SoloChef

Product Experience

Problem Space

Problem Statement  

Developing a user-friendly cooking tool aimed at individuals living alone to address common challenges such as food waste, overbuying, and lack of inspiration in meal preparation. 

Problem Background  

The challenge of cooking for individuals living alone is compounded by issues such as overbuying ingredients, difficulty in portion control, and lack of recipe inspiration, leading to food waste, increased reliance on takeout options, and higher spending on meal kits, ultimately resulting in financial strain, environmental impact, and health implications due to the consumption of less nutritious meals. Targeting: Adults living alone (aged 18 and above) who struggle with cooking for one person and seek support in meal planning, grocery shopping, and recipe selection.

Research Insights

Results from surveys and user interviews suggest key pain points include overbuying ingredients, portion control issues, lack of variety in meals, and reliance on takeout options.

Some responses from the survey includes: 

70% of respondents highlighting portion control bring and issue and the lack of inspirations when it comes to recipes.  

There was also a desire for support in meal planning, grocery shopping, and cooking healthier meals by 80% of survey respondents.

My user interview also identified 100% of similar challenges. 

The research highlights the common struggles those living alone face with cooking, and points to opportunities for technology to help address these challenges.

Landing on the Solution 

Based on my research, the solution to this problem is creating a digital platform designed to address the cooking  challenges faced by individuals living alone. It provides personalized solutions to streamline meal planning, grocery shopping, and recipe inspiration, ultimately promoting healthier, more sustainable, and cost-effective cooking practices. While I have an idea of how this solution will be enacted, I’m looking forward to working with a team to establish the “how” of the solution in the near future.