Our Independence, Integrity & Commercial Disclosure

The Real Food Rating® is founded on independence, transparency, and evidence-based evaluation. Our mission is to empower families through honest information — not marketing influence. We take a precautionary approach to nutrition and health.

We do not accept payments, gifts, or incentives in exchange for favourable reviews, higher rankings, or altered ratings within the Real Food Rating system.
 All product ratings are determined solely by our proprietary algorithm, which evaluates ingredient quality, additive load, level of processing, and alignment with whole-food principles.

However, brands may apply for Real Food Certification, a separate and clearly identified fee-for-service programme.
 Certification fees cover the cost of scientific evaluation, criteria assessment, and licensing of the Real Food Certified™ badge — not preferential treatment or influence over ratings.

Certified products must:
 • Meet strict, non-negotiable criteria based on ingredient quality, additive load and processing level;

 • Undergo independent review by the Real Food Rating team; and

 • Be displayed in a distinct, clearly marked “Real Food Certified” section within the App.

Certification involves a 12-month licensing agreement with Real Food Rating Pty Ltd.
 Certified brands may also purchase optional paid services — such as sponsored recipes, promotional content, or social-media partnerships — which are clearly disclosed as sponsored or paid partnerships in accordance with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL), ACCC Endorsement Guidelines, and the AANA Code of Ethics.

These commercial arrangements never influence or alter product ratings, which remain fully independent and algorithm-based.

Regardless of any consultancy work, partnerships, or brand affiliations held by Mandy Sacher or team members, all editorial content and product evaluations remain objective, evidence-based, and impartial.

No Endorsement of Brands: Inclusion of a product or brand within the App — whether certified or not — does not constitute endorsement, approval, or partnership beyond the disclosures described above.

Quality Threshold for Commercial Relationships

We only engage in commercial partnerships, certifications, or endorsements with brands that achieve a Real Food Rating of 4 or above (out of 5).
 This ensures that any certified or endorsed product already meets high nutritional standards, independent of payment.

If a certified product is reformulated and falls below a 4-rating, Real Food Rating Pty Ltd may terminate the certification agreement.

Paid Placement in Recipe Ingredients

When recipes within the App feature specific brand recommendations, paying Real Food Certified brands may be shown first in ingredient lists or product suggestions.

Disclosures:

• Only brands with a Real Food Rating of 4 or above (out of 5) are eligible for recipe placement.
• Sponsored recipes and paid placements are clearly labelled within the App itself — using visible indicators such as “Sponsored Recipe,” “Featured Brand,” or badge icons on the recipe or ingredient list.
• Non-paying brands with equivalent or higher ratings are also displayed as alternatives.
• Recipe placement affects visibility only and does not alter the product’s rating or evaluation outcome.

This paid-placement model helps keep the App accessible while ensuring all featured products meet high nutritional standards.

Additional Services & Sponsored Content

Certified brands may purchase additional promotional services, including:

• Sponsored recipes within the App or on our website
• Social-media posts (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook)
• Website features, blog articles, or brand collaborations
• Marketing support or promotional opportunities

How we disclose sponsored content:

• In-App: Sponsored recipes include visible labels such as “Sponsored Recipe,” “Featured Brand,” or badge indicators
• Social Media: Posts include #ad, #sponsored, or platform “Paid Partnership” disclosure tools
• Website: Blog posts include clear disclosure statements at the beginning (e.g., “This post is sponsored by [Brand]”)

All such content is clearly disclosed as sponsored in compliance with the Australian Consumer Law, ACCC Endorsement Guidelines, and the AANA Code of Ethics.

Revenue Model Transparency

Real Food Rating generates revenue through:

• App subscriptions
• Real Food Certification licensing (12-month agreements)
• Optional paid promotional services

None of these revenue sources influences our algorithm, product evaluations, or core ratings.
 Sponsored content and certified listings are always separated from unbiased ratings and reviews.

About the Real Food Rating App

The App uses barcode-scanning technology to provide instant product ratings and nutrition information.

Ratings are generated through an automated assessment system based on:
 • Publicly available ingredient lists
 • Nutrition information panels
 • Product databases and manufacturer disclosures
 • Our proprietary Real Food Rating methodology

The App does not:
 • Test products in a laboratory
 • Analyse the physical product you are holding
 • Verify ingredients in real time
 • Guarantee that every product variation or reformulation is captured instantly

Important Limitations & Scanning Accuracy

While we strive for accuracy, barcode scanning technology has limitations:
 • Database Coverage: Not every product is in our database; new or regional items may be missing or outdated.
 • Barcode Recognition: Lighting, camera quality, and barcode condition affect results.
 • Product Variations: A single barcode may cover different sizes or formulations — always verify the product matches what you hold.
 • Reformulations: Manufacturers may change ingredients without changing barcodes.

Always check the physical product label before purchasing, especially if you have allergies, intolerances, or special dietary requirements.

Data Accuracy & External Information

We rely on ingredient lists and nutrition panels provided by manufacturers, third-party databases, and public sources.
 We cannot guarantee that all external data is accurate, complete, or current.
 Manufacturers may change formulations without notice or make labelling errors.
 If you notice an error, please report it to support@realfoodrating.com.

Our Ratings System

The Real Food Rating system ranks products across five categories — Best, Good, Okay, Limit, and Avoid — to reflect how well a product aligns with our real-food standards.

Our ratings ARE: Independent, research-based, and designed for general guidance.
 Our ratings are NOT: Medical advice or endorsement.

Health & Nutrition Disclaimers

Information in this App is for general educational purposes only. We take a precautionary stance when reviewing products and additive load. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult qualified health professionals for personalised advice.

Critical: Allergies & Food Safety

Always read ingredient labels, review “may contain” statements, and contact manufacturers directly if you have allergies. Cross-contamination and regional differences may occur.

Evolving Science & Methodology

Scientific knowledge changes. Our criteria and methodology may evolve accordingly.

App Functionality & Technical Limitations

The App is provided “as is” without warranties of any kind. We do not guarantee uninterrupted or error-free operation.

Australian Consumer Law Guarantees

Our services come with guarantees that cannot be excluded under the Australian Consumer Law. Nothing here limits those rights.

Limitation of Liability

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Real Food Rating Pty Ltd, Mandy Sacher, and team members shall not be liable for any damages arising from the use or reliance on the App.

Intellectual Property

All content, data, algorithms, designs, and trademarks are owned by Real Food Rating Pty Ltd. You may not reproduce or reverse-engineer any part without permission.

Contact Us

If you notice errors or have questions:
 • In-App contact form
 • Email: support@realfoodrating.com
 • Website: https://www.realfoodrating.com