Terms of Service
Last updated
Welcome to TheFlavourLink (“we”, “our”, “us”). TheFlavourLink provides an online software marketplace platform accessible via our web application and mobile applications (the “Platform”) that connects local independent home cooks (“Sellers” / “Home Chefs”) with local customers (“Buyers”) seeking authentic, home-cooked food. By accessing or using the Platform, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these Terms, you may not use the Platform.
- Nature of the Platform (Intermediary Software Marketplace)
- TheFlavourLink is a technology provider, not a restaurant, takeaway, food producer, or catering business.
- The contract for the supply and sale of food is made strictly and directly between the Buyer and the Seller. TheFlavourLink is not a party to any contract for the purchase of food made through the Platform.
- TheFlavourLink does not prepare, store, inspect, or handle any food products sold on the Platform. Sellers operate as independent Food Business Operators (FBOs) under UK law.
- User Accounts & Verification
- Both Buyers and Sellers must create an account to use the Platform. You must provide accurate, current, and complete information.
- Sellers must complete TheFlavourLink’s verification protocol prior to listing food items, which includes submitting proof of Local Authority Food Business Registration and a valid Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.
- Account credentials must be kept secure. You are solely responsible for all activities conducted under your account.
- Ordering, Collection & Delivery
- Ordering: Buyers may place real-time impulse orders or pre-orders/tiffin subscriptions via the Platform.
- Self-Collection (Default): * Upon placing a collection order, the Buyer receives a unique 4-digit Pickup PIN.
o The Buyer must present this 4-digit PIN to the Seller at the time of doorstep or hub pickup. o Once the Seller enters the correct 4-digit PIN into the Platform, physical handover is verified, and payment is released from escrow.
- Delivery via Third-Party Couriers: Where doorstep delivery is selected, delivery services are fulfilled by third-party delivery partners (e.g., Uber Direct, Stuart). Delivery fees are clearly displayed at checkout.
- Pricing, Payments & Platform Fees
- All prices are displayed in British Pounds (£ GBP).
- Payment processing is securely handled by Stripe Connect.
- Platform Fee: TheFlavourLink charges Sellers a marketplace platform fee for facilitating the transaction, software maintenance, payment processing, and customer support.
- Funds are held securely in escrow until successful 4-digit PIN verification or delivery completion.
- Food Allergens & Dietary Information
- Mandatory Declaration: Sellers are legally required to declare all applicable ingredients and any of the 14 major UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) allergens (including Gluten, Dairy, Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Mustard, Sesame, Eggs, Crustaceans, Fish, Soy, Celery, Lupin, Molluscs, Sulphites) for every dish listed.
- Buyer Responsibility: Buyers with severe food allergies or specific dietary restrictions must carefully review the mandatory allergen tags on dish listings before placing an order. If in doubt, Buyers should refrain from ordering.
- Cross-Contamination Disclaimer: While Sellers are instructed on food safety, home kitchens handle multiple ingredients. Neither TheFlavourLink nor the Seller can guarantee an environment 100% free from trace allergens.
- Cancellation, Disputes & Refund Policy
- Perishable Goods Exemption: In accordance with the UK Consumer Contracts Regulations 2015 and Consumer Rights Act 2015, fresh and hot home-cooked meals are classified as perishable goods and are exempt from standard statutory withdrawal rights or "change-of-mind" cancellations.
- Eligible Refunds: Refunds will only be considered under the following strict conditions:
o Non-Delivery: The order was not fulfilled or the 4-digit PIN was never entered. o Missing / Wrong Items: Items ordered were demonstrably missing or incorrect. o Damaged / Unsafe Food: Food arrived severely spilled, damaged, or spoiled.
- Dispute Procedure: * The Buyer must submit a dispute claim via the app within 30 minutes of collection/delivery along with clear photograph evidence of the issue.
o Claims based on subjective taste preference (e.g., "too spicy", "needs more salt") are non-refundable.
- Limitation of Liability & Indemnity
- To the maximum extent permitted by UK law, TheFlavourLink shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from food consumption, foodborne illness, seller misrepresentation, or service interruptions.
- Users agree to indemnify and hold harmless TheFlavourLink, its directors, employees, and agents from any claims, losses, liabilities, or legal expenses arising from their breach of these Terms or violation of applicable food safety regulations.
- Governing Law
These Terms are governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.
