Last updated: March 29, 2026
CookStache ("we," "our," or "the app") is a free mobile application for backyard grillers and griddle cooks. This privacy policy explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have.
By using CookStache, you agree to the practices described in this policy. If you do not agree, please do not use the app.
Account information. When you create an account, we collect your name, email address, and profile photo from your sign-in provider (Google or Apple). If you sign up with email and password, we collect the email address you provide. Apple's "Hide My Email" relay addresses are accepted and treated the same as any other email.
Content you create. We store the data you enter into the app, including your stache items (sauces, rubs, seasonings, meats, wood), cook logs, recipes, equipment, shopping list items, photos you upload, ratings, and notes. This data is stored in your personal account and is not visible to other users unless you explicitly share a cook.
Photos. When you use the AI scan feature, the photo you take is sent to Google's Gemini AI service for product identification. Photos of your cooks and stache items are stored in Firebase Storage under your account.
Usage data. We use Google Analytics for Firebase to collect information about how you use the app, including which screens you visit, which features you use, how often you open the app, and your general engagement patterns. This data is collected using the Firebase SDK and may include your device type, operating system, and general location (city or region level, not precise location). We do not collect precise GPS location data.
Advertising identifiers. We collect your device's advertising identifier (IDFA on iOS, Advertising ID on Android) for analytics purposes and to support future advertising features. You can reset or disable your advertising identifier through your device settings at any time.
Crash and performance data. We use Firebase Crashlytics and Sentry to collect crash reports, error logs, and stack traces. This helps us identify and fix bugs. Crash reports may include your device type, OS version, and the sequence of actions that led to the error.
CookStache uses the following third-party services that may receive your data:
We do not sell your personal information to anyone. We do not share your personal information with third parties for their marketing purposes.
We share data with the third-party service providers listed above solely to provide the app's features. We may share anonymized, aggregated data (such as "40% of users cook brisket most often") in the future for brand partnership purposes — this data can never be used to identify individual users.
We may disclose your information if required by law, such as in response to a court order or legal process.
When you share a cook, a public link is created that anyone with the link can view. Shared cooks display the cook title, photo, method, and details you included. Shared cooks include a "Made with CookStache" watermark. You can delete shared cooks at any time from within the app.
Your data is stored on Google Firebase servers in the United States. All data is transmitted over encrypted connections (HTTPS/TLS). Access to your personal data is restricted to your authenticated account through Firebase security rules — other users cannot access your stache, cooks, or shopping list.
While we take reasonable measures to protect your data, no method of electronic storage is 100% secure. We cannot guarantee absolute security.
Your data is retained as long as your account is active. You can delete your account from the Settings screen within the app. When you request account deletion:
CookStache is not directed at children under the age of 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13. If we become aware that we have collected data from a child under 13, we will delete it promptly. If you believe your child has provided us with personal information, please contact us.
We may update this privacy policy from time to time. We will notify you of significant changes by posting the updated policy in the app or on our website. The "Last updated" date at the top of this policy indicates when it was last revised. Your continued use of the app after changes are posted constitutes your acceptance of the revised policy.
If you have questions about this privacy policy or your data, contact us at:
Email: privacy@cookstache.com
CookStache
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