Terms of Service

Last updated: February 8, 2026 | Version 1.0

Welcome to ReciBuddy! These Terms of Service ("Terms") govern your use of the ReciBuddy mobile application (the "App") developed by Zachery Sogolow ("we," "us," or "our"). By downloading, installing, or using the App, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. Acceptance and Age Requirements

1.1 Agreement to Terms

By using ReciBuddy, you confirm that:

• You are at least 16 years old
• You have the legal capacity to enter into binding agreements
• You agree to comply with all applicable laws and regulations
• You understand this App contains AI-generated content

1.2 Minor Protection

If you are under 18 but at least 16 years old:

• You should have parental supervision when using AI features
• You will receive additional AI disclosure reminders as required by law
• Your parent or guardian may contact us to revoke your access

2. AI Features and Third-Party Services

2.1 OpenAI Integration

When you use AI features, your recipe content is processed by OpenAI. By using these features, you also agree to:

• OpenAI's Terms of Service - Available at https://openai.com/policies/row-terms-of-use/
• Data Processing: Your recipe content will be temporarily sent to OpenAI for processing
• No Training Use: Your content will not be used to train OpenAI's models
• Encrypted Transmission: All data is encrypted during transfer

2.2 AI Content Limitations

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMERS:

• Accuracy: AI-generated recipes, nutritional information, and cooking advice may be incorrect
• Allergen Safety: AI may miss critical allergen information - always verify ingredients yourself
• Food Safety: AI cannot guarantee food safety practices - use your judgment and knowledge
• Nutritional Data: AI-calculated nutrition information is estimated and may be significantly inaccurate
• Dietary Restrictions: Always verify AI suggestions against your specific dietary needs and restrictions

3. User Responsibilities and Prohibited Uses

3.1 Your Responsibilities

You agree to:

• Use the App only for personal, non-commercial recipe management
• Verify all AI-generated content before acting on it
• Take responsibility for your own food safety and dietary choices
• Not rely solely on AI for medical or nutritional advice
• Report any concerning AI-generated content to us

3.2 Prohibited Uses

You may NOT:

• Use the App for commercial recipe development without permission
• Attempt to reverse engineer or extract AI models
• Share content that violates OpenAI's usage policies
• Use the App to generate content that violates applicable laws
• Attempt to circumvent age verification or consent mechanisms

4. No Medical or Professional Advice

4.1 Not Medical Advice

ReciBuddy and its AI features do NOT provide medical advice. We specifically disclaim:

• Medical recommendations: No content should be used for medical diagnosis or treatment
• Nutritional therapy: No recipes or nutrition data constitute professional dietary advice
• Allergen safety: AI may miss critical allergen information
• Food safety: You are responsible for safe food handling and preparation

4.2 Consult Professionals

Always consult qualified professionals for:

• Medical conditions requiring dietary modifications
• Serious food allergies or sensitivities
• Nutritional planning for health conditions
• Food safety concerns

5. Intellectual Property and Content

5.1 Your Content

You retain ownership of recipes you create or input. By using AI features, you grant us permission to:

• Process your content through OpenAI's services
• Store content locally on your device
• Temporarily transmit content for AI processing

5.2 App and AI-Generated Content

ReciBuddy app, its design, and functionality are protected by intellectual property laws. AI-generated content is provided "as is" without warranty of accuracy or originality.

6. Privacy and Data Protection

Your privacy is important to us. Our data practices are governed by our Privacy Policy, which is incorporated into these Terms. Key points:

• Local Storage: Your recipes are stored locally on your device
• AI Processing: Recipe content is temporarily sent to OpenAI when you use AI features
• No Collection: We don't collect personal data or analytics
• Your Control: You can delete all data by deleting the app

7. Limitation of Liability

7.1 Disclaimer of Warranties

ReciBuddy is provided "AS IS" without warranties of any kind. We specifically disclaim:

• Accuracy: No warranty that AI content is accurate or complete
• Safety: No warranty that recipes are safe for your specific dietary needs
• Availability: No guarantee of uninterrupted service
• Functionality: No warranty that all features will work perfectly

7.2 Limitation of Damages

We shall not be liable for:

• Indirect, incidental, special, or consequential damages
• Loss of profits, data, or business opportunities
• Food poisoning, allergic reactions, or other health issues
• Damages from AI-generated content inaccuracies
• Any damages exceeding $100 USD in total

8. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold us harmless from claims arising from:

• Your violation of these Terms
• Your use of AI-generated content
• Food safety issues from following AI recommendations
• Any content you input into the App

9. App Store Terms

9.1 Apple App Store

If you download ReciBuddy from the Apple App Store, Apple's terms also apply:

• Apple is not responsible for the App or its content
• Apple has no obligation to provide support
• Any claims must be directed to us, not Apple
• Apple's usage rules apply to your use of the App

10. Termination

10.1 By You

You may stop using ReciBuddy at any time by deleting the App from your device.

10.2 By Us

We may terminate or suspend access to AI features if you violate these Terms or applicable laws.

11. California Law Compliance (SB 243)

ReciBuddy complies with California Senate Bill 243 regarding AI disclosure:

• Clear Disclosure: You will always know when you're interacting with AI
• User Choice: You can opt out of AI features
• Minor Protection: Additional disclosures for users under 18
• Crisis Resources: Available through support if needed

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the State of California, United States, without regard to conflict of law principles. Any disputes will be resolved in California courts.

13. Changes to Terms

We may update these Terms as needed. Significant changes will be communicated through:

• App Store update notifications
• In-app notifications
• Updated version number and last modified date

Continued use after changes constitutes acceptance of new Terms.

14. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found unenforceable, the remaining provisions will continue in effect.

15. Emergency and Crisis Resources

If you experience mental health crisis or concerns:

• Emergency: Call 911 (US) or your local emergency number
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988