Finding an empty shelf is annoying, but forgetting you still need that item is worse. PlateParrot lets you mark specific items as “Not Available” instead of checking them off. They stay on your list, highlighted, so you remember to try another store or buy them next time.
The “I Thought I Bought That” Trap
You are in the supermarket, looking for fresh basil. The shelf is empty. In most apps, you have two bad choices:
- Leave it unchecked: It gets lost in the long list of things you still need to find in this store, making you check the empty shelf three times.
- Delete it: You tell yourself “I’ll remember to go to the other shop later.” But life happens, you forget, and you start cooking dinner without basil.
The mental load of tracking “things I need but couldn’t buy right now” is a major cause of ruined meals.
A Dedicated Status for “Nope”
PlateParrot adds a third option: Mark as Not Available.
When you swipe on an item (or tap the menu), you can flag it as unavailable. The item doesn’t disappear. Instead, it changes its look—maybe it gets dimmed or tagged with a specific icon.
It signals to your brain: “Done with this store, but NOT done with this task.” When you finish shopping and look at your list, these items stand out. You see exactly what’s missing before you drive home, giving you the chance to stop at the corner store.
How It Works
It’s a simple toggle during your shop.
- See an empty shelf?
- Swipe the item and tap “Not Available”.
- The item stays on your list but is visually distinguished from the “To Buy” items.
Smart Persistence: Even if you change your meal plan (e.g., increase portions for the Pasta from 4 to 6 people), this item updates its quantity but keeps the “Not Available” tag. The app knows you still need it, even if the amount changed.
FAQ
Does it remind me next time?
The item stays on your active list until you either buy it or delete it. It won’t disappear when you close the app.
What if I decide to skip it entirely?
You can just delete the item from the list if you decide to cook without it.
Does it affect the recipe?
No. Your original recipe remains untouched. This is just a status for your current shopping trip.
