Calculator inputs
Example data table
Sample inputs and an abbreviated output preview.
| Scenario | Adults | Kids | Style | Duration | Fuel | Key outputs |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backyard herbs + standard meal | 8 | 2 | Standard | 3h | Charcoal | Chicken + sausages, veg mix, buns, drinks, ice, fuel |
| Hearty gathering, larger grill | 16 | 4 | Hearty | 5h | Propane | More protein, extra sides, higher fuel and ice |
| Vegetarian-heavy menu | 10 | 0 | Light | 3h | Charcoal | Tofu + veggie patties, more produce, fewer buns |
Formula used
- Protein total (kg) = (Adults × rate) + (Kids × rate × 0.60).
- Meal style rate: Light 0.25, Standard 0.35, Hearty 0.45 (kg per adult).
- Vegetarian share shifts part of protein to plant options.
- Leftovers buffer multiplies food and drinks by (1 + buffer%).
- Fuel: Charcoal 0.60 × hours × grill factor; Propane 0.45 × hours × grill factor.
- Grill factor: Small 0.75, Medium 1.00, Large 1.25.
- Produce scales with style and is reduced if garden greens are available.
- Estimated cost sums (quantity in base units × unit price) for priced items.
How to use this calculator
- Enter adult and kid counts for your BBQ day.
- Select meal style to match appetite and menu.
- Choose proteins and adjust the split percentages.
- Add dietary percentages for vegetarian or gluten-free needs.
- Set cooking time, grill size, and fuel type.
- Tick garden boosts and pantry items you already have.
- Press Submit to view the list above the form.
- Download CSV for shopping, or PDF for printing.