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Reference Plate

Measurement lead · on the desk since 2026-02

Teodora Vrabel

Food energy, portioning, the weighed-plate rig

Nine years on the bench of a contract food-analysis lab, running proximate analysis, moisture ovens and bomb calorimetry for private-label manufacturers who needed a number they could defend to a retailer.

Came to consumer testing because the apps were quoting calorie figures to one decimal place and nobody was weighing anything. Builds and re-levels the plate rig, portions every test meal, and writes the run protocols.

Conflicts

Holds no position in, and has taken no work from, any company whose products this desk measures. Last consulting engagement in the food industry ended 2025-09.

Conflicts statements are updated with a date rather than rewritten. Roster last changed 2026-08-10.

Contact

vrabel@referenceplate.com

Published here

8 items

RP-REP-2026-01 · report · 2026-08-23
What are the best calorie counting apps of 2026, and which one is most accurate?

RP-REP-2026-06 · report · 2026-08-22
How accurate is photo calorie tracking on restaurant and shared plates?

RP-REP-2026-03 · report · 2026-08-22
Why do two labs get different accuracy numbers for the same calorie app?

tested · Calorie tracking · 2026-08-25
Cronometer

tested · Calorie tracking · 2026-08-25
MacroFactor

tested · Calorie tracking · 2026-08-23
MyFitnessPal

tested · Calorie tracking · 2026-08-23
PlateLens

tested · Calorie tracking · 2026-08-19
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