Policies

1. Privacy Policy

1.1 Information We Collect

SmartMealSaver collects information to provide and improve our services:

• Account Information: Name, email address, dietary preferences, and budget information
• Usage Data: Search queries, meal selections, price comparisons, and app interactions
• Location Data: To provide location-based price comparisons and vendor recommendations
• Payment Information: Processed securely through third-party payment processors
• Device Information: Device type, operating system, and app version for technical support

1.2 How We Use Your Information

We use collected information to:

• Provide personalized meal recommendations and price comparisons
• Process transactions and facilitate Food Buddy connections
• Improve our AI algorithms and platform functionality
• Send important service updates and promotional communications (with your consent)
• Ensure platform security and prevent fraud
• Comply with legal obligations

1.3 Data Sharing

We share your information only in the following circumstances:

• With Vendors: Order details necessary to fulfill your purchases
• With Food Buddies: Basic profile information when you connect through the platform
• Service Providers: Third-party services that help us operate (payment processors, analytics, cloud hosting)
• Anonymized Data: Aggregated, anonymized data may be shared with partners for market research
• Legal Requirements: When required by law or to protect our rights

1.4 Data Security

We implement industry-standard security measures including encryption, secure servers, and regular security audits. However, no method of transmission over the internet is 100% secure.

1.5 Your Rights

Under GDPR and UK data protection laws, you have the right to:

• Access your personal data
• Correct inaccurate data
• Request deletion of your data
• Object to processing of your data
• Data portability
• Withdraw consent for marketing communications

To exercise these rights, contact us at privacy@smartmealsaver.com

1.6 Data Retention

We retain your data for as long as your account is active or as needed to provide services. After account deletion, we retain certain data for legal and business purposes for up to 7 years.

2. Cookie Policy

2.1 Types of Cookies

SmartMealSaver uses cookies and similar technologies:

• Essential Cookies: Required for platform functionality (login, preferences)
• Analytics Cookies: Help us understand how users interact with our platform
• Marketing Cookies: Used to deliver relevant advertisements (with your consent)
• Functional Cookies: Remember your preferences and settings

2.2 Cookie Management

You can control cookies through your browser settings. Note that disabling certain cookies may affect platform functionality.

3. Refund and Cancellation Policy

3.1 Order Cancellations

Order cancellation policies vary by vendor. Generally:

• Orders can be cancelled within 15 minutes of placement without charge
• After 15 minutes, cancellation is subject to vendor policies
• Prepared orders typically cannot be cancelled

3.2 Refunds

Refund requests are handled on a case-by-case basis:

• Quality issues or incorrect orders: Full refund or replacement
• Cancelled orders: Refund processed within 5-10 business days
• Vendor-cancelled orders: Automatic full refund
• Refunds are processed to the original payment method

3.3 Disputes

If you're unsatisfied with a purchase, contact our support team within 48 hours of delivery. We'll work with you and the vendor to resolve the issue.

4. Vendor Policy

4.1 Vendor Requirements

Vendors must:

• Maintain valid food business licenses and certifications
• Comply with all food safety regulations
• Provide accurate product information and pricing
• Meet delivery time commitments
• Respond to customer inquiries within 24 hours

4.2 Vendor Standards

We maintain quality standards for vendors:

• Minimum 4.0 star rating to remain on platform
• Response rate of at least 90%
• On-time delivery rate of at least 85%
• Regular price updates (at least weekly)

4.3 Vendor Removal

Vendors may be removed for:

• Repeated quality complaints
• Consistent pricing inaccuracies
• Failure to meet delivery commitments
• Violation of food safety standards
• Breach of vendor agreement

5. Food Buddy Policy

5.1 User Conduct

When using the Food Buddy feature:

• Be respectful and communicate clearly with your Food Buddies
• Honor payment commitments and split costs fairly
• Report any inappropriate behavior immediately
• Respect dietary restrictions and preferences of others

5.2 Payment Splitting

SmartMealSaver facilitates payment splitting but is not responsible for disputes between Food Buddies. Users are responsible for their share of costs.

5.3 Safety

When meeting Food Buddies in person:

• Meet in public places
• Inform friends or family of your plans
• Trust your instincts and report any concerns
• SmartMealSaver is not liable for incidents during in-person meetups

6. AI Recommendations Policy

6.1 Algorithm Transparency

Our AI recommendations consider:

• Your stated preferences and dietary requirements
• Budget constraints
• Price comparisons across vendors
• Nutritional information (when available)
• Your past selections and ratings

6.2 Disclaimer

AI recommendations are suggestions only and do not constitute professional dietary, nutritional, or medical advice. Always consult healthcare professionals for specific dietary needs or medical conditions.

6.3 Data Usage for AI

Your usage data helps improve our AI algorithms. This data is anonymized and aggregated for algorithm training.

7. Pricing Accuracy Policy

7.1 Price Updates

We update prices regularly, but:

• Prices may change between comparison and purchase
• Final prices are determined by vendors at checkout
• Promotional prices may have limited availability
• Delivery fees are calculated at checkout

7.2 Price Guarantee

If a displayed price is significantly different from the checkout price (more than 10%), contact us for resolution. We'll work with the vendor to honor the displayed price or provide compensation.

8. Content Policy

8.1 User-Generated Content

Users may submit reviews, photos, and comments. By submitting content, you grant SmartMealSaver a license to use, modify, and display this content on our platform.

8.2 Prohibited Content

Users may not post:

• False or misleading information
• Offensive, discriminatory, or harmful content
• Spam or promotional content
• Copyrighted material without permission

9. Account Policy

9.1 Account Security

Users are responsible for:

• Maintaining account security and password confidentiality
• All activities under their account
• Notifying us immediately of unauthorized access

9.2 Account Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate accounts that violate our policies or Terms of Service.

10. Contact Us

For questions about our policies, please contact us:

• Privacy Questions: privacy@smartmealsaver.com
• General Inquiries: Use the Contact Us form on our website
• Vendor Support: vendors@smartmealsaver.com