices described below.

1. Information We Collect

1.1 Local-Only Mode

If you use PantryVault without enabling cloud syncing or OpenFoodFacts (OFF) contributions:

Your pantry items, categories, notes, and images remain on your device.
We collect anonymous analytics (see section 1.5) to help us improve the app, but this data is not linked to your personal identity or pantry content.

1.2 Cloud Sync (Shared Household Mode)

If you enable syncing, the app stores only the data necessary to provide the service:

Anonymous device/user ID
Pantry items and metadata
Item images you choose to sync

All synced data is stored in Google Firebase Firestore and Firebase Storage, encrypted at rest and in transit.

We do not collect personal identifiers such as your name, email, or phone number.

1.3 Image Uploads & Processing

When uploading images:

Images are processed locally on your device whenever possible.
If syncing is enabled, image links may be uploaded to Firebase Storage to allow sharing across household devices.
If contributing to OpenFoodFacts, images you submit will be transmitted directly to OFF’s servers and become public, governed by OFF’s licensing rules.

You control which images are uploaded and where.

1.4 OpenFoodFacts Contributions

If you choose to submit a product to OFF:

The images, product details, and barcode you submit are sent directly to OFF.
OFF processes and publishes this information under their own privacy policy.
Contributions may be public, permanent, and globally accessible.

PantryVault does not retain OFF-bound images beyond what is required for your local submission history.

1.5 Analytics & Usage Data

To improve PantryVault, we collect anonymous usage statistics.

What we collect: App launches, feature usage (e.g., "item added", "product scanned"), and basic device info (OS version).
How it works: We use a randomly generated anonymous device ID to distinguish unique devices.
Privacy: This data is not linked to your personal identity, household data, or specific pantry contents. It is strictly used to understand how the app is used and to fix bugs.
Storage: Analytics data is sent securely to our own private server (https://pantryvault.app) and is not shared with third-party advertising networks.

You can opt-out of analytics in the app settings.

2. How We Use Your Information

We use your data only to provide the following features:

Syncing your pantry across devices
Image storage when chosen by the user
Submitting images/product info to OFF (only when you choose to)
Analyzing anonymous usage patterns to improve app stability and features
Debugging and preventing abuse

We do not:

Sell your data
Use your data for advertising
Share your personal data with third parties besides our service providers (Firebase) and OFF (when chosen)

3. Sharing of Information

We share data only in these cases:

3.1 Service Providers

Google Firebase: Used for household syncing and image storage.
PantryVault.app: Our private server used for anonymous analytics and OpenFoodFacts proxying.
Apple App Store: Subscription purchases are processed entirely by Apple. PantryVault does not collect or store payment information. Apple's privacy policy governs payment data.

3.2 OpenFoodFacts

Only when you explicitly choose to submit a product.

Images
Product name/details
Barcode

OFF publishes this information publicly.

3.3 Legal Requirements

We may disclose information if required by law.

4. Data Retention

4.1 Local Mode

Data remains on your device until deleted.

4.2 Syncing Mode

Data remains stored in Firebase until:

You delete items or images
You delete your household
You request removal
The household becomes inactive for an extended period

4.3 OFF Contributions

Data submitted to OFF may be public and non-removable, per OFF’s licensing policies.

5. Security

We use industry-standard measures to protect your data:

Encrypted communication (HTTPS/TLS)
Firebase encrypted storage
Minimal data collection

However, no method of transmission or storage is completely secure.

6. Children’s Privacy

PantryVault is not intended for children under 13.
We do not knowingly collect data from children.
Contact us if you believe a child has submitted information.

7. Your Rights

You may request:

A copy of your synced data
Deletion of your synced data
Information about our privacy practices

Contact: team@pantryvault.app

OFF submissions follow OFF’s own data rules and may not be removable.

8. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy periodically.
Continued use of the app means you accept the updated policy.

9. Contact

For questions about this Privacy Policy:
📩 team@pantryvault.app