GroceryGretScanning the fridge before a grocery run
Updated October 2026
We've all done it. Keys in hand, standing in front of the open fridge, trying to figure out what we're out of. Then you get to the store and realize you forgot the one thing you went for. The fridge scan is built for that moment.
What it does
You take a photo of your fridge, and GroceryGret compares what it sees with what your family usually keeps. Then it shows what looks low or missing, and you add what you need to the list with a tap. In our house, that means it catches when the Brussels sprouts are gone or we're down to the last pack of tortillas, even if nobody remembered to mark it.
Two kinds of scans
Kitchen scan is the setup. Take photos of your fridge, freezer and pantry (up to six), and GroceryGret learns what your family normally has on hand. You do this once, when you're getting started.
Scan fridge is the quick one you use before a trip. One photo, a few seconds, and you see what's running low.
- Open Scan fridge. On the List tab, tap the fridge button at the top left.
- Take the photo. Open the door all the way, turn on the light and step back so whole shelves are in the picture.
- Check what it found. Anything marked as a best guess can be tapped and fixed. Remove anything you don't need.
- Add to your list. What you need goes on your family's list, right next to whatever your family already added.
When it helps most
The fridge scan works best alongside your staples list, not instead of it. Your family marks things as they run out during the week, and the scan is a last check before you leave. Between the two, it's hard to miss anything.
Fridge scanning is part of GroceryGret Plus. It's free for everyone during the beta. For the step-by-step version, see how to scan your fridge.
Try it
GroceryGret is free and in beta testing on iPhone. Join the beta and you'll get the install link right away. More guides: all how-to guides.