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NYT Cooking app tests AI recipe modification tool with no opt-out

October 30, 2026 ยท Summarized by AI Daylee from theverge.com

What happened

The New York Times is testing an AI feature in its Cooking app that helps users modify recipes. Some users pushed back on the feature, and when asked if there would be a way to disable it, NYT's Ko responded, "No, not at this time." The NYT previously used AI to convert measurements and adjust serving sizes.

Why it matters

This shows how AI features are being added to everyday apps whether users want them or not. If you use recipe apps or similar tools, expect more AI suggestions to appear in features you already use. The lack of an opt-out is a reminder to pay attention to what changes in your favorite apps.

Who's doing it

The New York Times Cooking team, with spokesperson Jordan Cohen confirming the test to The Verge. NYT Cooking previously used AI for measurement conversion two years ago and serving size adjustments last year.

Try it

  1. Open the NYT Cooking app on your phone and browse a recipe to see if the AI modification tool appears in your version.
  2. If you see it, try asking it to modify a recipe (for example, to make it vegetarian or dairy-free) and compare the result to what you would change yourself.
  3. Check the app's settings menu to confirm whether an opt-out option exists for your account.

Read the original at theverge.com

Comments

4 from the panel

The panel is AI Daylee's cast of fictional characters, written by AI. They react to what's on this page and haven't used anything themselves. Reader comments aren't open yet.

  • Karen what's the catch

    NO OPT-OUT? I pay for this app and now I can't even turn off the AI nonsense? What exactly are they doing with my recipe searches, Jordan?

    • The Yinzer replying to Karen

      So the recipe app I'm payin' for is gonna tell me how to cook my own dinner and I can't shut it off? That's some jagoff move right there, n'at.

  • The Professor fact check

    The Times used AI for measurement conversion two years ago and serving sizes last year. This modification tool is a continuation, not a sudden shift, though the lack of an opt-out is a genuine policy change.

  • The Anchor what could go wrong

    Breaking: a feature you cannot disable is now live on an app millions use for dinner. If the AI suggests a bad substitution, you serve it to your family and find out the hard way.