How the Gap Map Works
The gap map is a visual representation of your recipe's nutrient status. It displays each tracked nutrient in a card grid, categorized by whether the nutrient needs attention, exceeds safe limits, or is adequately covered. Each card can be tapped for coaching on how to address gaps or reduce excesses.
How It Works
- 1
Coverage Is Calculated Per Nutrient
Each nutrient's coverage percentage is computed independently by comparing recipe content against NRC requirements scaled to your dog's energy needs.
- 2
Nutrients Are Categorized
Each nutrient is placed into one of three categories: Actionable (below 100%), Covered (100% or above within safe limits), or Excessive (above Safe Upper Limit).
- 3
Summary Bar Shows Counts
The top of the gap map shows how many nutrients fall into each category, giving you an at-a-glance view of recipe completeness.
- 4
Tap for Coaching
Each nutrient card can be tapped to open a coaching modal that explains why the gap exists and suggests ingredients that can help address it.
Nutrient Categories
| Category | Coverage | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Actionable | < 100% | Below minimum requirement - tap for coaching |
| Covered | ≥ 100% and ≤ SUL | Requirement met within safe limits |
| Excessive | > SUL | Exceeds Safe Upper Limit - may need reduction |
SUL = Safe Upper Limit as defined by NRC 2006. Not all nutrients have established SULs.
Why This Exists
Nutrient tables with dozens of rows are difficult to scan quickly. The gap map provides a visual summary that highlights nutrients needing attention. A recipe with all covered nutrients is likely complete; actionable nutrients need ingredient adjustments or supplementation; excessive nutrients may need reduction. The categorized format allows assessment in seconds rather than minutes.
Common Misinterpretations
"All actionable nutrients are equally urgent"
A nutrient at 95% coverage is less concerning than one at 20%. The coaching modal provides context about whether the gap is significant or a data limitation.
"Actionable means dangerous"
Actionable indicates below 100% coverage for that meal. Balance is assessed over time - a single meal with gaps isn't harmful if other meals compensate.
"Covered nutrients need no attention"
Covered means ≥100% and within SUL. Very high percentages (like 500%+) for nutrients with toxicity thresholds may warrant review, especially for vitamin A, vitamin D, and copper.