Download the Pantry Scanner App!
Your pantry can quickly become out-of-sight, out-of-mind. How many rice-a-roni’s do you have left? Is there an extra can of tomato soup on the shelf in the basement? This app can help you track that information and quickly create shopping lists.
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On the main search page, tap the “plus” icon in the upper right to scan a barcode. If the barcode fails to scan properly (or you don’t allow camera access), you can still use the “Manual Entry” button to add a new item.
On the new item page, you can edit the item name, count, location or store by tapping on their rows. When you tap the count, you will be taken to a special add/remove page. Just like using a standard inventory scanner gun, only enter the number of items you are adding or removing at that time, then choose “ADD” or “RMV”.
The location indicates where you stored the item (so you can tell your family members where to find it), and the store is where you originally bought it (so you can buy it again). You can choose an existing location/store by tapping it in the selection wheel, or tap “Add New” to add a new location to the wheel.
In the “Shopping Lists” tab, you can create and send shopping lists for individual stores. Select the store from the list, then click on the checkbox next to each item you need to buy. Tap the “send to” icon in the upper right (box with an arrow) to send it via Messaging, Email, or even print it out via AirPrint.
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If you have trouble scanning an item, please make sure it is a standard two-dimensional barcode with a small digit at either end. The iPhone and iPad cameras can be very tricky in low light, so please make sure you are in a well-lit area. You should also beware of glare on the barcode if it is printed on shiny plastic or metal. Hold the barcode upright in front of the camera and allow it a moment to focus. If you’re still having trouble, use the “manual entry” option as described above.
If you have multiple devices (or think you might), I strongly recommend using the iCloud option from the start. This will allow you to share the same data between your devices, and use either device to scan in new items or create shopping lists.
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If you have additional questions, please feel free to ask in the comments section below!