Is RecipeRadar Free and Open Source, and Under What License?

Updated

Yes. RecipeRadar is provided as free and open source software, and its code is released under the AGPLv3 license. According to the project's own description, the service is "provided as free and open source software so that you can inspect and modify the code." That means you can read the source, change it, and build on it, subject to the terms of the AGPLv3.

What "free and open source" means here

RecipeRadar describes itself as free (or "libre") software. The project states that the code to both the app and the service "should be made freely available for inspection and modification under the AGPLv3." The stated reason is that developing the project in the open, with the ability for users to inspect, modify, and collaborate on it, produces additional value for everyone involved.

So the freedom being described is about the source code and your ability to inspect and modify it — not a claim about pricing tiers or paid plans.

The license: AGPLv3

The relevant license is the GNU Affero General Public License, version 3 (AGPLv3). The project lists this as a leading principle: the code to the app and service should be freely available for inspection and modification under AGPLv3.

If you plan to modify and redistribute the software, or run a modified version as a network service, the AGPLv3's copyleft terms apply. This is the key practical condition to check before you build on it.

No proprietary dependencies

RecipeRadar also states that the app and service "should not rely on any proprietary software or development tools." This matters if your goal is to self-host, audit, or fork the project: the stated intent is that you are not blocked by closed-source components or proprietary toolchains.

Who runs it

RecipeRadar is registered as a Community Interest Company in the United Kingdom. The project says its goals are legally aligned with community benefit rather than maximizing shareholder profit. That is a governance detail, separate from the license, but it explains the project's stated priorities.

Practical takeaways

  • Can you view the code? Yes — it is made available for inspection.
  • Can you modify it? Yes, under AGPLv3.
  • What license applies? AGPLv3.
  • Are there proprietary dependencies? The project states it should not rely on any proprietary software or development tools.
  • Is it a commercial product? It is described as free and open source software from a UK Community Interest Company; the source does not describe pricing plans.

If your decision depends on redistribution or running a modified network service, read the AGPLv3 terms directly, since those obligations are what determine what you can do with a modified version.