Units vs. Purchase Format
In tSpoonLab, it’s essential to clearly understand the difference between a product’s unit of measure and its supplier purchase format. Managing both correctly is key to maintaining accurate cost control and stock levels.
This article explains both concepts with examples — and you can also watch the video below for a full visual explanation.
What is the Unit of Measure?
The unit of measure is the standard reference used in tSpoonLab for working with ingredients in recipes, calculating costs, and managing stock — regardless of how suppliers sell the product.
To ensure consistent management, tSpoonLab uses:
Kilograms (kg) for solids
Liters (L) for liquids
Units (u) for single items (e.g., eggs, burger buns)
Bottles / Cans for beverages such as wine or soft drinks
The unit of measure defines how the product behaves inside the system — not how it’s purchased.
What is the Supplier Purchase Format?
The purchase format represents the minimum unit in which a supplier sells an item. It defines the physical presentation and size of the product when ordered from the supplier.
Examples:
A supplier may sell wine only in cases of 12 bottles, not individually.
Oil might be sold in 25L jerrycans, not by the liter.
Flour could come in 10kg sacks.
Some products, like vegetables or spices, can be purchased in variable quantities without a fixed format.
Multiple Purchase Formats for the Same Product
A single product in tSpoonLab can be linked to multiple suppliers, each with its own purchase format.
Example:
One supplier sells avocados in bulk by the kilogram,
Another offers 30kg baskets of avocados.
Even though the formats differ, both are linked to the same generic product in tSpoonLab and can be used interchangeably in recipes that require avocados.
Where to Check a Product’s Unit of Measure
To view a product’s unit of measure in tSpoonLab:
Go to the Product Profile.
The unit appears directly under the product title.
To edit it, click on the three dots in the product header.
Find the Unit section and update the unit of measure as needed.
Where to Check a Supplier’s Purchase Format
To view the purchase format linked to a supplier:
Open the Product Profile.
Go to the Suppliers section.
You’ll see a list of all suppliers that provide the product.
Click the red arrow next to each supplier to expand and view the detailed purchase format for that item.
This allows you to manage a single product with multiple purchase formats depending on the supplier.
📢 Note:
If you need help setting up purchase formats or units of measure, contact our support team via the chat icon in the bottom-right corner of your screen.