At a Glance
- WiseCode can scan over 700,000 foods via barcode or photo.
- It assigns a WiseScore from 1 to 100, labeled Poor to Excellent.
- The platform relies on AI and a proprietary WiseData Food Database.
- Why it matters: It gives shoppers a quick, science-backed view of ingredient quality and nutrition.
Caleb R. Anderson spent months searching for additive-free foods and discovered WiseCode, a free AI-driven platform that aims to save time and educate shoppers.
How WiseCode Works
WiseCode uses its FoodTechAI tool to examine 15 attributes across five levels of detail, from ingredient lists to lab-tested attributes. The UPF Code instantly flags a food’s level of processing.
Key Features
- Scan via barcode or smartphone photo
- 15 attributes evaluated for each product
- Five levels of detail: ingredients, additives, allergens, processing, nutrition
The WiseScore Rating
The WiseScore merges ingredient and nutritional quality into a single number. CEO Peter Castleman said:
> “Our AI lets us be deeply scientific without ever being overwhelming.”
The score ranges from 1 to 100 and is labeled Poor, OK, Fair, Good, or Excellent to simplify user interpretation.
Behind the AI
WiseCode builds its database from manufacturer-provided data, retailer barcode links, and public nutrition datasets. Dr. Richard Black explained the methodology:
> “We read ingredient lists the way a scientist would, but at the scale of hundreds of thousands of foods. Our AI has to recognize that there are more than one hundred ways to say ‘whole milk’ on a label, and map all of those back to one consistent ingredient.”
> “We use a Bayesian statistical algorithm to estimate how each ingredient contributes to the overall nutrition of a product when the label itself doesn’t disclose specific amounts. On top of that, we cross-check information from multiple sources, including USDA FoodData Central, retailers, and our own lab partners, and look for agreement across those sources.”
Using the App
- Install the WiseCode app on iOS or Android.
- Complete the onboarding questionnaire about your dietary goals.
- Tap Scan to capture a barcode or take three photos if the product isn’t in the database.
- Review ingredient quality, nutrient levels, additives, processing, and allergens.
- Decide what to avoid or embrace based on your personal needs.
- View the WiseScore for a quick overall rating.
- Compare similar products while shopping.
## Is It Right for You?
WiseCode’s thorough, customizable process provides clear, actionable outputs. However, it may not suit people with disordered eating or those who need professional guidance. Pregnant, breastfeeding, or individuals with specific dietary conditions should consult a healthcare professional before making major changes.
Key Takeaways
- WiseCode offers a free AI-driven scan of over 700k foods, giving a clear ingredient and nutrition snapshot.
- The WiseScore provides a single, easy-to-understand rating from Poor to Excellent.
- While useful for many shoppers, users with special health considerations should seek professional advice.
WiseCode promises to bring transparency to grocery aisles, helping consumers make smarter, science-based choices.
